Boston Dynamics and Trimble will work together to automate construction data collection.

Autonomous robots will now work on construction sites to collect data and perform repetitive tasks such as site scans, surveys, and tracking progress of work. On Tuesday, Trimble Construction (NASDAQ: TRMB) and Boston Dynamics announced their partnership to integrate Trimble’s construction data collection technologies with Boston Dynamics’ Spot robotic platform.  (CISION PRNewswire)

Spot to work in potentially unsafe environments

The well-known, dog-like Spot robot from Boston Dynamics will now enter hazardous and difficult-to-navigate areas in construction sites to collect data and visual images.

Trimble’s data collection sensors and field control software will be carried by Spot for various monitoring applications at the construction site.

“Trimble technologies integrated with the robot enable accurate, scalable, and rapid data acquisition while Trimble’s construction collaboration platforms provide a continuous flow of information between field and office,” the company said in a statement.

Trimble can now exclusively sell and support the Spot robot along with its inbuilt scanning and GNSS technologies for use at construction locations.

These integrated solutions should be available by the second quarter of 2021.

Pilot runs at Mortenson

US builder, developer, and engineering services provider Mortenson has been running trials of Spot robots armed with Trimble’s SPS986 GNSS solutions.

The Spots independently traverse through construction environments as complex as solar farms and record real-life site conditions. As a result, Mortenson is aware, in real-time, of actual project status.

“Our experience with early adopters like Mortenson gave us visibility into the transformative potential of an integrated solution that seamlessly marries a world-class robot with construction-specific sensors and workflows,” said Martin Holmgren, general manager, Building Field Solutions at Trimble.

“The integrated solution will enable any job site leader to deploy Spot and Trimble technologies to get an accurate view of construction progress through real-time data collection,” said Michael Perry, vice president of business development at Boston Dynamics. “With a more comprehensive view of site activity, project managers can take proactive measures to ensure on-time, on-budget, and safer project delivery.”

Spot gets an upgrade

Meanwhile, CNBC reported that Spot has just received an upgrade from Boston Dynamics. There is now available a recharging station that the robot can use to power up on its own. This considerably increases its range, allowing for its deployment in more remote locations.

The robot has also been provided with an arm. It enables the machine to open drawers or doors, flip a power switch, or adjust valves.

Related Story:   Use Of AI To Monitor Construction Progress