10 technologies that will change the construction industry in 2019
The construction industry has been evolving with the influence of modern technology such as workforce management and data analytics. During last year, construction technology investment has grown by 30% according to GenieBelt, which costs $1.05 billion, the estimated value of the sector in the year 2020.
The construction industry has been characterized by being very traditional and resistant to change, but many emerging technologies have promising applications in building projects. In this infographic, we will discuss ten different techniques that will transform the capabilities of the construction industry in 2019. Let’s consider the benefits of these technologies:
1. Augmented Reality
With augmented reality (AR), a particular lens can overlay essential information during project site visits or when inspecting existing buildings. This is very useful during all stages of the building life cycle: design, construction, maintenance, and renovations. With AR, unbalanced structures and safety risks before occurring can be identified accurately because of the built-in sensors and footages that updates the progress of the construction operations.
2. Construction Software and Data Ecosystem
Before, worksites have a hard time relaying real-time information and data about the number of materials, hazards, and other operations-related data in different sections inside the site. Today, real-time collaboration software is expected to function as the digital backbone for the construction process from start to finish.
3. Drone-Based Supervision and Inspection
Since some areas of the worksite are not visible for supervision and inspection, a flexible and speedy technology has emerged which is the drone. Drones can be programmed to sweep a large project in a matter of hours. This particular tool can gather data volumes that would require many days or weeks to be collected by foot.
4. Bricklaying Robots
Recent accomplishments in using robots to lay bricks captured headlines in 2018, and it appears the same will happen in 2019. An end-to-end bricklaying robot in Perth, Australia, achieved a world first by constructing a home in less than three days. Civil and structural engineers also confirmed the building met local codes, showing how the innovation is ripe for commercialization. Fastbrick Robotics is the company associated with that feat, but it’s not the only enterprise with such technology.
5. Artificial Intelligence on Workforce Management
The construction industry is characterized by its high exposure to risk and uncertainty, but this can start to change with AI services. By shifting from a reactive to an AI-powered proactive approach in project risk management, construction companies can reduce costs while improving safety.
6. Advanced Uses for GPS
GPS tracking solutions are now being used in more creative and resourceful ways, facilitating the quick and accurate collection of data. For big construction projects with multiple heavy machinery and equipment deployed across the site, GPS can significantly reduce the hassle of locating and determining their current status.
7. Zero-Emission Equipment
Construction companies this 2019 become primarily focused on investing in emissions-free products. In Oslo, Norway, a couple of 2019 projects could pave the way for a mainstream transition to nearly silent, emissions-free equipment instead of those running with diesel fuel. Most industries are now making sustainable and harmless operations their next objective to not cause hazardous waste that can harm the ecosystem.
8. Wearable Technology
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is one of the essentials of every people inside the worksite. Today, wearable safety technology is expected to play a substantial role in boosting safety on site and monitor the project progress efficiently. Wearing this kind of advanced safety equipment will enable workers to detect possible disruptions in their operations, which further ensures their safety and productivity.
9. Prefabricated and Modular Buildings
Prefabricated and modular construction is a rising trend because of the several advantages it presents. Modular construction can save companies a lot of time and money because units can be built off-site. As such, contractors do not have to worry about the severe weather affecting the structural quality of the building. These units also recycle material they don’t end up using or even excess material. This helps cut back on waste which is currently one of the top issues in construction management.
10. Building Information Modeling
Building information modeling (BIM) is another growing construction industry trend that will carry over into 2019. It is a process of generating and managing computer representations of the projects before they are built. Architects and engineers can use the models to show how building materials will hold up over time, while building managers can also create maintenance schedules with BIM models.
To learn more about the different technologies that can increase safety and workforce productivity on your construction site, you may visit us at www.progressivemy.com.
