GPS usage and infrastructure needs for machine guidance and control in the construction projects associated with QDMR

Abstract

[Abstract]: This dissertation analyzed the GPS usage and infrastructure needs for machine guidance and control, in the construction projects associated with QDMR, in order to provide recommendations for future infrastructure needs. Research studies have confirmed that, GPS usage on machine guidance and control in the construction industry, within a VRS CORS environment increase the productivity of the projects. Investigation about the GPS usage on machine guidance and control, for construction projects, associated with QDMR was selected, as the limit of this study, in order to make recommendations for future infrastructure needs, with respect to a possible VRS expansion. Three main research approaches were designed in the project, and the results were further investigated. Geographical locations, spread and density, budget allocations and the durations of the projects were analyzed, to find out a clear suite of evidence, to prove the argument. The business case and the associated cost /benefit analysis, confirmed that, it is beneficial to expand VRS coverage to allow QDMR, to use machine guidance and control on construction projects in south east Queensland. Results not only demonstrated that, the VRS expansion is possible in the south east region, but also, suggested that multiple strategies should be adopted, when establishing GPS infrastructure in Queensland, as a whole. VRS expansion is suitable for the locations, with high density of construction projects, while other districts may provide with either, independent GPS networks or should still use, stand alone systems. Recommendations on future GPS infrastructure developments in Queensland based on the above findings and further possible research avenues were also included in this dissertation. Recommendations on future GPS infrastructure developments have been prepared for the first time in Queensland, from a research study, considering a situation applied to a major government organization in Queensland. These recommendations may be used by DNRW, QDMR and other potential GPS users, to develop strategies, for designing future GPS infrastructure in Queensland, at government level.