Robotics and virtual reality for health and safety
Robotisation, augmented reality and task automation are becoming more common at our construction sites. There are many applications and benefits in terms of improving working conditions and ergonomics, in order to prevent occupational illnesses such as MSD (musculoskeletal disorders). On construction sites, with the help of the company’s ergonomics experts, exoskeletons, connected harnesses and even sensors are used to check workers’ positions and reduce strain. During the early stages of construction, new tools such as virtual reality headsets or even robotic platforms are used to train workers in good practice by means of a visual and tactile process, as in industry and the medical sector. Another example is the development of the connected operator, using a kit of communicating objects to perform everyday tasks on site with complete safety. Another robotisation challenge on our construction sites is the automation of routine tasks, which are time consuming and offer no added value.
“By working on the ground, crane operators’ working conditions are improved in terms of ergonomics, with easier access to the control cabin, more space and proximity to the site base camp, which they did not have when working at height. This makes it more accessible for people with reduced mobility. Finally, being on the ground is considerably safer.”
Julien Meyer
head of lifting equipment at Bouygues Construction Matériel, Île-de-France
Further information
Did you know?
Roby 850 drilling robot
Used on the NorthConnex construction site, the Roby 850 drilling robot has limited working at height and made it easier to install equipment by means of automated wall drilling and anchor fastening. This makes work less arduous and safer and increases productivity, resulting in a higher quality finish.
ANOBI, a handsfree super assistant
ANOBI is a digital assistant designed by Bouygues Construction’s R&D teams in partnership with Suez and the Bouygues group’s E-lab. A tablet is worn on the operator’s arm, compatible with wearing gloves. The screen can be read in sunlight and in the rain. Finally, it is compact and lightweight but also shock resistant and mud- and dust-proof. The initial applications dedicated to safety, equipment geolocation and organisation are currently at the experimentation stage.
Innovation
Cranes soon to be managed remotely?
Crane operators are a key figure on construction sites. Sometimes working alone at heights of over 200 metres, they are the only people to have a 360° view of production at any time. The remote-controlled crane research project has resulted in the design of a personal assistant using augmented reality and video recognition systems to provide operators with a speed regulator, interactive dashboard and ground-level driving aid. For construction sites with several cranes, a shared control room for several crane operators will create a more sociable working environment, as well as making it easier to coordinate, thereby boosting productivity.