7 Technologies that will shape the AEC industry in 2022, and beyond.
The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is evolving with newer technologies every day, and if you are even closely related to the space, it is important to keep track. While there are a lot of existing technologies that have been generating momentum, the ones that we cover in this blog intend to make the process of construction smarter, more streamlined, and futuristic. This blog intends to give you an insight into what lies ahead. So read on!
The AEC industry is changing fast. Since the economy tanked in 2008 and large companies started laying off their skilled workers, a major shift has been happening in how construction jobs are being done. To stay competitive in this new industry space, you will need to be proactive and adjust because the change is happening all around you. Some of the changes will force your company to change how it does business and others will be opportunities for growth. In order to survive, you need to know what technologies are driving these changes and how they can empower businesses that are agile enough to adapt.
While we're still a long way from making a perfect world, there are technological innovations that are making a big impact on the AEC industry today. These technologies will shape the way we do business in years to come. Let's go through some of them in this blog.
1. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software
BIM was born a long time ago and although not adopted as fast as once believed, in its mature, modern version is essential for a complete transformation in the AEC industry.
BIM enables better collaboration between individuals working on the same model. Each individual belonging to a different field can make modifications to the shared model rather than breaking the model into multiple versions of 2D drawing suitable to their requirement. With BIM, the model is transforming simultaneously as various processes are contributing to it.
BIM can detect if there is a clash error and can provide the whole picture of the project. BIM is a crucial tool in problem-solving and allows errorless design planning.
2. Drones
With costs continuing to drop for laser scanners and drones, 2022 will thrive in rich real-world data. Architects or site planning personnel are inclined toward using drones as a real-time observation tool. Drones are one of the most widely used technologies because they can:
conduct accurate and quick site surveys
be cost-effective as compared to aerial imaging
provide high-resolution imaging, interactive or topographical, or 3D maps & models
inspect even the sheltered places on the location, e.g., bridges or small constructions around tall buildings.
monitor job site & workers
3. Virtual Reality
Virtual reality can enhance the process in the sphere of AEC and assist in understanding complex projects. Imagine that your BIM Software has created a building design, but you could only see the 2D view. Fascinated by the 3D viewing of VR, many construction companies have introduced 360-degree views to enable teams and clients to walk around the unit virtually.
The 3D view offers a more realistic view of the project. By combining virtual reality with BIM even complex projects can be explained in a better manner.
4.Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence has been helping humanity to evolve and transform the way things work technologically. It has been instrumental in taking the construction sector forward too, with the benefits like safety, accuracy, speed, etc. AI can track real-time interchange between machines, tools, and site workers. It can alert Site Managers of potential safety issues or other errors well in advance.
Larger corporations prefer to build their own AI tools to assist in decision-making processes. Integrating AI into auditing the current operations and finding new opportunities is a great idea.
5. Wearable Technology
On any construction site, the safety of workers and visitors is most important. Construction companies are always on the lookout for better technologies to eliminate risks at construction sites.
Wearable Technology devices such as helmets, belts, or boots can help minimize the risks. Some of the most advanced wearables are:
Smartwatches - monitor the health of the workers, can detect falls & alert the authorities, and can be used as a hands-free communication tool among the workers.
Smart Boots- sense the pressure in the event of a fall or shock and alert the authorities. Smart Boots can also track the worker's location and can be charged by simply them walking around the site.
Smart Helmets or Smart Hard Hats - Smart helmets used at construction sites can monitor exhaustion and stop workers' microsleeps. Hard hats can be a great tool to detect collisions too.
AR Glasses- AR glasses can be used to detect edges & hazardous material at construction sites and have a built-in safety protocol display.
6. 3D Printing
3D Printing offers the convenience of printing materials right at the construction site. Leveraging 3D printing can save storage and transportation costs and reduce waste. The only hurdle in using 3D printing at the construction site is that mass production is still a bit difficult, but with all the developments in the field of 3D printing, we are sure even mass production will be easier soon.
7. Exoskeleton Suits
Exoskeleton Suits have metal skeletons attached with a motorized muscle. Exoskeletons enhance the wearer's strength, and it's as if they bear the burden of the heavy objects while the human hand is lifting those. Using these robotic suits at a construction site will reduce casualties and enhance compliance.
Conclusion
The future of the AEC sector looks very promising, especially with the introduction and maturation of some of the technologies we discussed above. Their ability to improve design, enhance presentations and protect construction workers in the field are some of the most exciting developments that lay before us.
Carnera’s expertise in the AEC industry can specifically help you adopt these forward-looking and innovative technologies in your digital ecosystem/organization. With successful implementations that use advanced technologies like real-time image processing, OCR, Machine Learning, etc. Carnera has been assisting AEC SaaS companies, realtors, entrepreneurs, and construction firms with their toughest problems. Take advantage of our remote teams, and get in touch with us for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
