Direct-to-Cloud Cellular Technology

The Problem with Traditional Monitoring

Most concrete monitoring systems on the market today rely on Bluetooth, WiFi gateways, or specialized radio networks (like Sigfox) to transmit data from the job site to the cloud. Each of these approaches has significant drawbacks:

• Bluetooth-based systems require someone to physically walk to each sensor with a phone or tablet to collect data. On large sites with dozens of pours, this is time-consuming and impractical.
• WiFi gateway systems require installing and powering Gateway hardware on site. If the gateway loses power or is moved, data collection stops entirely.
• Sigfox/LoRa networks depend on third-party network coverage that may not exist in rural or remote locations. They also add recurring subscription costs.

CONTEMP's Approach: Direct Cellular

CONTEMP eliminates all intermediary devices. The monitoring hardware has a built-in cellular modem that connects directly to the mobile network — the same network your phone uses.

How It Works

1. Sensor readings — CONTEMP continuously measures temperature from 3 channels (ambient + 2 external sensors).
2. Data buffering — Readings are stored locally on the device, ensuring no data loss even if cellular signal is temporarily unavailable.
3. Cellular transmission — At configurable intervals, the device connects to the cellular network and transmits all buffered data to the cloud.
4. Cloud processing — The CONTEMP platform processes the data, applies maturity calculations, checks alarm thresholds, and updates the real-time dashboard.
5. Notifications — If any alarm condition is triggered (differential temperature, min/max exceeded, maturity target reached), the platform immediately sends notifications to all assigned users.

Key Advantages

• No site visits required — Monitor concrete temperature and maturity from your office, home, or anywhere with internet access.
• No additional hardware costs — No gateways, repeaters, or hub devices to purchase and maintain.
• Works in remote locations — Anywhere with cellular coverage (which covers 99%+ of construction sites in North America).
• Automatic data sync — If connectivity is lost, the device buffers data and syncs automatically when the signal returns.
• Battery-optimized — Smart syncing: frequency adjusts based on sensor activity. When sensors are disconnected, syncing drops to every 12 hours to preserve battery life.
• IP67 ruggedized — Enclosure is dust-tight and can handle temporary water submersion, built for the harsh reality of construction sites.

Comparison with Alternatives

Built for Real-World Conditions

CONTEMP is designed by construction professionals and tested in real-world environments:

• Operating temperature: Down to −36°C with Energizer Lithium Ultimate AA batteries.
• Enclosure: IP67 rated — dust-tight and submersion-resistant.
• Power: 4×AA batteries, field-replaceable without tools.
• Sensors: High-accuracy digital sensors with optional NIST traceable certification.