Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a new method to reliably track excavators in real-world construction environments, addressing challenges such as dust, occlusion, and dynamic backgrounds. The study, led by Professor Lee Seung-hyun from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, was published in the journal Automation in Construction in April 2026.
The team used a combination of GPS, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and stereo cameras to create a sensor fusion system that improves tracking accuracy by 30% compared to existing methods. Field tests on active construction sites showed the system could maintain tracking even when excavators were partially obscured by debris or operating in low-light conditions.
According to the researchers, this technology could enhance safety on construction sites by enabling real-time monitoring of equipment movement, reducing the risk of collisions and accidents. The system also allows for better productivity analysis by tracking machine cycles and idle times.
The research was funded by the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport as part of a larger initiative to digitize construction sites. The team plans to test the system on larger fleets and integrate it with existing site management software.
