DPR Construction is a self-performing general contractor focused on highly complex and technical projects.

**Use Case:** [CivDot Mini](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-mini)

**Project Size:**  40,000 Sq Ft

**Projects with CivDot Mini:** 1

dpr-construction-logo copy.png

CivDot Mini

About DPR Constrcution

DPR Construction is an industry leader in delivering modular office solutions for large-scale construction projects. When faced with the challenge of manually laying out foundation pads for their modular “Lego-like” office buildings, DPR Construction sought an automated solution to get the job done in hours instead of days. This led them to CivDot Mini by Civ Robotics, a compact layout robot tailored for precise, outdoor construction applications with GNSS capabilities.

#### _Challenges:_

Traditionally, DPR’s layout process involved four-person crews manually marking foundation points, which was slow and labor-intensive, particularly for larger projects. Jake Nyen, Business Unit Leader, described the challenge: 

>“Everything was laid out by hand. It was like we were using tape measures and relying on guesswork to ensure accuracy for each pad location.” 

As project sizes increased, it became clear they needed a streamlined, precision-driven solution to meet demand.

#### _Solution:_

DPR adopted CivDot Mini to overcome these limitations, expediting their layout process significantly while achieving precise results on large-scale sites.


### Rapid Deployment and Calibration

DPR’s first deployment of CivDot Mini was on a 40,000-square-foot site, transforming what was previously a four-day manual task into a four-hour automated process. 
Working closely with the Civ Robotics team, DPR calibrated CivDot Mini to optimize its performance and meet the stringent standards required for placing large, modular office blocks.


### Precision and Repeatability

![DPR Construction repeatability CivDotMini Medium (1).jpeg](https://d3bf96qx5wreyx.cloudfront.net/DPR_Construction_repeatability_Civ_Dot_Mini_Medium_1_7c7217371e.jpeg)
###### _CivDot Mini at DPR Construction Jobsite showcasing repeatability and accuracy_
The DPR team was particularly impressed by CivDot Mini’s accuracy and repeatability. During testing, the robot marked the same area multiple times using different colors, with each mark precisely aligned with accurary of 1". 

This high level of repeatability instilled confidence in CivDot Mini’s precision, eliminating guesswork and ensuring accurate placement for complex modular structures.

>“CivDot Mini turned a four-day job into a four-hour task. It’s fast, accurate, and the cost savings speak for themselves.”

DPR’s early adoption of CivDot Mini set a new benchmark in automated layout efficiency, reducing costs, saving time, and enhancing accuracy across modular construction projects. 








DPR Construction CivDot Mini Success Story cover Medium (1).jpeg

DPR Construction, a leader in modular office solutions, transformed its layout process with CivDot Mini.

From Four Days to Four Hours with CivDot Mini

Mortenson is a U.S.-based, top-25 builder, developer, and engineering services provider serving the commercial, institutional, and energy sectors.

**Use Case:** [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot)

**Project Size:**  400,000 points

**Projects with CivDot:** Numerous

mortenson-logo_r-removebg-preview copy.png

CivDot

About Mortenson

Mortenson, a prominent player in renewable energy construction, was tasked with the monumental Edwards & Sanborn Solar and Energy Storage Project, one of the largest solar-plus-storage projects in North America. Faced with the challenge of installing approximately 400,000 piles, Mortenson required an innovative solution to scale their operations efficiently while maintaining precision. 

#### _Challenges:_

Traditionally, Mortenson relied on manual surveying techniques, utilizing two-person crews for point-by-point marking. While effective for smaller-scale projects, this method was too labor-intensive and slow for the vast scope of Edwards & Sanborn. Mortenson needed a way to boost productivity and streamline their processes on such a large scale.

#### _Solution:_

To meet this challenge, Mortenson adopted CivDot and expedited the process seamlessly, without sacrificing precision or productivity. 

### Achieving Desired Targets From the Start: 

CivDot enabled Mortenson to surpass their initial output target of 60 points per manhour—using  two-person crew per robot. The process involved a crew chief calling out the pile color noted on the tablet, while the nailer installed the marker, ensuring efficient communication and marking.  

### Innovating with Creativity: 

In response to CivDot’s enhanced productivity, Mortenson developed a custom solution to maintain pace. Instead of using standard nails with whiskers or flags, they opted for nails with ribbons to manage the variety of pile types and lengths. The nailer, equipped with a custom-made belt carrying ribbons in different colors, tied the ribbons to nails while moving, eliminating the need for preparation and ensuring they kept up with the robot’s pace. 

