Construction technology, also known as “con tech,” is actually thought of as a separate category of technology. Manufacturing, medical, energy, transportation, agriculture, and construction are the main divisions of technology. Construction technology is a distinct category, demonstrating how vital and distinctive a sector it is.
These are some useful, applicable applications and advantages of updating your current procedures. Also, if your construction business wants to keep up its competitive edge, you’ll need to figure out how to incorporate new methods into your strategy and operational procedures.
Technology, which can be defined as the practical application of your knowledge, has led to dramatic developments in construction over time. Buildings were initially constructed out of stones and mud, but in more recent times, we have used a variety of materials, such as stone, wood, concrete, metals, glass, etc. to build our structures. Well in this article we’ll be answering questions related to construction technology.
- What is construction technology?
- What are the types of construction technology?
- What is the construction technology for the future?
- How does construction technology Shapes the Industry?
- What are jobs you can get in construction technology?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of construction technology?
Let’s begin
Contents
What is construction technology?
Technology, which can be defined as the practical application of your knowledge, has led to dramatic developments in construction over time. Buildings were initially constructed out of stones and mud, but in more recent times, we have used a variety of materials, such as stone, wood, concrete, metals, glass, etc. to build our structures. Given that the sector has seen more than $4 billion in investments over the past ten years, construction technology also has a promising future.
Recent developments in construction techniques include employing more prefabricated components, designing buildings using computers, and developing eco-friendly structures with green technology. From little residential homes to enormous industrial operations, construction technology is employed for a wide variety of tasks.
What are the types of construction technology?
The following are the types of construction technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Collection Apps
- 3D Printing
- Virtual Reality and Wearables
- Drones
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) has long benefited construction projects by boosting safety, streamlining processes, and completing tasks more quickly and effectively. Yet, a lot of construction firms are still figuring out how to best implement this complicated technology into their business.
Some larger businesses have begun to develop their own AI programs to assist with internal operations and decision-making processes. Others, on the other hand, rely on outside sources, including AI experts and solution providers, to examine their current procedures and find chances to apply AI and/or machine learning.
Data Collection Apps
Apps are becoming used in the construction industry, and for good reason. Because of their higher portability, tablets, and smartphones enable more effective communication as well as mobile working. More specifically, data-collecting apps assist building enterprises in obtaining data from the job site that is quicker, more precise, and of higher quality. This type of technology is straightforward to integrate into your existing workflows, costs less upfront, and offers substantial advantages.
Users of data collection apps have reported saving more than 20 field and administrative hours per week and experiencing a 50% decrease in data input errors.
Data collecting workflows can be automated such that once one form is submitted, another one is sent, and so on until the task at hand has received all the approvals and the data has been gathered. Additionally, some data gathering tools provide web forms and mobile forms apps so your staff may submit forms on their computers, desktops, cellphones, tablets, and pretty much any other type of electronic device.
Apps for data collecting can make it easier to do everything from routine equipment checks to reporting near-misses to conduct thorough job safety analyses.
A data-gathering tool will help you streamline reporting, whether you need daily job reports, quick turnaround on client deliverables or quick access to legal documentation. Also, you can quickly alter reports to suit your company’s requirements.
3D Printing
The procurement of building materials may alter as a result of 3D printing. Prefabrication allows for the printing of project materials, which may subsequently be brought to the construction site and used right away. By eliminating unnecessary steps in the middle of the process, can help you obtain supplies more quickly.
By allowing materials to be printed on-site, 3D printing helps to reduce waste and expenses associated with shipping and storage. Yet, limits in mass production are now one of the obstacles to this technology’s acceptance. Despite the fact that certain 3D printers can produce more, they remain pricey.
Virtual Reality and Wearables
BIM is frequently combined with virtual reality technologies to aid in the understanding of complex projects. Consider the possibilities: you could design a building with BIM and then use VR to really walk around it. Very nice, no? This will provide your team or the client with a more accurate vision of the project’s final product. You have the chance to avoid significant adjustments and pricey change orders in the middle of the project if you have a better understanding of it before it starts.
Wearables are a type of construction technique that is improving both productivity and safety. Wearable technology can boost productivity in the construction sector by 8.5 percent and job happiness by 3.5 percent, according to a recent article on the subject from AsphaltPro. The XOEye Smart Glasses, the Spot-r Wearable Sensor, and the Redpoint Positioning Safety Vest Sensors were among the significant devices mentioned in the report.
