control.
That’ s where below-the-hook load controllers can help.
“ As modules and panels become heavier and more geometrically complex, they see increased wind loading and rotational instability,” said Caleb“ Rosie” Rosenberger, global account manager who leads product training at Vita Industrial, maker of the Vita Load Navigator.
The Load Navigator is a wirelessly controlled, battery-powered below-the-hook device that uses high-powered fans to provide rotational control of the load and help with precise placement.
“ The system monitors more than a thousand data points per second and acts to control the load rather than react after unwanted motion has started,” said Rosenberger.
In many cases, he says, that kind of device can reduce the need for taglines.
“ We are seeing this become more popular in applications, from modular construction to civil projects, renewable energy, oil and gas work, facade-panel installation, transportation, high-rise construction and many others,” said Rosenberger.
Project Example One project that shows how
Two Vita Load Navigators in cantilevered RocketLever configuration use fan driven air flow to deliver the precise control needed to install modular wall panels.
traditional and modular construction can work together is a new hospital going up in Chippewa Falls, Wis.
The project’ s general contractor, the Boldt Company, is stick-building about 70 % of the complex.
The other 30 % is being supplied as finished modules manufactured off site by Bildt, a new division of Boldt that is dedicated just to making modules.
That approach allows controlled manufacturing conditions, reduces on-site congestion and improves schedule reliability so the hospital will be able to open sooner.
The modules arrive at the construction site complete with built-in plumbing, electrical, mechanical systems, fire protection, casework and final paint.
As a module arrives on site, a crane picks it off the delivery truck and sets it into place with precision.
The sole crane on the job is a 500-ton Tadano AC7.450-1 all-terrain( AT) rented complete with operator from Reynolds Rigging & Crane Service.
“ It’ s a turnkey rental,” said Amy Marten, vice president of business development at Reynolds.
Boldt and Reynolds selected the sevenaxle AT because it has the capacity to make all of the project’ s lifts from one location, setting the 36,000- pound modules at radii to 110 feet on 163 feet of boom.
“ That saved time and money by eliminating additional ground prep, relocation and multiple lift plan locations,” said Marten.
The new full-service medical facility is scheduled to open this September.
As construction modules grow larger and projects more ambitious, you can bet the crane industry will keep developing equipment that meets the new needs.
18 May 15, 2026 www. contractorshotline. com