JLG Unveils Advanced Drywall Robot and Smart Construction Innovations at CONEXPO-CON/AGG
Revolutionizing Job Sites with Connected, Autonomous Equipment Featuring Canvas Robotics
JLG Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation and a leading manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, is set to demonstrate its cutting-edge vision for smart, interconnected construction sites at CONEXPO-CON/AGG. Located in North Hall, booth #N12308, JLG will showcase live, interactive demonstrations highlighting its innovative Canvas Robotics drywall robot, emphasizing robotics-driven productivity, quality enhancement, and improved worker safety.
Interactive Demonstrations Highlight Collaborative Smart Equipment
At the heart of JLG’s exhibit are live demonstrations where multiple machines operate in unison to simulate a futuristic construction environment. Two scissor lifts will be tasked with transporting and positioning structural components, while a boom lift equipped with a welding tool executes precise welds at elevated heights. This scenario exemplifies how connected machinery can communicate and coordinate autonomously, enabling a single operator to manage several devices simultaneously, thereby streamlining workflow and boosting efficiency.
Central to this ecosystem is JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet platform, which leverages integrated IoT technology and a proprietary Bluetooth mesh network to deliver seamless, real-time connectivity across the job site. This wireless network forms the backbone of a smart construction environment, facilitating enhanced operational control and data-driven decision-making.
Although the demonstration focuses on structural welding, the ClearSky platform is versatile, supporting a broad spectrum of construction tasks such as material handling, glazing, painting, and surface preparation. Additionally, the connected system enables predictive maintenance, remote machine operation, and optimized equipment utilization, all of which contribute to reduced downtime and increased project profitability.
“Our technological evolution at JLG transcends traditional height access solutions, moving towards comprehensive job site execution,” explained Shashank Bhatia, Chief Technology Officer and Global Vice President of Engineering at JLG. “By integrating connectivity, automation, and robotics, we are transforming equipment into intelligent systems capable of handling repetitive and physically demanding tasks, thereby empowering skilled workers and enhancing safety and productivity.”
Introducing the Canvas Robotics Drywall Robot: A Leap Forward in Interior Finishing
Another centerpiece of JLG’s presentation is the Canvas Robotics drywall robot, an advanced, worker-assisted machine engineered to revolutionize interior drywall finishing. This intelligent platform combines robotics and automation to perform multiple finishing operations, including Level 4 spray and sanding, with remarkable consistency and efficiency.
The Canvas robot is designed to significantly reduce manual labor by cutting wall-finishing touchpoints by up to 40%, which not only accelerates project timelines but also enhances finish quality. Its ergonomic design minimizes physical strain on workers by reducing overhead tasks, thereby protecting shoulders and backs from repetitive stress injuries.
Equipped with dust and silica capture technology, the robot improves air quality and job site safety, addressing critical health concerns in construction environments. Its compact, battery-powered design features all-wheel steering and autonomous navigation, enabling it to maneuver easily in confined indoor spaces and operate continuously throughout a full workday on a single charge.
Integrated analytics provide contractors with real-time insights into machine performance and site conditions, facilitating better productivity forecasting, scheduling, and resource management. This data-driven approach supports smarter decision-making and project execution.
“Our commitment is to build the future of construction by enhancing today’s equipment with connectivity and robotics,” Bhatia added. “By layering these technologies onto proven platforms like ClearSky Smart Fleet, we empower our customers to meet the evolving demands of modern job sites with greater adaptability and efficiency.”