![Mortenson Operator with CivDot using custom made belt.jpeg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/Mortenson_Operator_with_Civ_Dot_using_custom_made_belt_cb952c8cb5.jpeg)
###### _Mortenson's operator using a custom made belt with CivDot_

### Streamlining Operations with Advanced Features: 

Recognizing the gap in operational efficiency, Civ Robotics saw an opportunity to streamline the process. To address the need for more autonomy Civ Robotics introduced the “pause at” feature, allowing CivDot to automatically pause at key conditions like changes in coordinate description. 

The integration enabled Mortenson to increase their output by more than 50% by having a two-person crew operate 2 CivDots instead of 1, increasing productivity to 120 points per manhour. 

In addition, the seamlessness enabled operators to survey with CivDot alongside the shakeout crew instead of surveying prior to shakeout.

### Results: Elevated Productivity and Efficiency: 

With the "pause at" feature fully implemented, and with operators becoming proficient with the new system, Mortenson saw a significant leap in productivity. Operators managing CivDot solo eventually marked 200 points per hour, with peak performance reaching an impressive 300 points per hour. This remarkable efficiency accelerated surveying timelines.

The success of CivDot at the Edwards & Sanborn Project was so impactful that Mortenson expanded its use across multiple projects in states like Texas and Florida, consistently achieving outstanding productivity gains and cost savings.

### A Partnership Driving Innovation:

Mortenson’s early adoption of CivDot didn’t just enhance their operations—it played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of the technology. Their feedback led to the creation of key features that have since become standard across CivDot systems, marking the collaboration as a successful partnership in both innovation and execution. 






CivDot 4WD solar farm (1).jpeg

Mortenson partnered with Civ Robotics to tackle surveying for large-scale projects, adopting CivDot technology. Mortenson boosted their output, achieving up to 300 points per hour, while maintaining precision and reducing labor costs.

Mortenson & CivDot: A Successful Partnership

Keeley Construction was founded in 1976 as a family-owned paving business which has since grown into a national construction company providing services in Paving, Building, Civil, and Industrial.  At the heart of Keeley Constrution are the craftspeople providing innovative construction solutions to our customers. 

**Use Case:** [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus)

**Project Size:**  80,000 - 100,000 points

**Projects with CivDot:** 2

keeley construction.png

CivDot+

About Keeley Construction

Keeley Construction, a leader in civil infrastructure, was ready to scale up their operations to take on larger solar farm projects. But with scale came challenges—how could they maintain precision while drastically increasing output? Traditional surveying methods were too slow and labor-intensive for the massive scale they were now tackling. Keeley needed a breakthrough, and they found it with [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus).

#### _Challenges:_

Entering the realm of large-scale solar farms, Keeley Construction quickly realized that their tried-and-true methods wouldn’t cut it. Previously, their teams had relied on GNSS rovers, with surveyors manually staking out each point—an approach that worked for smaller projects but became a bottleneck on vast 300-acre sites with tens of thousands of points to mark. The physical demands on the crew, combined with the extended duration of these tasks, threatened to slow progress and inflate costs.

#### _Solution:_

Keeley’s search for a more efficient solution led them to CivDot+, an advanced robotic surveying technology from Civ Robotics. With CivDot+, the game changed. What once required multiple crews working long hours could now be achieved by a single operator with a CivDot+ unit. The team saw their productivity skyrocket—marking up to 1,000 points per day, more than doubling their previous output. This automation not only sped up the process but also reduced the physical toll on their crew.

### Cost Savings: 

The impact of CivDot+ on Keeley’s bottom line was immediate and profound. By slashing the duration of surveying tasks by 50 percent, Keeley realized significant cost savings. The effective gains were so impressive that they ordered a second CivDot+ unit during the initial training phase to support another project. Additionally, the ability to complete work faster meant less exposure to weather-related delays, ensuring projects stayed on schedule, and resources were used more efficiently.

### Increased Productivity: 

The adoption of CivDot+ didn’t just boost productivity—it transformed Keeley’s entire approach to surveying. The robot’s efficiency allowed Keeley to optimize their workforce, focusing human resources on higher-value tasks. The ease of use and reduced manual labor meant that the team could push through challenging conditions with less fatigue, increasing morale and output. With CivDot+, what used to be a demanding, all-day job was streamlined into a smooth, efficient process that empowered Keeley to take on more projects without the need for additional hires.

What truly sets this case apart is the relationship between Keeley Construction and Civ Robotics. From the moment they reached out, Keeley knew they weren’t just buying a product—they were gaining a partner. Even when challenges arose, Civ Robotics’ commitment to customer service shone through. Whether it was on-site support or quick responses to any hiccups, the Civ Robotics team was there, ensuring Keeley’s success every step of the way. It’s this dedication to partnership that convinced Keeley to invest in a second CivDot+ unit, confident that they were backed by a team as committed to excellence as they were.



Keeley Operator using CivDot+.jpeg

Keeley Construction doubled productivity and cut costs using CivDot+, revolutionizing their approach to large-scale solar farm surveying.

