Performance analysis and data enhancement of wireless UWB real-time location system for tracking construction equipment

Construction sites are well known for their dynamic and challenging nature. On the other hand, the efficiency and safety of construction projects are highly desired. Several researchers are investigating the application of various Real-time Location Systems (RTLSs) for improving the safety and productivity of construction projects. When integrated with real-time data analysis systems, RTLS can contribute to making the construction environment smarter and safer through enabling the identification of safety hazards and inefficient resource configurations. While Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, as an emerging type of RTLS, has been studied for applications in construction projects, its usage has been mainly restricted to a setting which requires wired connections between the UWB sensors, which may reduce its applicability. This paper analyses the performance of wireless UWB RTLS in indoor and outdoor environments along with the evaluation of the effect of wireless bridges on its performance. Furthermore, two data enhancement methods are evaluated to improve the accuracy of data resulted from wireless UWB systems.