Using Global Positioning System to Improve Materials-Locating Processes on Industrial Projects
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 132, Issue 7
Abstract
On-site materials-handling operations are error prone and the errors that occur significantly decrease construction productivity. New technologies and sensing devices can enhance materials-handling management practices on construction job sites. This paper describes a study that aimed to determine the potential benefits of the deployment of global positioning system (GPS) technology within the materials-locating processes on industrial projects. Its main goals were (1) to evaluate the technical feasibility and (2) to quantify the direct benefits in terms of process duration derived from the integration of GPS devices within pipe-locating processes. A field trial was conducted and its results indicated significant time savings. This study also analyzed additional potential benefits derived from the use of GPS in this scenario.
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Acknowledgments
The writers would like to thank the FIATECH Smart Chips project team, KBR, BP, Data Scan, Trimble, and GeoSpatial Innovations for their collaboration on this study. The writers also would like to express their gratitude to the Center for Construction Industry Studies for the financial support provided to the graduate student involved in this project.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 132 • Issue 7 • July 2006
Pages: 741 - 749
Copyright
© 2006 ASCE.
History
Received: Oct 11, 2004
Accepted: Oct 19, 2005
Published online: Jul 1, 2006
Published in print: Jul 2006
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