Scaling Solar: Keeley's CivDot+ Story

Signal Energy is on a mission to be the preferred engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for their strategic customers by providing innovative solutions, delivering exceptional results, and attracting and developing the best work force in the industry. 

**Use Case:** [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot)

**Project Size:**  80,000 - 100,000 points

**Projects with CivDot:** 4

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About Signal Energy

Signal Energy, a full-service design/ build contractor in renewable energy construction, is on a mission to be the preferred engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for their customers by providing innovative solutions and delivering exceptional results. 

Signal Energy adopted [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot), an advanced robotic surveying technology from Civ Robotics to overcome traditional surveying challenges. This case study explores the significant improvements in operational efficiency and cost savings that CivDot brought to Signal Energy's surveying processes.

#### _Challenges:_

Before CivDot, Signal Energy’s surveying process was time-consuming and required meticulous training. Each project involved multiple two-person crews equipped with GNSS rovers to lay out pile coordinates, which was labor-intensive and costly.

#### _Solution:_

Signal Energy's automated surveying by incorporating CivDot drastically simplified training, reduced costs, and sped up the process. The solution enabled the company to have operators with no prior surveying experience trained and ready in just a few hours to hit the ground running at the job site.

![CivDot Training for Signal Energy Operators.jpeg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/Civ_Dot_Training_for_Signal_Energy_Operators_3b85029e4c.jpeg)
###### Training Signal Energy operators

### Cost Savings: 

With CivDot, Signal Energy reduced overall layout costs by half, highlighting the significant financial benefits of using advanced technology. Furthermore, the automation provided by CivDot allowed existing personnel to focus on more skilled tasks, enhancing their productivity and contributing to the overall efficiency of the project.

### Increased Productivity: 

With just 1 CivDot robot and an operator, the team enabled pinning out a block of 1300 to 1800 points in a single day, compared to the traditional method which required multiple crews working 10-hour days for a similar level of result. 

The integration of CivDot into Signal Energy's surveying operations has led to substantial improvements in the layout process. By automating the labor-intensive aspects of surveying, CivDot is providing a reliable and precise solution that meets the demanding needs of renewable energy construction projects.

Signal Energy's partnership with Civ Robotics underscores the significant benefits of adopting advanced technology in construction surveying, paving the way for continued innovation and success in the industry.


Signal Energy with CivDot

Signal Energy overcame traditional surveying challenges, resulting in significant cost savings and increased operational efficiency with CivDot.

Overcoming Surveying Challenges with CivDot

Bechtel helps customers deliver projects of purpose that create a lasting positive legacy. These projects create jobs and grow economies; improve the resiliency of the world's infrastructure; connect communities to resources and opportunity; get us closer to net zero; tackle critical environmental challenges; protect people and the planet; and accelerate progress to make the world a cleaner, greener, safer place.

**Use Case:** [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus)

**Project Size:**  300,000 points  

**Projects with CivDot+:** 3

[www.bechtel.com](https://www.bechtel.com/)

bechtel-logo.png

About Bechtel

Bechtel, a global engineering, construction, and project management company, is committed to innovation and excellence. Driven by a desire to deliver better and faster for its customers, Bechtel embarked on a transformative journey into tech-driven surveying with CivDot+.

This case study portrays how Bechtel advanced their wick drain installation operations with CivDot+ at their LNG job sites.

![Bechtel Job site.jpg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/Bechtel_Job_site_a48dcbe651.jpg)
###### _Image Credits: Bechtel, Port Arthur LNG_

#### _Challenges:_

The LNG division of Bechtel faced challenges in maintaining efficient surveying processes due to their reliance on the string line method. As a result, this impeded the workflow, causing delays and inefficiencies in operations.


#### _Solution:_

Implementation of CivDot+, an advanced robotic surveying technology developed by Civ Robotics, which offers millimeter-level accuracy in marking coordinates, significantly transforming the landscape of operational surveying.


### Automate Labor-Intensive Processes: 

CivDot+ enhanced operational efficiency by automating Bechtel’s labor-intensive process surveying previously dominated by the traditional string line method. The automation was achieved through CivDot+’s advanced robotic technology that lays out points with high precision based on pre-uploaded site plans. This reduces the need for multiple crew members to mark locations physically and minimizes human error. 

### Maintain Continuity with Adaptive Use Case:

CivDot+ is designed to adapt to various terrain challenges. Bechtel’s wick drain installation job site involved uneven terrain or dense, tricky patterns that required a considerable amounts of re-staking. CivDot+’s adaptability aided in maintaining operational continuity and efficiency, regardless of the site's physical conditions.