Drones
The most popular new construction is drones. They are less expensive than aerial photography and can carry out site assessments more rapidly and precisely than staff on the ground. They can take volume measurements and produce dynamic 3D or topographical maps and models thanks to their high-resolution cameras and data collection.
The ability to securely investigate difficult-to-reach areas, like around large buildings or bridges, is another advantage of flying drones. They can also be used to keep an eye on workers and the development of a job site.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software
Better cooperation is made possible by the usage of BIM since each individual and area of expertise may contribute to a single model rather than being split up into several iterations of a 2D paper drawing. In this approach, the model is instantly updated as new contributions are made, speeding the procedure and boosting efficiency. By automating collision detection and giving a more full view of the project, BIM also aids in problem-solving during the design and planning phases of a project.
Governments around the world are taking more and more steps to make BIM a requirement for major facilities projects, including those in India, Hong Kong, France, South Korea, Germany, and Italy. BIM is already required for government construction projects in the United Kingdom. Building information modeling (BIM) AI development, rising demand for BIM-based cloud collaboration, and modular construction and prefabrication are among the new trends that will have a direct impact on the industry, according to Research and Market’s 2021 Building Information Modeling Market Report.
What is the construction technology for the future?
Below shows the construction technology for the future.
- The Connected Job Site
- Building Analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT)
- Exoskeletons for Construction Workers
- Autonomous Vehicles
- Rise of Eco-Friendly Materials
- Modular Construction
- Augmented Reality (AR)
- Innovative Materials
The Connected Job Site
The associated work location is already here. We anticipate that businesses will put forth considerably more effort to implement this technology. In 2020, initiatives to do away with paper forms will intensify. The delivery of information to others on the job site will therefore need the usage of digital forms by construction businesses.
Construction managers gain from fully utilizing the connected project site in two ways. They can get better knowledge via the website without having to travel every day, for starters. This results in quicker decision-making on modifications and less time wasted on trips. It will be less frustrating for employees to wait for a response from the corporate office.
Employ Device Magic’s Enterprise Solution to instantly give your team access to the potential of the linked job site. This is a construction innovation that is currently usable and wouldn’t cost a fortune.
Building Analytics and the Internet of Things (IoT)
Building owners want their buildings to have greater analytics and IoT capabilities. As a result, we believe the construction sector will get more IoT knowledge. Particularly, network-connected sensor installation, testing, and improvement in buildings will gain popularity. Building owners will be able to regulate heating, cooling, security, and energy use thanks to this. Consider hiring specialized companies to handle IoT tasks in the near future. You must organically develop this capability if you want to remain competitive over the long run.
Exoskeletons for Construction Workers
This prediction is a little bit “out there” in comparison to our other ones. These gadgets do, however, exist, and they have intriguing potential. Simply visualize “wearable gadgets” in their broadest sense, and you’ll have an exoskeleton. These tools aid construction in two different ways. By limiting exposure to risks on the job site, they promote worker safety in the first place (i.e., workers can avoid touching hazards directly). Workers in the construction industry can also access more strength.
Autonomous Vehicles
It’s challenging to maneuver effectively on enormous construction sites, such as hotels, mines, and commercial buildings. Because of this, autonomous vehicles, commonly referred to as self-driving automobiles, are going to become more prevalent. Construction self-driving cars will be more popular than autonomous vehicles on public highways because they operate in a more constrained environment.
Rio Tinto, a mining corporation, has already begun utilizing autonomous vehicles in a few of its operations. Making use of these vehicles can help you get the most out of your small construction crew. As these cars don’t take breaks, they are also a great method to boost productivity.
Rise of Eco-Friendly Materials
More than ever, builders and contractors are making a conscious effort to include eco-friendly materials in their projects. Builders and contractors need to be aware of precisely what they’re using and how the items they choose affect their carbon footprint because not all materials branded as “green” are genuinely eco-friendly.
Consider using salvaged or reclaimed wood that originates from previously-cut trees instead of new wood for a construction project and causing further tree-killing. Steel is subject to the same idea. Steel must be produced using a lot of energy, however, employing recycled steel in a construction project can achieve the same goals with a lot less material.
Modular Construction
The era of starting from scratch to construct homes is passing. Instead, we anticipate that modular building will gain in popularity. This prediction is made possible by 3D printers’ rising sophistication and accessibility. Speed is yet another crucial element. Customers’ tolerance for lengthy building plans is dwindling in the age of Amazon’s same-day delivery.
How significant is the niche for modular construction? It already has a yearly value of over $100 billion, according to a 2018 industry research estimate. From 2018 to 2023, the category is anticipated to increase at a rate of above 6% yearly.
