There is an evident trend in the construction industry to embrace the use of digital technology. There are technologies such as AI, machine learning, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and Building Information Modeling (BIM) among others that have brought automation in repetitive and time-consuming processes. This wave of automation is leading to better productivity, efficiency, and safety in construction projects with lesser errors and expenditure.
Advantages of Automation in the Construction Industry
There are several key benefits that automation brings to the construction sector:
- Improved Safety: Some of the construction tasks that may be physically challenging or lead to fatalities when done manually can be effectively automated to ensure that workers are protected from injury or death. Exoskeletons and automatons perform the lifting of heavy objects and work in hazardous areas.
- Enhanced Productivity: Automation helps in the fast and efficient doing of repetitive and routine work. Robots and automated tools on construction sites enhance efficiency multiple times more than the purely human workforce.
- Reduced Costs: Minimizing the utilization of manpower, time, and effort, and taking care of repetitive tasks and maintenance gives a considerable amount of money that was formerly spent on those aspects. Construction Cost Estimator tools also enhance estimates.
- Better Quality Control: The use of drones and image analysis for quality control enables the construction of structures in compliance with set standards and architectural plans, free from mistakes.
Emerging Construction Automation Technologies
Several cutting-edge technologies are making inroads into the construction sector:
Construction Cost Estimator
Integrated cost estimating for construction involves using data in the form of cost databases and libraries of construction tasks and learning algorithms to estimate the cost of construction and the amount of material that will be used. Some key examples include:
- GCC Estimator by Graphisoft is a BIM-based takeoff software that estimates quantities and costs based on BIM models. It works in perfect harmony with the models created in ARCHICAD 3D building models.
- Real-time cost control on site is possible in Stack Construction Technologies since they provide cost estimates as the structure is being built. They employ computer vision and artificial intelligence to monitor construction progress and spending.
Such tools come in handy to Construction Estimating Services in the generation of bids, in reviewing the design changes, and in managing project expenditures.
CAD Drafter
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design which is used to produce practical technical drawings and models for construction. Former drafters who used to work manually have now been replaced by those who use applications such as AutoCAD, Revit, MicroStation, and others.
Benefits of CAD drafting in construction include:
- Higher levels of draught accuracy, flexibility, and enlargements.
- The design cycle time and modification time are reduced
- Improved models where actual designs can be visualized.
- The goal of sharing of drawings: fostering collaboration through the use of technology.
Therefore, Freelancer CAD Drafter is highly involved in the design process of construction projects in professions such as architecture, MEP services, Structural engineering, etc.
3D Printing Construction
3D printing technology is revolutionizing onsite building construction in a few ways:3D printing technology is revolutionizing onsite building construction in a few ways:
- Molds, jigs, and fixtures produced through 3D printing promote construction efficiency.
- It is possible to 3D print whole concrete constructions cheaper and faster using enormous 3D printers on the construction site.
- 3D printers build swift modular construction using panels and other components fabricated and printed elsewhere.
3D construction printing minimizes construction waste, enables design intricacies, and optimizes the material delivery process in construction.
Autonomous Construction Vehicles
Heavy construction vehicles such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes among others are self-driven whereby site preparation, earthwork, and material handling are automated in construction. Besides, avoiding injuries to the workforce it also boosts usage of equipment and efficiency.
Some of the companies designing and developing autonomous construction equipment equipped with sensors, GPS, and site geospatial data include Built Robotics and Volvo CE. These robomobiles reduce material supply and allow constant work at the site.
Automating the construction industry
Construction sites will look very different as the adoption of automation and robotics continues to rise across the world. The global construction automation and robotics market, as estimated by ResearchandMarkets.com, will grow from $8.4 billion in 2021 to above $25 billion in 2026.
Cost Savings
Scholars in construction anticipate that automation could reduce construction costs globally by up to $1.4 trillion within the next 10 years. Technology trends that will significantly reduce costs include construction estimating software and 3D printing.
Business Model Disruption
New technology players are likely to enter with new business models to tap the construction sector revenue pool increasing by $1.5 trillion. Construction companies are forced to automate or partner with emerging industry technology disruptors to stay relevant.
Reshaping Workforce Dynamics
While certain low and mid-skill jobs such as welding, and bricklaying may be made redundant, construction roles that involve the supervision of robots, their maintenance, data analysis, and the like will be generated. If and when automation reaches scale, the transition can be seamless if individuals engage in anticipatory re-skilling.
Regulatory Upgradation Needed
Some of the policy regulations concerning autonomous construction vehicles, 3D printed buildings, and offsite modular construction will need to be changed to enable contractors to adopt automation technologies at a faster rate without compromising on quality and safety.
Conclusion
The automation of construction is currently only at its initial stage but is quickly growing. With smart vehicles, robots, 3D printers and even AI software being incorporated in constructions productivity and capabilities will increase exponentially while costs come down. Construction has always been deemed to be behind when it comes to things digital but currently, it is set to become one of the most technologically advanced industries within this decade. I would hope that all companies can follow this transition successfully to become market leaders while those lagging could cease to exist. Although there are some overlaps in skill requirements, automation holds the potential to make construction firms more affordable, effective, and efficient than before. It can, therefore, be deduced that the future of the construction business around the world is bright and brilliant with automation as well as technology illuminating the path to the future.
