Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have been transformative technologies across industries. They have eliminated redundant processes, increased efficiency and reduced errors. In the construction sector, AI and ML have found incredible usability, especially in engineering projects.
The industry faces challenges such as excessive costs and deadlines, safety, labor shortages, resource management, carbon targets, etc. But with AI, all these challenges are being addressed effectively.
With the advanced computational capabilities of AI and the experiential learning capabilities of machine learning algorithms, many complex design processes are being simplified, allowing companies to reduce the time between the drawing board and actual construction.
Benefits of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Engineering Projects
AI and ML have made the engineering design process convenient and exceptionally accurate. Specifically, AI and ML have redefined mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) and fire protection (FP) design processes. They are often hidden, but they are the most important part of the construction.
Faster design generation
Artificial intelligence in engineering projects is helping to generate MEP designs with maximum accuracy. With the help of technology, MEP engineers are able to develop detailed layouts for your plans with unparalleled accuracy in short periods of time.
Effective Design
AI computational capabilities simplify the MEP design process. It can design entire 3D models without errors, a task that is not accurate even when multiple design teams work together. Furthermore, with AI, designs can be automated for routine projects but optimized for specific project requirements.
Cost forecasting and budget reduction
An AI and ML tool can design an entire building by identifying the location of each MEP equipment and the type of equipment needed. AI-generated direct MEP layout uses fewer materials than conventional methods, significantly lowering costs. Additionally, it can predict material costs based on market competency and project scale.
Predictive models can also determine project timelines, understand project status, and set realistic deadlines, helping you avoid overbudgeting.
Construction Production Process
With accurate layouts, cost forecasts, resource management analysis, scheduling, etc., AI makes construction as needs-based as possible. Thus, using an AI and ML tool will lead to maximizing efficiency and reducing human effort.
AI tools that make the engineering design process more efficient
Many AI tools are being used in the construction industry. But the next two were particularly impactful on engineering projects in construction.
AI-based Business Information Modeling (BIM)
Conceptualizing, designing and planning are the critical elements of a construction project. Engineers, designers and architects take long periods to process architectural statistics, design variations and other parameters until they come up with an efficient and economical project. But AI-based BIM has revolutionized the process and drastically reduced the time to start and deliver the project.
AI-powered BIM uses a database of previously built projects and generates alternative designs. It makes numerous permutations based on the set requirements and offers better design options.
The advantage of a BIM is that engineers can input much larger sets of parameters than they can handle manually and perform more permutations to choose the best design. Engineers can input design objectives such as spatial information, cost limits, materials, etc. into the BIM tool. And thanks to the Machine Learning component, a BIM learns from experience and becomes sharper in delivering better projects with each passing project.
computer vision AI
Computer Vision AI or CV AI is an advanced AI tool that makes predictions, detects defects, provides insights, classifies objects, and does much more based on visual data. It processes images and videos the same way the human brain processes visual information. The system can be retrained to include new variables, new information and feedback to make better predictions.
One of the main advantages of a CV AI is that it is camera independent, which means you can use any imaging technology to collect visual data and the tool processes it. Engineers are incorporating advanced technologies like drones, 2D and 3D imaging technologies, and robotics into CV AI to provide accurate engineering designs.
CV AI robots with 3D cameras capture real-time images on the construction site. They move autonomously, cross-reference the information collected with BIM data and predict the progress of the work. These robots have been particularly useful in promoting construction safety and structural integrity by identifying errors in the early phase of construction.
Final thoughts
The impact of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is felt across industries. While the adoption of AI technology in the construction sector has been slower, it has been transformative so far.
High design accuracy using AI enables the construction of safer buildings. AI is helping to better target electrical and plumbing systems in buildings. It is making cost-effective project forecasts, taking into account various parameters, helping to reduce costs and delays affecting the construction sector.