>_“CivDot+ has especially helped us in areas where it would be a bit tricky to pinpoint with the string line.” - Jesus Ramirez, General Foreman, Bechtel_

### Get More Streamlined Workflow:

The automation and precision provided by CivDot+ allowed for a more streamlined workflow. With CivDot+ laying out the groundwork, Bechtel’s crew could proceed directly to the installation process's next steps without double-checking manually placed markers. The streamlined approach saved time and allowed the team to focus on other critical tasks, enhancing overall productivity.

CivDot+'s integration into Bechtel’s surveying operations has transformed traditional, labor-intensive processes into more efficient, accurate, and less time-consuming operations. The operational efficiencies gained from CivDot+ represent a significant advancement in how modern technology can be leveraged to enhance traditional construction and surveying techniques in the waste management sector.



CivDot at Bechtel_Wick Drain_Port Arthur.jpg

Bechtel boosts wick drain installation efficiency with CivDot+, transforming traditional surveying methods.

Advancing Wick Drain Operations for Bechtel

Bechtel helps customers deliver projects of purpose that create a lasting positive legacy. These projects create jobs and grow economies; improve the resiliency of the world's infrastructure; connect communities to resources and opportunity; get us closer to net zero; tackle critical environmental challenges; protect people and the planet; and accelerate progress to make the world a cleaner, greener, safer place.

**Use Case:** [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot)

**Project Size:** > 200MW 

**Projects with CivDot:** 4

[www.bechtel.com](https://www.bechtel.com/)


[Bechtel](https://www.bechtel.com/), a global leader in renewable energy development, is committed to innovation and excellence. Driven by a desire to deliver better and faster for its customers and to support the energy transition, Bechtel embarked on a transformative journey into tech-driven surveying with [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/products/civdot). 

[Link](https://youtu.be/RBxObqMnvzY?feature=shared) to Bechtel's video

This case study illuminates how Bechtel's strategic vision and dedication to advancement led it to redefine industry benchmarks, prioritizing safety, precision, and sustainability at every turn.

#### _Challenges:_

Before instituting Civ Robotics’ CivDot, Bechtel, like all contractors, employed traditional manual surveys for solar projects. The process involved multiple 2-person crews using handheld GPS devices, consuming time and resources. Human errors and data inconsistencies could hinder accurate results. With an expanding solar portfolio, Bechtel sought innovative solutions and a standardized approach for improved surveying solutions.



#### _Solution:_

Bechtel found a comprehensive solution in Civ Robotics' autonomous surveying technology, which offered a range of benefits to overcome their challenges. 

![Civ Robotics at Bechtel.jpg](https://d3bf96qx5wreyx.cloudfront.net/medium_Civ_Robotics_at_Bechtel_c0e22ae334.jpg)
###### _Photo Courtesy of Bechtel_


### Improve Survey Time Sixfold: 
Marking 1,250 coordinates a day (equivalent to 125 per hour), CivDot enabled Bechtel to swiftly mark survey points, surpassing the limited output of manual point-by-point surveys, which typically yielded only 25 points per hour. This efficient process significantly diminished surveying time and labor requirements, allowing Bechtel to optimize resource allocation and expedite project timelines.


### Promote Safer Workspace:
Safety is ingrained into Bechtel culture, and it guides all of its actions. Preventing any possible safety risk through smart project design, construction, and delivery is paramount to the company. CivDot eliminated the need for craft professionals to carry heavy equipment while navigating challenging terrains, and multitasking for accurate measurements with handheld GPS surveying.

CivDot enabled personnel to be more aware of their surroundings, further enhancing safety across worksites. In addition workers are now engaging more with the software, thereby turning the surveying process into a more enjoyable and interactive experience.  


>_"It's fun to use the application and interact with the software. It's a more enjoyable experience for the folks out there doing the work compared to traditional methods." - Zachary Fray, Project Superintendent, Bechtel_



### Reshape Operational Landscape:
Integrating Civ Robotics into Bechtel's operations helped to optimize workflow efficiency. The intuitive design of the technology simplified training for new personnel, enabling them to quickly grasp its functionalities and contribute to project success from day one.


>_"CivDot reshaped our operational landscape, allowing us to charge ahead in a competitive market." - Taylor Carlson, Site Manager, Bechtel._


Bechtel has leveraged CivDot at two solar projects to-date and is preparing to employ it for an additional two facilities in 2024. The four solar facilities combined will produce enough clean renewable energy to power more than 100,000 homes.

Bechtel's partnership with Civ Robotics has helped to propel its approach to solar project surveying, driving operational excellence, and enhancing safety across its worksites. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Bechtel has not only overcome longstanding challenges but also positioned itself for continued success in the rapidly evolving renewable energy industry.


