To realize the potential of wireless networks on construction sites. Personnel wit is using mobile devices to interface with wire less system. These devices will need to provide effective information storage and to display information in a format for visual reference in the field.
There are many different mobile devices available; the most popular are mobile phones. palmtops. personal digital assistants (PDAs). Hand-held computers, tablet PCs, notebook PCs, and wearable computers. They may be expanded with RFID readers, cellular capabilities, cameras, and GPS.
A palmtop or personal digital assistant (PDA) is a small computer that fits in the palm of a hand (see Figure 1). This device allows the user to store and retrieve addresses and phone numbers, maintain a calendar. and create to-do lists and notes.
Figure 1— Palmtop or Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)
More sophisticated PDAs can run word processing, spreadsheet, and industry-specific applications and also can provide phone, e-mail and Internet access. These hand-held computers offer much of the functionality of a laptop in a smaller package. They feature a full QWERTY style keyboard and a landscape display (see Figure 1). Typically PDAs will run on a Windows-based system and operate similarly to a desktop PC. Due to the keyboard, these are probably best suited for use where there is a stable platform available (e.g.. in a pickup buck).
Figure 2 - Hand-held Computer with Keyboard
A tablet PC is a computer that runs a full, desktop operating system, but utilizes an electronic pen rather than a keyboard for input. Tablet computers, like palmtops, generally require special operating systems that support handwriting recognition so that users can write on the screen or on a tablet instead of typing on a keyboard.
Figure 3 - Wearable Computer
A wearable computer is supported by a vest or belt in a way that allows the user different degrees of hands-free operation (see Figure 3). Display and data input may be through flat screens with touch pads or through head-mounted displays with integrated microphones and earphones for speech recognition. Head-mounted displays can be worn comfortably with hard hats and other protective gear.
Figure 4 – Digital Hard Hat
Figure 4 is an example is of a digital hard hat. It is designed to supply construction documentation in integrated text, images, sound, and video. For all of these mobile display devices to be effective on a construction site, they must be able to withstand harsh working environments.
Mobile display devices in combination with WLAN systems will give site personnel real-time access to the variety of documents and materials maintained on project supplier Internet sites. Wireless networks on construction sites will facilitate:
• Craft access to material status information. • Craft access and input to near-term planning information. • Real-time reporting of work progress status. • Expedited requests for design information and problem resolution. • Expedited management of change. • Wireless camera security systems.• Wireless sensors. • Tool and equipment status and location • Craft access to project drawings and specifications (see Figure 5).
• Craft access to material status information. • Craft access and input to near-term planning information. • Real-time reporting of work progress status. • Expedited requests for design information and problem resolution. • Expedited management of change. • Wireless camera security systems.• Wireless sensors. • Tool and equipment status and location • Craft access to project drawings and specifications (see Figure 5).
Figure 5 - CAD Drawing Viewed on Hand-held Computer
Wearable computers are mainly used by inspectors or field service repair personnel. They can provide real-time video through a camera attached to the hard hat. They have been used during bridge and building inspections when the inspector needs to have his/her hands free to perform the task (see Figure 6).
Figure 6 - Bridge Inspection with Wearable Computer
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