Self-Driving Cranes will be a reality thanks to Crane Operations Experts SMIE
SMIE has entered the race to create automated self-driving crane technologies using ProSITE, their acclaimed anti-collision and jobsite monitoring system.
In a series of tests carried out during the first quarter of 2019, the revolutionary technology has demonstrated great potential and moves the industry one step closer to effective crane automation.
SMIE has transformed self-driving cranes from concept to possibility by adapting its existing crane anti-collision system, ProSITE, and adding a range of new, enhanced features.
Using ProSITE, it is anticipated that crane operators will be able to select a location on the construction site and instruct the equipment to automatically move to that location without the need for manual operation. All other features of ProSITE will remain, allowing site teams to continue to benefit from anti-collision and zoning to ensure safety.
This is not the first time that SMIE has further developed the ProSITE system, having recently introduced a new, enhanced version of the original software incorporating Wi-Fi communication technologies. This newer version allows for the system to be configured and managed remotely from any connected location, removing the need to climb multiple cranes to make simple parameter changes.
“We fully believe in supporting crane operators and making their job easier” says Nick Palfrey, CMO at SMIE. “If successful, this technology could be another tool to make this a reality in both a safe and productive way, greatly improving working conditions and minimising the high levels of stress that are currently reported by operators.
“While this is certainly exciting news and a first in our industry, we must consider the roadmap to success, and on that basis I would anticipate that it could be a while before we can see the technology in widespread service.”
The announcement demonstrates the strong potential of SMIE technology, and highlights the significant shift taking place within the building and construction industries from manual processes to automation. Digitally supported solutions are becoming an increasingly vital aspect of site safety and efficiency, and are expected to completely transform the sector.
Thanks to the viable test data generated in the initial phase, a first level of functionality, which must be considered purely as an operator aid, will be implemented in ProSITE by the end of the year.
SMIE is a global leader in the design and development of innovative, digitally enabled anti-collision systems to significantly improve on-site safety and performance. The organisation’s renowned ProSITE system was launched in 2016, offering a comprehensive lift management solution and venturing into a new generation of anti-collision technology for modern building sites.