CivRobotics at Bechtel.jpg

Bechtel revolutionized its approach to solar project surveying with CivDot, driving operational excellence and enhancing safety across its worksites. 

Safer and Faster Surveying with CivDot

For 100 years, [Barton Malow](https://www.bartonmalow.com/) has been committed to Building with the American Spirit: People, Projects, and Communities. The Barton Malow Family of Companies is comprised of four entities, five partner firms, and more than 3,500 team members across North America. The 100% employee-owned enterprise is on a mission to transform the construction industry through innovation and increased efficiencies in the building process. 

**Use Case:** [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot)

**Project Size:** > 100MW


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About Barton Malow:

Barton Malow, a leading North American construction enterprise, has faced numerous challenges in ensuring precision in surveying, which is crucial to its utility-scale solar projects. The enterprise's expansion into comprehensive project management across diverse terrains has underscored the need for an efficient, accurate site layout to maintain project timelines and budgets.

#### _Challenges:_

Barton Malow's primary challenge was time in the field. Before utilizing [Civ Robotics' autonomous solution](https://www.civrobotics.com/), the team used the manual method of staking each point, which was time-consuming and physically draining. At the start of every project, there was a pressing need for a faster, more efficient solution. Besides this, it needed a system simple enough to be operated by someone with little surveying experience.



#### _Solution:_

Barton Malow found a simple, effective, and easy-to-use system by integrating [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot) into its operations. 

>_“With CivDot, our process became super simple and effective. Easy to layout, easy to comprehend." - **Bobby Beauchamp, General Foreman, Barton Malow**_

### Better Surveying Speed and Output:
By switching to Civ Robotics' technology, Barton Malow increased the number of layout points from a single point a minute with manual staking to up to 6 points a minute with one CivDot rover.


### Simplify Training:
The intuitive design of Civ Robotics’ software, CivPlan, dramatically simplifies the learning curve for new personnel. The system's user-friendliness and accessibility enable new crew members to grasp the technology within an hour. For example, the system's ability to display skipped vs. marked points allows for efficient rerouting and progress tracking. 

![CivPlan_Cut&Fill-min.png](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Civ_Plan_Cut_and_Fill_min_8eff61761e.png)
###### _Image Credits: Civ Robotics'_


### Hands-Free Surveying:
A testament to Barton Malow’s foremen who fabricated a custom flag holders equipped with 12 compartments carrying flags in different colors. Before CivDot, the crew laboriously carried manual surveying equipment, including a GNSS pole over the shoulder, tracking arrows on controller, and following bubbles for accurate measurements. 

Now, with CivDot, the crew navigates hands-free, effortlessly pulling out and installing flags (not to mention the 20,000 daily steps). 

![Barton Malow x CivDot-min.jpg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Screen_Shot_2024_01_02_at_9_57_19_AM_copy_min_d03bc9b549.jpg)
###### _Image Credits: Barton Malow_



### Increase Reliability:
Civ Robotics’ all-terrain marking robot increases its reliability in navigating variable topography characterized by mud, rocks, and challenging landscapes. Whether facing extreme weather conditions or encountering obstacles, CivDot consistently demonstrates robust performance, showcasing its adaptability and dependability in the diverse and demanding environments typical of Barton Malow's solar construction projects.

![Rugged terrain-min.jpg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Rugged_terrain_min_4255e4f5d0.jpg)
###### _Image Credits: Barton Malow_



The convenience of CivDot allowed Barton Malow’s crew to have efficient workdays. By eliminating the laborious part of the job, CivDot transformed Barton Malow’s approach to construction surveying while streamlining and optimizing overall operation. Above all the Barton Malow team’s resourcefulness, coupled with CivDot's advanced capabilities, resulted in a harmonious blend of technology and creativity.

Barton Malow Hero copy.jpg

Barton Malow transforms its surveying landscape with CivDot by increasing output to 6 points a minute, simplifying operations, and firmly securing project timelines and budgets.

Surveying Upgrade: Six Points a Minute

[Qcells](https://us.qcells.com/) is one of the world’s leading clean energy companies, recognized for its established reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance, high-quality solar cells and modules, portfolio of intelligent storage systems, and growing international pipeline of large-scale renewable energy projects. 

**Use Case:** [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus)

**Project Size:** < 200MW


Qcells.png

About QCells:

QCells, a prominent name in the renewable energy industry, has rapidly evolved from its roots as a solar energy company to a leading global provider of photovoltaic technology. With a commitment to producing high-quality solar cells and modules, QCells has ventured into utility-scale solar projects across the United States. This expansion brought about the need for meticulous surveying to guarantee the precise deployment of solar infrastructure. 

#### _Challenges:_

Before adopting [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus), QCells relied on traditional surveying methods offered by third-party contractors. The “grueling work” as described by Ryan Rudick, Senior Civil Superindent at Qcells, was marked by inaccuracies, scheduling issues, and the constant worry about the operator’s precision in stakeout tasks.



