Ontario Construction News staff writer
In a world first, Canadian construction company Pomerleau is using a fully-automated, battery-operated moving robot on one of its worksites near Montreal.
Spot will be used with an HD camera attached onto its back. The camera is linked with HoloBuilder, a documentation platform that allows comparisons with virtual design and construction software, enabling a full site view from a remote connection. Photos will then be used to track the project’s progress and adherence to budget, schedule and quality standards.
Designed and built by Boston Dynamics, Spot is equipped with autonomous tracking systems that enable it to identify and avoid obstacles and people, pick itself up after a fall, move in any direction, and quickly change directions. Its tracking systems make it the perfect tool to explore confined or dangerous areas – a new way to increase safety for workers.
“This initiative is in line with Pomerleau’s mission of identifying, leveraging, and championing innovation. Our industry is undergoing a profound transformation,” said Ian Kirouac, head of transformation at Pomerleau. “We foresee robotics playing a large role.”
Pomerleau is the first general contractor to use Spot on its worksites.
“We are consistently trying out new technologies, tools and ways of working that will ultimately add value to our projects and benefit our clients,” said Eric Lessard, chief digital officer.
“It’s becoming clear that today, we must turn to technology to assist and enhance human potential. Our approach is to try out different technologies – like Spot – to complement and help our workers, and then leverage their talent, skills and expertise for more crucial work.”
The company will assess Spot’s effectiveness over the next six months.
Pomerleau specializes mainly in the building, infrastructure, civil engineering and renewable energy sectors. Founded more than 50 years ago, the company employs up to 4,000 people at nine regional offices and more than 150 worksites across the country.