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Exyn Technologies and Trimble collaborate on a proof of concept for a fully autonomous surveying solution for construction

Exyn Technologies and Trimble collaborate on a proof of concept for a fully autonomous surveying solution for construction

Together Exyn and Trimble Demonstrate a Groundbreaking Solution to Increase Efficiency and Safety Across Complex GNSS-Denied Construction Environments Trimble and Exyn Technologies, a pioneer in multi-platform robotic autonomy for complex, GPS-denied environments, announced today a strategic collaboration to explore the use of autonomous construction surveying technology. The solution will integrate

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TRIMBLE INTRODUCES MIXED REALITY FOR CONSTRUCTION LAYOUT WITH FIELDLINK MR

Trimble announced today an innovative mixed-reality solution for construction layout with the introduction of the FieldLink MR app. Built on the powerful Trimble Connect® collaboration platform, Trimble FieldLink MR offers a completely new way to perform construction layout, enabling professionals to quickly navigate to tasks on the jobsite—getting more done in less

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Protecting an entire construction technology fleet

Construction technology is a large investment that businesses are usually willing to make to improve operations. However, the construction industry rarely invests in a warranty or service plan to protect new equipment. Here Lisa Cheshire, Inside Sales Specialist at SITECH® UK & Ireland, A Trimble Authorised Dealer, discusses how construction

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IMPROVED PROGRESS TRACKING FOR EARTHMOVING

SITECH UK & Ireland, the leading distributor of Trimble® technology, now offers an innovative progress tracking software solution that uses drones to help site managers map, measure and manage their sites more effectively. Trimble® Stratus, powered by Propeller, is a data analytics and visualisation platform that is designed specifically for

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VolkerWessels and Trimble Become BIM Partners

The Trimble technology has been announced as one of the key changes that will improve VolkerWessels’ management and predictability of its projects. The aim of this collaboration is to advance innovations in building information management (BIM) technology and to improve the quality of the management and predictability of real estate

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Latest Issue

BDC 319 : Aug 2024

Trimble

Exyn Technologies and Trimble collaborate on a proof of concept for a fully autonomous surveying solution for construction

Exyn Technologies and Trimble collaborate on a proof of concept for a fully autonomous surveying solution for construction

Together Exyn and Trimble Demonstrate a Groundbreaking Solution to Increase Efficiency and Safety Across Complex GNSS-Denied Construction Environments Trimble and Exyn Technologies, a pioneer in multi-platform robotic autonomy for complex, GPS-denied environments, announced today a strategic collaboration to explore the use of autonomous construction surveying technology. The solution will integrate Boston Dynamics’ Spot® robot, the ExynPak™ powered by ExynAI™ and the Trimble® X7 total station. It will enable fully autonomous missions inside complex and dynamic construction environments, which can result in consistent and precise reality capture for production and quality control workflows. “The integration of autonomous surveying technology into a construction workflow has groundbreaking potential,” said Aviad Almagor, vice president of Technology Innovation, Trimble. “It can improve operational efficiency and transparency throughout the build lifecycle while also transforming worker safety for potentially hazardous data collection.” Autonomous robots powered by ExynAI, can sense and avoid obstacles, dynamically adapting to the ever-changing complexity of construction environments. To ensure the utmost safety and efficiency, the ExynPak mounts and integrates with a robot, supporting level 4 of autonomous exploration missions without requiring the robot to “learn” about its environment beforehand. A surveyor simply defines a 3D volume for a mission and the integrated robotic solution handles the complexities of self-navigation without needing a map, GPS or wireless infrastructure. The integration of the Trimble X7 provides high-speed, high-accuracy 3D laser scanning to capture the state of the environment. The captured data can be uploaded to the Trimble Connect® collaboration platform and shared with project stakeholders for further analysis, including a comparison to Building Information Models (BIM) and previous scans to monitor quality and progress. The end result is a map of unprecedented detail and accuracy collected with minimal human intervention and risk. “Industry has been waiting for reliable and robust autonomous technology to transform difficult and dangerous activities. Exyn’s technology is helping to enable a new front in human-robot collaboration. By working with preeminent leaders such as Trimble, we aim to create adaptable, state-of-the-art systems to tackle the complexities across construction and industrial environments,” said Nader Elm, CEO of Exyn Technologies. Exyn and Trimble will be demonstrating this technology at the Trimble Dimensions+ Conference November 7-9 in Las Vegas. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SITECH EXPERT TECHNOLOGY TRAINING AT STORY PLANT INCREASES OPERATOR EFFICIENCY