#### _Solution:_

Upon implementing [Civ Robotics’ autonomous surveying system](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots) - CivDot+, Qcells experienced a paradigm shift, enabling the company to reclaim control over their project timelines, costs, and surveying precision.  

![Hanhwa_QCELLS_Kitsuki_Japan33.jpeg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/medium_Hanhwa_QCELLS_Kitsuki_Japan33_07106480d0.jpeg)
###### _Image Credits: QCells_

### Eliminate Reliance on Third-Party Contractors:
CivDot+ empowered Q Cells to in-house stakeout operations, cutting their dependence on third-party vendors. This transition led to substantial cost savings, with Q Cells now operating at just a third of their previous expenses.




### Double Up Stakeout Numbers and Quality: 
By using a traditional rover setup, Qcells managed a maximum of 250-300 stakeouts a day. Switching to CivDot+, they saw a significant improvement, now accomplishing 700 stakeouts daily. This substantial increase in capacity greatly enhanced their efficiency and quality control while reducing labor demands.



>_“With the traditional, 2-person rover crew, we were doing 250 to 300 stakeouts a day, and then also having to worry about quality. With CivDot+, I can do like 700 stakeouts with one person using the robot, and not have to worry about quality and consistency." - **Ryan Rudick, Senior Civil Superintendent, QCells.**_


### Enhance Precision and Consistency:
The manual stakeout process was grueling, fraught with the risk of human errors and difficulties in ensuring accurate alignments. CivDot+ offered a reliable solution that consistently provided precise stakeout results. This enhanced precision eliminated concerns about employee errors and made QCells' operations significantly more dependable and accurate.


CivDot+ emerged as a transformative solution for Qcells, addressing the primary challenges in construction surveying. It delivered increased speed, efficiency, and autonomy while significantly reducing costs. This synergy between Civ Robotics and QCells exemplifies the power of innovation in streamlining operations, providing unprecedented control, and delivering substantial savings, making Civ Robotics an invaluable partner in the construction industry.



Qcells_CivRobotics_CaseStudy.jpg

QCells overhauled operations with CivDot+ by eliminating third-party reliance, doubling daily stakeouts to 700 points, and ensuring precision. 

From Grueling Work to Remarkable Efficiency

[RPCS](https://www.rpcs.com/) is one of the leading solar contractors. They have enabled large pipelines of projects for developers, EPCs, and municipal utilities across the country.

By absorbing all the custom details, requirements, priorities, and challenges that 1,000-plus unique solar projects presented, RPCS knows how to deliver cost-effective solutions that will result in the highest quality operating assets for solar companies and utilities.

**Use Case:** [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus)

**Project Size:** < 20MW


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About RP Construction Services:

RP Construction Services (RPCS) is a leader in mechanical installation and project management for utility-scale solar projects. RCPS initially started as a small operation focused on solar projects in California's Central Valley and expanded across multiple states over the years. Their growth necessitated precise surveying to ensure the accurate placement of solar infrastructure like steel I-beams. 

#### _Challenges:_

Before adopting [Civ Robotics’ autonomous solution](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots), the company relied on local land surveying firms using conventional techniques, often resulting in project scheduling issues and delays.


#### _Solution:_

The introduction of Civ Robotics’ automated surveying system - [CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus), marked a transformative shift in RPCS’ operations and provided tangible benefits in terms of time, independence, and cost savings. 


![RPCS_solar farm.jpeg](https://civrobotics-images.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/RPCS_solar_farm_3f0e0c0527.jpeg)
###### _Image Credits: RPCS_

### Eliminate Costly Errors with Better Accuracy.
The traditional surveying methods often lead to measurement inaccuracies, resulting in misplaced infrastructure or the need for costly revisions. CivDot+, with its high precision and advanced technology, eliminated human errors. As a result, this newfound accuracy prevented expensive mistakes that would have otherwise led to project delays and additional expenditures.



### Cost Savings and ROI:
By leveraging CivDot+, RPCS eliminated surveying delays caused by 3rd parties and cut surveying costs by half. This cost savings is especially significant in the construction industry, where time delays and unexpected expenses can quickly accumulate. 


>_“If we factor in the cost, the robot essentially pays for itself after a single job, typically around 1,000 points. This is roughly a 40% to 50% reduction compared to traditional methods." - **Matt Benac, Director of Project Management.**_


### Schedule Reliability and Control:
Compared to traditional surveying methods, RPCS found CivDot+ to offer a significant advantage in terms of reliability. All they had to do was measure the control points and provide pile coordinates of the job site, and within minutes, CivDot+ was marking. This streamlined process gave RPCS greater control over their surveys and eliminated scheduling with external land surveyors. 


