The smart construction site is closer than you might think.

New-Technologies.com describes a component tracking system that integrates field sensors, portable computers, wireless communication and real-time kinematic global position equipment.

Individual objects scheduled for arrival on the construction site are tagged at the fabricators using bar codes or radio-frequency transponders (RFID). The encoded information is scanned directly into a portable computer and wirelessly relayed to a remote project database. A database query returns graphical representations (e.q. computer aided design (CAD) information, or virtual reality mark-up language (VRML) models of scanned objects and additional information as appropriate. These models, coupled with user-friendly web browsing software, guide field workers through the acquisition of key fiducial points using scanning devices integrated with GPS technology to determine an object's position and orientation. Pallets of materials can be more easily tracked; even permanent equipment like HVAC systems, pumps, motors, etc. can be tracked from their arrival on the site to installation. RFID tags attached to equipment could contain the complete maintenace history of the tool or device.

RFID will be used widely in the automated construction site. For example, it is estimated that for every one hundred workers in electrical contracting, the financial loss of small tools totals in the tens of thousands of dollars each year. Small tools are easily misplaced and lost, or are carried from the site accidentally (or stolen). Crew delays are common. RFID readers placed in tool sheds and at site gates can track portable tools.

A recent field test using tools was recently completed at the University of Kentucky. RFID tags were attached to a variety of expensive tools at four different construction sites; all of the tags performed very well. Even under harsh (cold temperatures) conditions, the RFID tags attached to the tools were able to transmit their unique ID numbers a minimum of five feet through a standard gang box made of steel. As you can see in this illustration, work crews seldom take the time to organize gang boxes; if all of the tools are tagged, a complete inventory of a box would take just a few seconds.

(From Smart Chips Newsletter)

The Global Positioning System (GPS) can be integrated with construction equipment, allowing operators of bulldozers, scrapers, graders and excavators to see real-time information while performing work. More efficient work leads to lowered fuel cost, less wear on equipment and labor savings (staking surveyors are often not required).

The Guardian has an interesting series of articles on the future this month; the following passage on the construction site of the future seems very similar to the Bruce Sterling passage quoted above:

"Even low-value items such as household bricks could be fitted with individual electronic identifiers, allowing an architect or surveyor to walk round a half-finished school or hospital and see an image of the building skeleton pop up instantly on their ultra-thin laptop."