Augmented Reality (AR)
The public initially learned about augmented reality through video games and technology. But AR is now making his way to the building site. Imagine a situation where a construction worker wears Google Glass and gets job updates.
For instance, when a worker gets fatigued and wants to take a break, AR can send pertinent safety warnings. In order for workers to proactively spot issues, AR may also deliver data like temperature, pressure, and other data points upon request.
Innovative Materials
The building sector is always evolving and getting better. Construction workers may do their work more quickly, safely, and efficiently thanks to new techniques, materials, and technology, which also improves the customer experience.
The construction business is being revolutionized by some of the most cutting-edge building materials, such as:
self-repairing concrete. This extraordinary concrete fills fissures with calcite produced by built-in sodium silica capsules. A healing agent is used with the “bio concrete.” The healing agent dissolves and becomes active once the concrete cracks allow water to enter, automatically filling in the holes!
nanotubes of carbon. One nanometer thick carbon tubes have been created by scientists (one-billionth of a meter). These nanotubes may be combined with a variety of different materials to considerably increase their durability and strength, and they have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any material now utilized on Earth.
How does construction technology Shapes the Industry?
The construction sector is experiencing a wave of innovation due to the introduction of new materials, energy sources, architectural concepts, and technological advancements. The construction sector gains a lot from these advancements in terms of cost savings, reduced material waste, efficient time management, and decreased error rates.
Whether we like it or not, the world is always evolving, and we must keep up. The advantages of the technology, which could not be abandoned, are outweighed by the rigors of competition. Hence, to keep up with mounting challenges and acquire a competitive edge, the construction industry is also implementing new technology.
Even though the construction sector has embraced cutting-edge technology, many people are still dubious about its advantages. Future winners will be the organizations that can take advantage of these technologies and changes quickly. Those who move slowly or stop moving are more prone to trip and fall or quit their jobs.
What are jobs you can get in construction technology?
Technology improvements benefit a wide variety of jobs in the construction industry. The majority of these positions, known as construction technology jobs, use technology to simplify construction procedures. A career in this area may be the best fit for you if you enjoy working with technology and are interested in construction.
The following are jobs you can get in construction technology
- Building Inspector
- Construction laborer
- Equipment operator
- Ironworker
- Wind turbine technician
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Boilermaker
- Elevator technician
Building Inspector
Building inspections are carried out to check the structural integrity of new structures and construction projects. These experts adhere to tight safety requirements, maintain zoning and building code compliance, and determine whether structures meet applicable criteria or require maintenance and repairs. Building inspectors can assist their work with cutting-edge equipment like inspection software, sensors, and high-definition imagery.
Construction laborer
Work on a construction site is what a construction laborer is in charge of doing. This position exemplifies the diversity of the workforce, which consists of experts with a range of abilities and specializations. They are in charge of setting up construction sites, carrying supplies, operating machinery, clearing debris, and building scaffolding platforms. The tasks and responsibilities of a construction worker vary depending on the kind of project they are working on and their skills.
Equipment operator
A construction expert who manages and controls large machinery on projects is called an equipment operator. Trenchers, compactors, bulldozers, forklifts, rollers, and excavators are only a few examples of the equipment operators’ employment of a wide range of technology and construction machinery. They might dig into the ground or carry items using machines. To handle particular equipment, these specialists often need to obtain a license.
Ironworker
A tradesperson known as an ironworker uses iron and steel to make rods and beams that are later used as supports in dams, highways, and structures. In order to effectively manufacture steel frames and install metal components, ironworkers adhere to engineering plans and frameworks. Ironworkers also use reinforced steel and concrete to restore older buildings in addition to providing building support. Ironworkers frequently perform their duties using building information modeling (BIM) and construction management software in factories, steel mills, and utility plants.
Wind turbine technician
An expert in renewable energy who installs maintains, and configures wind turbines is known as a wind turbine technician. Technicians for wind turbines often work for green energy businesses and institutions. Devices called wind turbines to use the kinetic energy of wind currents to produce electricity. These experts frequently inspect and test turbine electrical and hydraulic components from great heights.
Electrician
An electrician carries out installation, maintenance, and repair tasks on electrical infrastructure. Installing electrical wire systems, resolving electrical issues, and maintaining electrical equipment are among their duties. To guarantee the safety of both themselves and the spectators, these professionals must also take care and adhere to specific safety norms and protocols. Many construction technologies, including wearables, smart grids, and energy-efficient appliances, may be encountered by these experts.
