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Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry

How can we improve efficiency, safety & output on today’s construction sites? LoRaWAN could be the answer...

The digitisation of construction sites has brought about exciting technologies such as smart wearable devices, mobile wireless networking and the Internet of Things (IoT).

In this article, we explore the possibilities of automation, gaining new insights and introducing an affordable and efficient solution - LoRaWAN.

What is LoRaWAN?

LoRaWAN is a low-power wide area network (LPWAN) specification designed for wireless battery-powered devices in regional, national or global networks. Its architecture allows for cost-effective deployment of devices and infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for construction sites. Moreover, LoRaWAN provides robust security measures, ensuring device authentication and employing encryption techniques.

Architecture

A LoRaWAN network follows a star-of-stars topology, with gateways acting as bridges between end devices and a central network server. These gateways facilitate long-distance communication, securely connecting IoT devices to new or existing infrastructure for analysis and reporting. The specification ensures seamless interoperability between different manufacturers, promoting flexible and open solutions.

Security

LoRaWAN incorporates advanced 128-bit AES end-to-end encryption, providing robust security at the network and application layers. It also utilises device authentication using MAC addressing to prevent unauthorised access or tampering of data flow.

Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry
Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry
Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry

Advantages of LoRaWAN

LoRaWAN offers numerous advantages over proprietary solutions, including:

  • Easy installation and maintenance
  • Scalability and flexibility
  • Bidirectional communication
  • Secure and encrypted data transmission
  • Long battery life for sensors (up to 10 years)
  • Long-range wireless connections (up to 15km depending on topography)
  • Support for multicast and large-scale processes
  • Low cost due to simple architecture and unlicensed radio frequencies
  • Improved location tracking with less power consumption than GPS
  • Open global standard supported by the LoRa Alliance®

Construction use cases

LoRaWAN has diverse applications in the construction industry, such as:

  • Location tracking of assets, materials and workers
  • Optimised utilisation reporting of construction vehicles
  • Monitoring temperature and supply of materials
  • Collision avoidance and detection of construction vehicles
  • Monitoring air pollution and quality
  • Enforcement and monitoring of safety zones for assets and workers

Conclusion

LoRaWAN presents an affordable and efficient technology for monitoring and managing valuable assets on construction sites. By leveraging this open global standard, businesses can save costs, increase efficiency and enhance safety. With LoRaWAN connectivity and insights, the Construction industry can unlock new possibilities and discover untapped potential. The future lies in connecting the disconnected and LoRaWAN can be the key to unlocking a smarter Construction industry.

Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry
Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry
Using LoRaWAN to improve the Construction industry

About UK Connect

With a rich background in the Construction industry, UK Connect has been a trusted Connectivity provider since 2013. Our expertise extends across various sectors including Public Services, Manufacturing, Warehousing, Logistics, Mining and more. Discover how our comprehensive Connectivity solutions can elevate your business at www.ukconnect.com.

For all media-related enquiries, contact marketing@ukconnect.com.

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