CivDot+ addressed RPCS’ challenges in construction surveying by offering speed, efficiency, cost savings, and greater autonomy. These benefits optimize construction processes and contribute to the bottom line, making Civ Robotics a valuable partner in the industry.



RPCS in the field.jpg

RP Construction Services transforms surveying with CivDot+ by redefining precision, savings, and autonomy for utility-scale solar projects.

Rapid Project Completion  on Your Schedule

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Revolutionizing Land Surveying

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Solar farms represent the peak of renewable energy innovation. Solar farms' layout plays an important role because of their massive scale, often spanning vast areas with hundreds of thousands of points to survey and plan.

Solar Farms

[The CivDot and CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots) are engineered to automate and redefine surveying in the solar landscape. With these autonomous robots, installers have increased the layout output by 8x and reduced costs by more than 50%.

From precise pre-drilling, pilling, and staging piles to installing fences, MV lines, and energy storage facilities, the robots are optimizing numerous aspects of solar farm development. 

What you lay out is what you build!


Civ Robotics in solar farms

Piling involves driving I beams into the ground to provide stability and support for suspended solar panels. 

Civ Robotics' GPS-equipped surveying robots help the crew swiftly identify where to pound the piles in the ground. It’s important that each pile is placed in the right spot with no room for error to ensure all solar arrays are aligned.

[CivDot+](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot-plus) is a great tool for pile layout alongside standard pile drivers. Even with a GPS-enabled pile driver, marking the pile coordinates has many benefits:

- Avoid looking at the screen while driving
- Improve worker safety
- Increase piling productivity by 10%
- Double verify pile position and type



Piling


Staging in solar farms involves distributing piles close enough to the pile coordinate before piling. The process is applicable and useful for both GPS pile drivers and non-GPS pile drivers.   

The piles come in varying lengths per the project specifications and are identified with different colors. 

[CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot) can mark locations for 3,000 piles per day within 4 inches accuracy, ensuring the right pile is  placed closer enough for the pile driver to pound. The CivDot takes the piles' design data, creates an optimized route, and marks the pile locations with spray paint. The operator can then install either colored flags, nails with whiskers, or stakes.


Carrying out pile staging activity with [CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot) increases the pile driving efficiency. CivDot has helped improve the survey time up to six times for our clients like Bechtel.



Staging Piles (Shakeout)

Solar farms take up space. For example, a 220 MW (roughly 1,100 acres) takes up as much as 833 American football fields. With the solar market booming, many new projects are challenged by difficult site terrains made of rocky, dense, and full of caliche soils.

Pre-drilling becomes a necessary step. Pre-drilling is the process of drilling through rocks and hard soil to replace them with softer material that is easy to pound through for piling.  

It’s important to have an accurate layout of drilling locations so that the crews can work more efficiently. CivDot+ has an accuracy of 3/100’ (8 mm) and can pin-point up to 1,200 points per day.


Pre-Drilling

An alternative for drilling and piling when the terrain is harder. Ground screws are used to cut through the most challenging soil conditions. It requires a precise layout like piling. 




Ground Screws

Medium-voltage (MV) lines are installed to connect the solar panels and distribute the electricity generated. Proper design, installation, and maintenance of MV lines are essential to maximize the performance and reliability of solar energy systems.

[CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot) can survey and lay out the location for trenching for MV lines. It can help prepare a real-scale blueprint with dashes for MV lines. 

MV Lines

Fencing around solar farms serves multiple purposes, from security and safety to ecological conservation. 

Civ Robotics’ robots help by efficiently locating points for fencing. The robots can accurately mark out the perimeter of the project, ensuring that the fence is properly placed without any gaps or overlaps. 


Fencing

Battery storage in solar farms refers to the use of rechargeable batteries to store excess energy generated by solar panels. This stored energy can then be used during peak demand or when there is less sunlight, making the solar farm more efficient and reliable.

Battery storage is placed on a leveled concrete slab, which requires creating a new foundation or framework. Civ Robotics shows construction workers where to cast the concrete for battery storage. 

Battery Storage

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Earthworks

Trenching is the process of digging narrow channels or trenches in the ground for diverse purposes, such as installing underground utilities, laying cables, pipes, or conduits, and creating drainage systems.

Civ Robotics’ autonomous surveying solution draws trench lines in realscale across various project types, job sites, and challenging environments. It offers a faster, safer, more accurate, and cost-effective solution. It helps measure the ground elevation and guides the field crew on how deep to dig.

Trenching

Topo or topographic surveying is the measurement and mapping of the physical features and contours of the land surface. Topo helps provide detailed information about the terrain, such as elevation changes and slopes. 

