Drone technology is already being used to measure aggregates stockpiles
Caterpillar is planning a major push on drone technology for major UK infrastructure projects.
The world’s biggest construction equipment manufacturer has agreed a strategic partnership with drone outfit Redbird, which specialises in acquisition and analysis of aerial data collected by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
“Caterpillar is positioning itself to play a big role on infrastructure projects such as HS2,” a spokesman for Finning, Cat’s UK dealer, told CM.
“It sees the drone technology tying together the whole production journey on a civil engineering site. The drones will be used for everything from measuring quantities of materials, to optimising haul roads, to real-time mapping of earthworks operations and linking up with machine control technology.”
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The US equipment giant has already begun discussions with leading UK construction companies about the potential for UAVs, the spokesman added.
Caterpillar is also pushing drones in the quarrying sector, and is appearing at this week’s Hillhead quarrying exhibition, demonstrating the technology’s ability to measure stockpiles of aggregates.
Emmanuel de Maistre, CEO of Redbird, said: “Our UAV solutions have been developed with leading construction companies and quarry operators in the USA for the past two years, helping them extract real value out of drone data. This collaboration with Caterpillar will bring tangible benefits to construction sites and quarries, helping customers work faster and safer.”
