Managing Bulldozer Operators and Contractors with IoT Monitoring: A Case Study in the Israeli Desert
In the rugged terrain of Israel's mountains and deserts, heavy machinery plays a crucial role in various industries. Recently, we had the opportunity to put our IoT monitoring solution to the test in one of the most challenging environments: monitoring bulldozers as they bring rock back from the mountain. This two-week trial aimed to verify run time, operator performance, and the accuracy of contractor invoices.
The Atomation solution involved a simple setup:
- One gateway installed in the bulldozer's cabin
- One sensor mounted on the chassis of the bulldozer
This minimal setup was designed to measure run time based on vibration, a key indicator of bulldozer activity.
To ensure program success, we needed to overcome a few challenges:
- Verifying cellular communication where the gateways were being used
- Determining if vibration data alone could provide enough information for effective monitoring
The Metrics: Measuring Bulldozer Activity
We established clear vibration thresholds to interpret the bulldozer's activity:
- Vibration < 0.05: Not working
- Vibration 0.05 - 2: Equipment is idling but not actively in use
- Vibration > 2: Working harder than the norm
These thresholds allowed us to accurately track the bulldozer's operational status and hours of operation.
After two weeks of rigorous testing, our the Atoms proved their worth:
Productivity Monitoring: Success
The vibration data provided clear insights into the bulldozer's activity levels, allowing for accurate productivity tracking.
Invoice Auditing: Success
By comparing the actual hours of operation with submitted invoices, we were able to verify the accuracy of contractor billings.
Communication and Device Functionality: Success
Despite the challenging terrain, our devices maintained consistent communication, proving their reliability in remote and harsh environments.
The success of this trial opens up exciting possibilities for the heavy machinery industry:
- Accurate Billing: Companies can ensure they're only paying for actual work performed, potentially saving significant costs.
- Optimized Operations By understanding exactly how and when machinery is being used, companies can optimize their operations and resource allocation.
- Improved Maintenance: Tracking work intensity can help predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and extending equipment life.
Enhanced Safety: Monitoring operator behavior can lead to improved safety protocols and training programs.
This trial demonstrated the power of IoT in managing teams and equipment. From enhancing productivity to ensuring fair billing practices, the potential applications are vast. As we continue to refine and expand our solutions, we're excited to see how IoT will further transform the heavy machinery industry, one bulldozer at a time.
Interested in seeing how this technology could transform your operations? Let's connect!