Tech giants have completely transformed the landscape of engineering and construction projects. From aerial drone mapping to digital blueprints, to 3D imaging and managing every facet of the project without even laying a brick, it has transformed the entire new perspective of design and construction.
Here are some innovations that have revolutionized the construction industry, making it one of the slowest growing sectors and the most exciting and fastest.
Mechanization:
Dating back 20 to 30 years, one of the most significant and extraordinary innovations of the time was the invention of hydraulic and pneumatic devices, which have now completely changed the way people work. These technologies have reduced labor and working time, which is very important in large-scale projects.
The cherry picker, concrete mixers, cranes and excavator drill that were introduced in the early 20th century have now become the most powerful tools in the construction industry. There were hand shovels, wheelbarrows and work animals which are now replaced by the internal combustion engine.
Previously, measurements were taken manually, thus increasing the risk of errors and more resources. However, automation changed everything. Today, there are laser-based survey equipment and other high-tech equipment that offers limited access, drilling rigs and other equipment to bring precision in everything.
Software programs:
Task management software is designed to keep everything on schedule and increase productivity by bringing everything in real time. These technologies focus on ideation, budgeting, invoicing, and time management to streamline the project from start to finish. The most common techniques used in construction projects are:
BIM (Building Information Management): BIM offers the ability to create a 3D construction plan to align the construction schedule. It is quite versatile, thus helping architects, contractors and engineers work in fine details to design and build everything using a computer model and professional databases.
This technology also allows all stakeholders and project managers to work on the detailed 3D model, including functional building systems such as HVAC, aesthetics of windows, roofs and walls, as well as other electrical installations unanimously. It also allowed them to visualize designs, identify interferences, and find errors while working on a project.
Working collaboratively also reduces time, saves resources and minimizes conflicts to rectify the plan before executing it on the ground. BIM design standards:
- 4D-BIM will add visual clarity to a construction plan
- 5D-BIM will add cutting-edge capabilities to 3D BIM for cost and maintenance
- 6D-BIM includes everything from lifecycle management and offers a lot of value to large projects.
Computer-aided design (CAD):
CAD will provide all construction details before the project is carried out. Engineers use this software to create a database for production, increase productivity, and present the design through proper documentation. It will improve the procurement and performance system, allowing issues to be addressed before physical work begins. For example, creating a two-dimensional plan and section drawing was previously difficult for architects and builders.
Furthermore, CAD will reduce the chance of errors and architects will not lose budget. Different types of CAD software architects use are:
- 2D systems for technical drawings
- 21/2 D system for CNC controlled machines
- 3D system for wire system, volumetric and solid models
Project Applications:
Gone are the days when architects piled up files and documents to show the design of each room with parameters and dimensions. However, today, the main players are app-laden screens!
These devices include planning apps that allow customers and builders to make and change plans digitally. These apps also allow parties to use the same source of information so that no one is left out of the construction process. There are now real-time analytics so people can track performance, working conditions and cost of production to report to authorities. Plus, there are no reports or paperwork, making project managers keep things on budget and straightforward.
Off-site manufacturing:
Assembling all job-related components piece by piece on site is complicated and affects project efficiency. However, offsite manufacturing has made things easy and efficient. For example, a pump unit builder that was manufactured off-site will benefit the site to improve productivity and efficiency.
Off-site manufacturing also saves costs and time by assembling items such as pump units, compressors and instrument panels off-site that would otherwise be difficult to assemble due to tooling, space constraints and costs.
By keeping your machinery off-site, you will also need less labor and training. The number of hands needed to build a machine on site can reduce your workforce by up to 75%, which increases the time needed to build the actual site. Heavy machinery can also test nearby residents, who have to listen to constant banging and buzzing noises.
Furthermore, it is difficult to teach workers how to set up and disassemble machines, as your workers have to disassemble and rebuild these machines several times a week. It is best to buy an external machine, like those from Revelation Machinery, that is robust, reliable and low cost.
RTS (Robotic Total Stations):
RTS allows contractors and project associates to perform layout tasks remotely and more efficiently than the traditional conventional mechanical system. In this, you only need one operator to perform everything from calculations to installations and other things. Plus, with RTS software and equipped tablet, you can control everything remotely from a distance. It will offer benefits such as faster and more accurate layouts, improved quality checks, increased accuracy, increased number of inspections, reduced rework, real-time data accessibility, and faster job completion.
On-site protective equipment:
On-site safety has now become one of the paramount things, which is also supported by legal regulations. Although personal protective equipment does not represent a major advancement in the construction technology industry, it has contributed enormously to safety and health compared to previous years.
Improved and advanced headsets, halo lights, respective uniforms, and safety glasses have undergone major changes, transforming outdated equipment into modernized equipment.
Drones are also on the line promoting security and regular surveillance to keep an eye on everything. They easily reach a place that is not accessible to humans. They also help protect against on-site theft and other accidents.
The Internet:
The Internet has completely revolutionized the construction industry and has had a huge impact on the way today's architects design, build and build projects. From RTS, 3D laser technology to surveying equipment, cloud-based tools and more, it's all on the internet. Furthermore, the Internet allows architects, contractors and other stakeholders to exchange ideas and communicate before construction.
What else is coming:
Technological advances have not yet reached their peak; there are plenty more jaw-dropping things in line. You will likely see kinetic floor technology, which will help with electricity generation and more.
Technologies also help manage risks in the construction industry before construction even begins, thereby increasing efficiency and maintaining a safe work environment. It has evolved across many industries, and if companies adapt now to these technological advancements, they will become leaders in the coming years.
Guest post written by Barbara Carranza
