The construction industry remains to be one of today’s most vibrant and thriving sectors. And with the adoption of more modern technology, you can only expect that it will continue to grow in the near future. Here is a quick look at some of the top technologies bound to change the construction game and pave way for a brighter and more connected future for the industry.
Mobile Apps and Devices
Mobile devices are no doubt the most widely adopted in the construction industry out of all the latest technologies today. Thanks to their easy to use apps, mobile devices give workers the chance to document, access, edit, and share crucial project details even when on the jobsite.
Laser Scanning
This technology provides helpful efficiency for the assessment of as-built conditions or jobsites. Field measurements done using laser scanners can capture extremely detailed geometric data in point cloud data form. Laser scanners are notably accurate to show the real conditions of a facility or space.
BIM
BIM is a technology widely used in the construction industry. The latest versions integrate more information to the model. Technological advancements also allowed connecting BIM models to field devices where productivity is enhanced through real time sharing.
Drones
Drones or unmanned aerial vehicles feature cameras used for years for collection of information in areas that don’t allow human access. Images captured by drones can support site inspections and assessment and further improve the project team’s understanding of as-built conditions and progress. Drones can also come in handy for monitoring deliveries, the workforce, and logistics.
Robotic Constructors and 3D Printers
Extruded concrete, plastics, as well as other materials are now used to form not only building components but even buildings as a whole. Robotic arms can be used together with 3D printers for printing different forms. Robots can also be use for brick placement, demotion, excavation, and many other tasks.
GPS Tracking
Companies that manage an equipment fleet find GPS tracking extremely helpful. GPS hardware installed in vehicles can communicate with the home base via satellite to allow manages to check their vehicles’ location in real time.
Wearables
Wearable devices are also potentially helpful in the construction industry and these include smart hardhats and glasses that can offer visualization, mixed and augmented reality. These tools for visualization can render improvements in safety, accuracy, and efficiency. Other wearables like health trackers, smart watches and technology-improved safety vests are used for monitoring the movements and motions of workers to reduce risk, enhance safety, and increase productivity.
IoT and Big Data
A theme that underlies all of the technologies above is the looming connection of numerous construction activities that are isolated from others at the moment. Talks about big data in the industry right now are focused on asset management. Contractors now use technology for monitoring fuel maintenance and usage, equipment usage, with construction equipment manufacturers now putting their investments in intelligent machines.
Modern technology is revolutionizing the construction industry in more ways than one to allow quicker, safer, and more effective projects. This is a positive and welcomed step for the industry’s future.