Plumber
A plumber puts in new pipes and fixes old ones that transport trash, gas, and water into and out of structures. Plumbers help with the setup of equipment like washing machines and dishwashers as well as the installation of domestic plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Commercial structures are also given access to these services by them. Plumbing professionals may work with cutting-edge building technologies like smart appliances and plumbing systems.
Boilermaker
A boilermaker is in charge of creating and putting in place boilers and related equipment like closed vats and tanks. A boiler is a device that boils water for the purpose of producing heat or power for a structure. These professionals might use CAD software to help them with their tasks. They are also responsible for reading designs, examining and testing boilers, and fixing broken components.
Elevator technician
An elevator technician is in charge of setting up, maintaining, and fixing machinery. They are in charge of making modifications, doing inspections, and designing and reviewing plans. These experts adhere to standards and construction codes when working on elevators to ensure that their work is precise and secure. Elevator technicians may work with wiring, program elevator control buttons, and check that elevator features are secure for users to utilize during the installation process.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of construction technology?
The followings are the advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- Improves safety
- Increases productivity
- Ensures better collaboration
- Helps to manage labor shortages
Improves safety
The safety of the employees is a major concern in the construction sector. Using tools like virtual reality, sensors, and wearables can significantly improve workplace safety and lower the risk of major injuries. To guarantee a safe working environment, construction businesses can use these technologies to successfully train their staff members and then keep track of both their health and the site’s general security.
Increases productivity
Each project in construction is unique from the next. This hinders production by making it very difficult to standardize the numerous procedures. The use of technology, including AI and ML, aids in the automation and simplification of many processes, increasing productivity.
Ensures better collaboration
Every construction project is distinct from the others. Due to the difficulty in standardizing the different methods, this reduces production. Automation and simplification of numerous procedures are made possible by the use of technology, including AI and ML, which boosts productivity.
Helps to manage labor shortages
The lack of qualified workers is a persistent problem for the building industry. Using technology to manage these shortages can be quite beneficial. Construction organizations may assure that they need fewer personnel to complete any significant physical task by using drones, robots, or autonomous heavy equipment. Technology can also assist them by giving them access to the most recent candidate database, which they can utilize to hire new hires as and when necessary.
Disadvantages
- handling components at the construction site presents security issues.
- In MMC, the upfront cost is relatively significant.
- There are numerous transportation materials needed.
- Specialized equipment is needed to handle MMC components.
Construction technology FAQs
What are 5 examples of construction technology?
- Drones
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software.
- Virtual Reality
What are examples of construction technology?
- AI and Machine Learning.
- Autonomous Equipment.
- Building Information Modeling.
- Intelligent Compaction and Paving Control.
- Laser Scanning.
- Weighing and Monitoring Solutions.
- Construction Software.
What is the function of construction technology?
Construction technology supports labor-intensive, inefficient operations in the industry. Efficiency can be increased by using a variety of cutting-edge techniques, such as software or equipment that is fully or partially automated. Construction technology is not a panacea and cannot by itself resolve every issue on the job site.
Which construction technology is best?
- Virtual and Augmented Reality. Among the new construction technologies, virtual and augmented reality have been a great innovation, providing visualizations.
- Blockchain Technology.
- Digital Twin.
- 3D Laser Scanner.
- 4D Simulation.
- Building Information Modelling.
- 3D Printing.
What is construction technology also known as?
used during the project’s construction phase. The entire goal of construction technology is to advance the sector, spur innovation and advancement, and boost productivity. Construction technology, also known as “con tech,” is actually thought of as a separate category of technology.
What are the advantages of construction technology
Each project in construction is unique from the next. This hinders production by making it very difficult to standardize the numerous procedures. The use of technology, including AI and ML, aids in the automation and simplification of many processes, increasing productivity.
What is the future of construction technology?
The field of construction technology is significantly changing as a result of 3D printing technology. It has several benefits that make it one of the most sought-after technologies for upcoming construction projects. Construction businesses can use 3D printing to make models of their projects before they ever start.
What are the 3 positive impacts of construction technology?
To illustrate this point, the following areas can benefit from improvements made by businesses utilizing BIM and other construction technology: Enhanced design caliber. decreased rework and errors. increased percentage of projects that are successful.
That’s all for this article where the answers to this question are discussed
- What is construction technology?
- What are the types of construction technology?
- What is the construction technology for the future?
- How does construction technology Shapes the Industry?
- What are jobs you can get in construction technology?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of construction technology?
I hope, it was helpful, if so, kindly share. Thanks for reading