Story Plant is a specialist plant hirer to the UK rail industry which operates a diverse fleet of road rail vehicles fitted with SITECH® Trimble Technology to ensure quality, safety, and delivery in a sector where timescales are tight, and delays are costly. Based in Carlisle, Cumbria, Story Plant have a historic relationship of using SITECH machine control systems spanning over 15 years, so when an influx of new operators and a transition from the Trimble GCS900 system across to Trimble Earthworks meant they needed training support they approached the team at SITECH. Story Plant carry out works with multiple clients across the UK, and they are now growing their customer base within the Midlands which has led to an increase in their fleet and number of operators.  Mark Bruce, head of technical development at Story Plant, said: “We rely heavily on our machines and the Trimble system to get things right and we currently have six dozer machines configured with the tech. “We found that different clients want to use different configurations of the Trimble system, often our operators would only use one system for a period of time and would then require a refresher when they needed to switch to a different configuration. “Solving that skill fade was important because we need our teams to have confidence in the system they’re using. Working within the rail industry you must get the work done right first time, because timescales are tight and as there’s a closure on the rail network there are severe consequences for delays.  “As well as meeting tight timescales, we place significant importance on carrying out our work safely. This involves working in areas with restricted space, such as tunnels and viaducts, so having confidence in the systems they are using allows our teams to focus on safe delivery.”  “We’re also in the process of transitioning from the old Trimble GCS900 system across to Trimble Earthworks, so we approached SITECH to see if they could create a series of quick reference videos as refreshers for our operators on things like setting up the system and simple fault fixes, which they can watch on their tablet or mobile phone.  “The training videos are just one example of our good relationship with the team at SITECH, as they also supported us earlier this year when we bought a Caterpillar D6K2 dozer, the largest dozer on the UK rail infrastructure. Because of the restricted space it operates in, it has a unique folding blade fitted which the SITECH team analysed to ensure the mast is located   in exactly the right position when the Trimble system is in use.” To find out more about the construction technology, software and services SITECH UK & Ireland offers, visit the website https://www.sitechukandireland.com.

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SITECH expert training at Story plant helps operators meet tight timescales

Story Plant is a specialist plant hirer to the UK rail industry which operates a diverse fleet of road rail vehicles fitted with SITECH® Trimble Technology to ensure quality, safety, and delivery in a sector where timescales are tight, and delays are costly. Based in Carlisle, Cumbria, Story Plant have a historic relationship of using SITECH machine control systems spanning over 15 years, so when an influx of new operators and a transition from the Trimble GCS900 system across to Trimble Earthworks meant they needed training support they approached the team at SITECH. Story Plant carry out works with multiple clients across the UK, and they are now growing their customer base within the Midlands which has led to an increase in their fleet and number of operators.  Mark Bruce, head of technical development at Story Plant, said: “We rely heavily on our machines and the Trimble system to get things right and we currently have six dozer machines configured with the tech. “We found that different clients want to use different configurations of the Trimble system, often our operators would only use one system for a period of time and would then require a refresher when they needed to switch to a different configuration. “Solving that skill fade was important because we need our teams to have confidence in the system they’re using. Working within the rail industry you must get the work done right first time, because timescales are tight and as there’s a closure on the rail network there are severe consequences for delays.  “As well as meeting tight timescales, we place significant importance on carrying out our work safely. This involves working in areas with restricted space, such as tunnels and viaducts, so having confidence in the systems they are using allows our teams to focus on safe delivery.”  “We’re also in the process of transitioning from the old Trimble GCS900 system across to Trimble Earthworks, so we approached SITECH to see if they could create a series of quick reference videos as refreshers for our operators on things like setting up the system and simple fault fixes, which they can watch on their tablet or mobile phone.  “The training videos are just one example of our good relationship with the team at SITECH, as they also supported us earlier this year when we bought a Caterpillar D6K2 dozer, the largest dozer on the UK rail infrastructure. Because of the restricted space it operates in, it has a unique folding blade fitted which the SITECH team analysed to ensure the mast is located   in exactly the right position when the Trimble system is in use.” To find out more about the construction technology, software and services SITECH UK & Ireland offers, visit the website https://www.sitechukandireland.com.

