2023 Best Use of Technology: Site Productivity

HS2 C1

Align JV

HS2 is one of the largest and most complex infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK. Align is delivering two of the most complicated assets in HS2 phase 1; a 3.4km viaduct (the UKs longest), and 16.04km twin-bored tunnel (longest tunnel in Phase 1) with five ventilation shafts. Align, along with its client and supply chain have delivered its strategic intent to productionise its construction site through a methodical approach and systematic use of technological innovations. This has led to a net productivity gain for HS2 and can serve as a reference for the construction industry. Align offers a learning legacy for how technology can be used to achieve positive outcomes in all aspects of a project; contributed to environmental, human, productivity, and quality benefits. This has been achieved by leveraging the use of real-time data and providing adequate tools and training to our teams.

eRAIN: Early rainfall detection with AI

Drainage Services Department of Hong Kong SAR Government

Drainage Services Department (DSD) has utilized innovative technology to improve flood risk management during the revitalization of the Tsui Ping River (TPR) in East Kowloon. The department developed the "Early Rainfall Notification with Artificial Intelligence Analysis (eRAIN)" system, which accurately predicts water levels in TPR based on forecasted rainfall using statistical analysis and AI. This technology provides frontline staff with approximately 120 minutes of alert time, maximizing the working time-window in TPR and minimizing the risk of incorrect interpretations. eRAIN improves upon traditional alert systems, which are unreliable in predicting floods at specific downstream locations. The DSD used a Deep Neural Network (DNN) to model the relationship between rainfall distribution and water level, which adapts and improves its accuracy over time. Overall, eRAIN technology significantly improves flood risk management, and has potential for future applications to improve flood alert systems and promote a water-friendly culture in public spaces.

CTFleet Link

Hitachi Construction Machinery UK

CTFleet Link is unique due to its high-frequency reporting from once every 3 seconds to once every 24 hours depending on customer requirements. Having the ability to show important operational data – such as pinpoint What3Words location, idling time, and fuel usage in real time giving end users the ability to make instant decisions when needed. In an industry-first, working closely with partners at X Watch, CTFleet Link© seamlessly integrates the operational data from any connected X Watch Safety Solutions device fitted to the machine. This gives customers the ability to also monitor this safety-critical information in real time in the CTFleet Link© fleet management solution.

Mill Fleam pumping station

JBA Bentley

Derby city center faced historic flooding issues, prompting the construction of the £8m Mill Fleam Pumping Station for flood defense. The project had a challenging 15-month deadline, necessitating innovative technology solutions to meet the tight schedule. 3D-printed concrete was utilized for ground access stairs and cladding, while AR software enhanced visualization of below-ground assets, minimizing risks and ensuring safety. Synchro 4D-planning software enabled efficient phasing and resource planning. These technological advancements played a pivotal role in achieving high productivity levels, allowing the project to be completed on time and within budget, earning praise from the client.

VScout – Using Photogrammetry and AI to Safely, Accurately and Efficiently Support Asset Health

Stantec

Working with the Yorkshire Water Innovation team, Stantec has been supporting a Smart Networks Pilot Programme that involves the surveying and monitoring of sewers to help reduce the incidents of internal sewer flooding. An innovative new piece of technology from Subterra, called the VScout is being used for rapid inspections of vertical assets such as manholes. Offering multiple improvements in site productivity, the VScout provides more robust and accurate data while reducing survey time from an hour to five minutes, reducing the size of the crew required to conduct the survey, and allowing more manhole surveys to be completed within a working day. Importantly, the VScout also offers improvements to health and safety as there is no-manned entry it is a lot safer for the survey crew.