Technology  

Robots are also being used to monitor jobsite progress with real-time, actionable data to improve jobsite productivity. Autonomous drones and rovers are equipped with high-definition cameras and LiDAR to photograph and scan the construction site each day with pinpoint accuracy. Artificial Intelligence then uses those scans to compare against your BIM models, 3D drawings, construction schedule, and estimates to inspect the quality of the work performed and determine how much progress has been made each day.

Construction firms are now using data to make better decisions, increase productivity, improve jobsite safety, and reduce risks. With artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning systems, firms can turn the mountains of data they have collected over the years on projects to predict future outcomes on projects and gain a competitive advantage when estimating and bidding on construction projects.

Safety training and equipment operator training are two areas where virtual reality (VR) could strongly impact the construction industry. With VR, workers could get exposure to confined spaces or work at height in a safe, controlled environment. Augmented reality (AR) is another technology that can greatly improve safety on the construction site. Whether it's allowing for a more detailed safety plan to be developed or providing training on heavy equipment using actual equipment on real sites with augmented hazards, there are a number of ways that AR can be deployed on the jobsite.

3D Printing in the construction industry means greatly reduced production time. That's because the machines themselves are very fast. Some of them are capable of manufacturing 600 to 800-square-foot homes in just 24 hours. 3D printers are also fully automated, which eliminates human error. The machine only needs to be monitored, but most of the production process doesn't involve any human help.

Nanotechnology and nanomaterials offer interesting new opportunities in the construction industry and architecture, for example, through the development of very durable, long-lived and at the same time extremely lightweight construction materials. Novel insulation materials with very good insulation values are already available on the market, enable a thermal rehabilitation of buildings in which conventional insulation is not possible, and can help to improve energy efficiency.