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TRIMBLE INTRODUCES MIXED REALITY FOR CONSTRUCTION LAYOUT WITH FIELDLINK MR

Trimble announced today an innovative mixed-reality solution for construction layout with the introduction of the FieldLink MR app. Built on the powerful Trimble Connect® collaboration platform, Trimble FieldLink MR offers a completely new way to perform construction layout, enabling professionals to quickly navigate to tasks on the jobsite—getting more done in less time. The app runs on the Trimble® XR10 with HoloLens 2, a hardhat-integrated mixed-reality device.  With Trimble FieldLink MR, field crews can easily visualize construction data without relying on a handheld controller for step-by-step navigation to locate each point. Visual cues presented through the mixed-reality hardhat naturally lead workers directly to each point for them to physically lay out pertinent information on the construction site. Attracting and retaining skilled workers remains a key challenge for many contractors, reducing the complexity of layout in the field will be essential to enable less experienced staff to deliver quality work the first time.  “Trimble’s FieldLink solution enables users to precisely position digital construction information in the physical world. FieldLink MR is an extension of this application, which seamlessly integrates cutting edge mixed-reality technology to help construction professionals be more effective on site. This integration offers more efficient and intuitive workflows by making the layout process more natural and contextual,” said Martin Holmgren, general manager for Trimble’s Building Construction Field Solutions Division.  Trimble’s layout and mixed-reality solutions are part of the Trimble Connected Construction ecosystem, leveraging the Trimble Connect collaboration platform. Contractors from different trades and in all phases of the construction lifecycle can work together to enable more automated layout and fabrication. Field productivity solutions are driven directly by constructible data, reducing the need for data conversions and the potential for error. Using constructible data and real-time collaboration, project stakeholders can work together seamlessly, optimizing the design, build and operate lifecycle. AvailabilityTrimble FieldLink MR is expected to be available in the first half of 2022 from Trimble and BuildingPoint™ distribution partners and will be downloadable through the Microsoft Store. For more information, visit:  fieldtech.trimble.com/en/products/layout. The Trimble XR10 with HoloLens 2 is available through Trimble and BuildingPoint distribution partners.

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Protecting an entire construction technology fleet

Construction technology is a large investment that businesses are usually willing to make to improve operations. However, the construction industry rarely invests in a warranty or service plan to protect new equipment. Here Lisa Cheshire, Inside Sales Specialist at SITECH® UK & Ireland, A Trimble Authorised Dealer, discusses how construction customer Galtec chose to go from no warranty, to a fully protected fleet to help reduce costs. Galtec provides civil engineering and groundworks for the housing industry throughout south-west England. Protecting their assets and maximising uptime has always been high on Galtec’s agenda but they had not yet invested in a warranty. With expert, money saving guidance from the team at SITECH, they decided to invest in a four-year Trimble Protection Plan on all 14 of their Trimble kits. In doing this Galtec have minimised the risk of unexpected, costly call outs and covered the cost of routine recalibration and replacements. Businesses typically protect their fleet in different ways, depending on the age of their technology. Newer products remain under factory warranty for set periods of time. Further protection can be taken out as warranties end, ensuring that they are always fully protected. There is flexibility to choose how long components are protected for and protection can cover selected set periods. For instance, if a construction business has a large job that is running for a year, they can take protection out on the equipment just for that period. Galtec chose to invest in protecting its technology fleet on an ongoing basis by opting for a four-year plan, meaning they will not have to renew their plan during this time. “Our fleet protection plan has given us the peace of mind that we won’t have any unexpected bills to pay if machines break down in the middle of a job for the next four years,” explained Jim Swift, GPS Manager at Galtec. “When a part needs to be taken off site and repaired, SITECH quickly turns the part round, so we have as little downtime as possible.” “Galtec immediately understood the value that the Trimble Protection Plan would give” Carl Parsons, Regional Sales Manager at SITECH UK & Ireland explained. “The cheapest technology part to replace typically costs more than an entire year’s warranty, so Galtec will quickly see a return on investment as its parts are recalibrated, serviced and replaced over time.” Compared to the costs of a construction machine, investing the small cost to fully protect a fleet from any eventuality and get access to experienced technology professionals will provide clear return on investment. To find out more about reducing downtime on your construction site, visit the website http://www.sitechukandireland.com/products or call Lisa Cheshire to start the discussion about your Trimble Protection Plan options on 07736631988. 

