Sound Localization Framework for Construction Site Monitoring

This study developed a construction sound localization framework (CSLF) using the time delay of the arrival technique and the generalized cross-correlation phase transform. Based on the spatial characteristics of construction sites, this study identified sound-source locations at construction sites to overcome the limitations of existing sensor-based localization methods. Verification tests were performed on the CSLF in both interior and exterior environments. The interior tests showed that the average error was less than 0.5 m for each axis; which is 0.26, 0.27, and 0.36 m for the x-, y-, and z-axes, respectively. The exterior tests conducted at an actual construction site showed average x-, y-, and z-axis errors of 0.19, 0.21, and 0.24 m, respectively. These results show that the CSLF can effectively identify sound locations at construction sites within an arm’s length. Furthermore, CSLF is applicable on the sound data categorization-related research. The system can categorize an accidental or abnormal sound and locate the sound source for safety management at the construction site. It can also be utilized to monitor construction productivity by categorizing and locating the machinery-related sound sources.