[Civ Robots](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots) measure the ground elevation  at every coordinate they mark. In addition, users can also enable Civ Robots to continuously measure the ground at predefined time and distance while in motion. 

TOPO

Cut and fill refers to the process of excavating earth material (cut) from one area of a site and using it to fill (fill) another area to achieve desired grades, slopes, or contours. 

[Civ Robots](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots) help with grade checking using delta elevation feature.


Cut & Fill

Grade checking is the process of ensuring the vertical accuracy of the finished surface grades or elevations according to design specifications. 

[CivDot](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdot) helps in grade checking with elevation differences. 

Grade Checking

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Ground Improvements

Commonly used in construction to prepare the ground for foundations, roadways, and other structures, dynamic compaction is a technique that densifies soils. It involves filling materials by dropping a heavy weight from a significant height. The process reduces the void in the soil, leading to increased density, strength, and stiffness. 

Civ Robotics’ [autonomous robots](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots) are useful in accurately laying out where to drop heavy weights in a common pattern of either 5’ by 5’ or 10’ by 10’

Dynamic Compaction

Ground improvement technique used to provide a short path for water to escape from soil. Wick drains are narrow, perforated, corrugated plastic or synthetic strips wrapped in a geotextile fabric. 

Civ Robotics’ precision in land surveying and layout is invaluable in planning and executing the installation of 10,000 to 100,000 wick drains, ensuring the ground improvement process is conducted efficiently and accurately.  



Wick Drain

A technique used to enhance the strength, stiffness, and overall performance of soil. Particularly useful in areas with compressible soil conditions, columns improve the load-bearing capacity of the ground and reduce settlement. Some examples of columns include Controlled modulus columns, Stone columns, and bi-modulus columns. 


Civ Robotics’ technology helps in the planning and installation of columns by offering millimeter-level accuracy in land surveying and layout coordinates. Precise placement of columns is crucial for improving soil stability and support for future constructions. 


Columns

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Airport striping is an important part of the airfield’s visual aids. The primary goal of these markings is to enhance visibility and reduce runway violations

Airport Striping

[CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash) is used for pre-marking runways, taxiways, and apron markings. CivDash allows crew members to work from a safe distance (up to 100’ away). Instead of marking points every 20 feet, lay striping area with lines.

[CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash) can mark with a sub-inch accuracy and work four times faster than the traditional, manual method.  

Airport striping often occurs at night, when air traffic is reduced. In these time-sensitive scenarios, every second matters, and CivDash’s ability to work quickly and accurately is invaluable.

Airports

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Road striping, often referred to as road marking, is a fundamental aspect of road construction and maintenance. It is an intricate process that requires accurate placement and clear visibility. 

With the manual process of road marking, which requires pulling strings and measuring tapes, contractors achieve approximately 0.7 miles of markings per hour.

Road

[CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash), a robot built for roads, automates the road layout workflow. It can mark up to 25 miles of lines in a single workday, maintaining a sub-inch accuracy.

- Mitigate risks and ensure worker safety with remote operations away from live traffic
- Equip the striping crew with full-scale drawings on the ground instead of points every 20’ for quicker, seamless striping, and say goodbye to pulling tapes.  
- Increase reliability and eliminate costly rework.



Road Marking

Guardrails are protective barriers placed along roadsides and elevated platforms to prevent accidents and falls, enhancing safety for pedestrians and vehicles alike.

[CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash) helps by efficiently locating points and lines. The robot can accurately locate and mark points, dashes and solid lines along the desired path for installation, ensuring guardrails and barriers are positioned accurately meeting safety standards and regulatory requirements.


Guardrails and Barriers

Curb and gutter form the edges of roadways, with the curb serving as a raised barrier and the gutter providing a channel for stormwater runoff. They help maintain road structure, improve drainage, and guide traffic flow efficiently.

[CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash) can assist in laying out curb and gutter by accurately mapping the desired alignment and elevation of the roadway edges.

Curb and Gutter

Roads

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Parking lot striping is managing and organizing parking lot spaces for better traffic flow. It involves measuring and applying lines, symbols, and directives to surface parking areas. 



Parking Lots Striping

Precision is the key to parking lot striping. Clear markings help prevent accidents by guiding vehicles and pedestrians, driving lanes, pedestrian crossings, and loading zones.

Parking lots require constant restriping, with CivDash contractors can create and save the mission once and re-stripe as needed.

Civ Robotics’ robot [CivDash](https://www.civrobotics.com/robots/civdash) is designed to ensure sub-inch accuracy, eliminating errors. As a result:
- It surpasses traditional methods in both precision and efficiency.
- It allows for projects to begin striping sooner thanks to the increase in layout speed.
- Ensures worker safety with remote operations.


Success Stories