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IMPROVED PROGRESS TRACKING FOR EARTHMOVING

SITECH UK & Ireland, the leading distributor of Trimble® technology, now offers an innovative progress tracking software solution that uses drones to help site managers map, measure and manage their sites more effectively. Trimble® Stratus, powered by Propeller, is a data analytics and visualisation platform that is designed specifically for earthmoving applications to help contractors track progress and productivity. Harnessing the power of highly accurate surveying and mapping capabilities, contractors are able to avoid costly delays and minimise rework. Unlike other industries that are embracing digitalisation, earthworks and construction have traditionally lagged behind and have been slow to innovate. For example, many construction companies still rely on traditional methods of surveying, such as pegs, to map a project. This often requires skilled surveyors that can make the necessary calculations and interpret the data. However, their time on site is limited, and it isn’t always easy to access this expertise when you need it. SITECH now supplies Trimble® Stratus to help construction companies digitise and overcome common surveying issues. The new package uses Trimble’s ® Connected Site solutions and delivers a new end-to-end solution for contractors. This means that contractors can place and activate their ground control points and then fly their drone to collect site data. Using Trimble® Stratus, you can then upload and view this data and share it between the site, office and across the team. This can help prevent miscommunication and ensure that everyone in the company is updated on site progress. “If manual surveys are inaccurate, construction companies can see a decline in performance and see delays that mean they fall behind schedule and go over budget,” explained Ian Barnes, Head of Business at SITECH UK & Ireland. “By using drone technology, surveyors can access highly accurate data to ensure operations remain on schedule. Companies can also remove employees from difficult to access and dangerous areas, like quarries, improving safety as well as accuracy.” “While other software tries to accommodate a broad category of users, Trimble Stratus is 100 percent focused on earthmoving and construction environments,” explained Jan Wouter Kruyt, Director of European Operations at Propeller. “The cloud-based platform is also really intuitive and can be used without surveying expertise ─ the drone images are processed in Trimble Stratus and then visualised as an interactive, measurable 3D terrain models. It’s easy to create and share measurements on these 3D maps. “The new package delivers several benefits for construction companies, including capabilities to compare designs and minimise rework by generating highly accurate survey data,” continued Kruyt. “Most importantly, having frequent up-to-date survey data on hand means that companies can complete projects ahead of schedule and under budget, something that’s becoming more important as companies try to get back on track following lockdown.” “Trimble® Stratus is ground-breaking for construction companies that want to enhance their surveying,” continued Barnes. “By harnessing the power of drone technology and combining this with a Trimble® platform, contractors now have access to highly accurate progress tracking with a solution designed specifically for earthworks projects like theirs.” Interested in using Trimble® Stratus to help you plan your site? Visit our website and find out more about what we offer https://www.sitechukandireland.com/sitech-drone-services/.

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VolkerWessels and Trimble Become BIM Partners

The Trimble technology has been announced as one of the key changes that will improve VolkerWessels’ management and predictability of its projects. The aim of this collaboration is to advance innovations in building information management (BIM) technology and to improve the quality of the management and predictability of real estate projects and building construction. VolkerWessels’ projects will be standardised on a set of Trimble construction technologies. “Our close collaboration with VolkerWessels enables both companies to innovate while driving greater value in the design, build and operate phases of construction,” said Roz Buick, vice president at Trimble. “We greatly value this key customer relationship enabling us both to seek insights for buildings, infrastructure and real estate asset industries.” Trimble’s role in this partnership will be to work closely with VolkerWessels’ stakeholders so that it could gather real-world feedback to continue the innovation in BIM-centric construction. Professional and integration services performed by Trimble and Construsoft, a Trimble integrator based in the Netherlands, are also part of the deal, in addition to the purchase of construction technologies. “Trimble excels at providing putting construction data to work,” said Marinus den Harder, director of construction and real estate development at VolkerWessels. “Trimble’s data-centric approach to BIM provides us with analytics and business intelligence that we can use to extend our competitive advantage.” Trimble is a provider of technologies for civil and building construction management. It has a full range of tools and its personal approach on how to manage construction activities and team collaboration; skills that help its customers achieve operational excellence. VolkerWessels will be using Trimble ProjectSight for construction management and Trimble Connect software as a central collaboration platform to streamline the sharing of construction models, data and project information between key project stakeholders. VolkerWessels is a leading construction firm and global player in the field of information and communications technologies. It is a Dutch group of companies with 16,000 employees and about 120 companies and offices in the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, Canada, and the United States.

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