Types of Construction Technology
Quick Navigation:
- What Is Construction Technology
- How Construction Tech Can Change The Future
- 12 Types of Technology Used In The Construction Industry
- Positive Impacts of Construction Technology
- Why Should Construction Companies Embrace Technology
Technology is becoming increasingly essential, and every industry is adopting innovations to increase productivity and efficiency. The construction sector is one of those.
The construction industry has been relatively slow to embrace technology, but it has still paved the way for progress. New technology has become an integral part of reducing workplace injuries, improving productivity and pushing the sector toward the future.
Various construction techniques can perform different specialized tasks. Robots are now laying bricks, and architects are using computer science to design buildings. With this technology, construction companies have built stronger, better and more efficient structures. The introduction of cutting-edge inventions has reshaped the sector by improving collaboration. Construction technology has enabled workers to tackle more complex projects with ease.
This guide looks at the latest construction technology examples and their impact on the sector.
What Is Construction Technology?
The “construction technology” definition is a collection of tools that can enhance productivity during the construction phase. Each device used at a construction site has a specific role to play, but they all simplify the building process and reduce the chances of an accident.
Some of the newest innovations in construction technology are prefabricated parts and computer software to design buildings. Another is the use of green tech to construct eco-friendly structures.
This technology has proven highly beneficial. According to the Construction Industry Institute’s research, adopting cutting-edge technology can boost production by 30 to 45%. Tech improves construction projects’ quality and reliability. It can also help manage inventory.
How Construction Tech Can Change the Future
Construction technology can positively impact the industry and change it for the better. This tech empowers construction workers and employees, and reducing their workload allows them to increase their bandwidth and focus on more projects. It can also help contractors deal with the growing labor shortage problem. Construction tech can address and eliminate these issues.
The industry can adopt new trends and tech to identify and address roadblocks, dealing with them as they go. By welcoming the progress of this new tech, they will help the industry flourish and grow.
12 Types of Technology Used in the Construction Industry
What are some examples of construction technology reinventing the industry? Artificial intelligence and construction software have streamlined processes and brought substantial improvements. Different types of construction technology are impacting the industry by achieving high levels of productivity enhancement. Let’s look at a construction technology list by type and examine how each can benefit the construction business.
1. AI and Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence has become essential for construction managers. This new tech collects and observes visual data from cameras and notifies managers of any potential risks or hazards. AI has helped schedule-related tasks by automating most mundane chores that are essential to keep operations running.
By embracing AI’s potential, construction managers can prevent delays, conflicts and other issues. While humans can still manage small-scale projects, more complicated ones are a better match for machine learning software because they require coordination and precision.
2. Autonomous Equipment
Autonomous equipment is nothing new, but it can still be the construction sector’s future. Semi-autonomous machines like bulldozers are in daily use on various construction sites. Humans operate this equipment, which automatically collects data while moving around. These machines independently decide how to handle materials or accomplish tasks.
Now, companies are working on including more advanced autonomous equipment, among other new types of construction technology. These will take over mundane, but necessary, tasks and allow humans to work on higher-level strategies. These types of equipment will reduce worker stress and fatigue while improving work site safety. Autonomous equipment will play a more significant role in the construction sector’s future.
3. Drones
Rather than the error-prone, traditional method of collecting site data manually, drones provide a better alternative that offers precision and accuracy. Companies in the construction sector have found various uses for drones, which work by flying over the construction site, scanning it and providing precise data. Drones provide accurate information and remove the possibility of human error. Engineers can analyze this data with software and use it in construction designs.
Drones reduce the need for manual labor, while allowing professionals to compare images. Building drawings and designs lessen the likelihood of inaccuracies during the construction phase. Drones can capture up-to-date pictures of the site as often as needed, simplifying the on-site planning process.
4. Building Information Modeling
Building information modeling is another example of construction technology. BIM is a process for managing and creating all the digital details about every aspect of a project. Building information modeling allows contractors to build a project virtually before starting any work. This technology lets them predict any problems or inefficiencies that might arise during the building process.
The BIM process has many benefits, such as improving collaboration, reducing risk and lowering project costs. It also provides a better overview of the project and reduces the waste of any unused materials. Building information modeling can improve the project’s schedule by completing the design and documentation simultaneously. Contractors can plan more accurately, which facilitates completion.
5. Intelligent Compaction and Paving Control
Compaction is one of the most critical processes in paving because it ensures a smooth, uniform road. Intelligent compaction is a better method of compacting road materials, using the latest technology for complete, consistent and accurate results.
Intelligent compaction gives you better control over cutting depths. This process prevents overcutting and reduces the cost of cutting access materials. New technology ensures that the paver stays perfectly aligned and produces a more uniform concrete surface. The latest equipment features innovative technology that can improve efficiency, grading and speed.
6. Laser Scanning
Laser scanning is one of the most popular types of construction technology. Laser scanning tools provide accurate information about a site. They improve construction accuracy and quality by providing detailed data to the construction manager and enhancing the planning and detailing process. Managers or contractors don’t have to wait for someone else to complete the assessment of the site. They provide a quick scan and save time for your contractors.
3D laser scanning also helps in improving collaboration and coordination on the construction site. Managers can make faster and better decisions, enhancing the project’s overall timeline and quality. The 3D laser technique also reduces manual labor and reduces the likelihood of error, saving valuable time.
7. Weighing and Monitoring Solutions
Weighing tools are a critical part of the construction industry. The scales should be compatible with the loading systems. Since the construction sector regularly handles multiple materials in different weather conditions, it needs various weighing solutions to give precise measurements.
Using accurate weighing solutions is essential in a construction project. A simple miscalculation or malfunction can lead to inaccuracies and increase the risk of accidents. The correct weighing solutions make it much easier for a construction manager to determine precise figures, while reducing the chances of mishaps.
These scales are lightweight and easy to transport, assemble and dismantle. Built from durable materials, these scales can withstand harsh conditions, and integrated software guarantees maximum precision.
8. Construction Software
Construction software brings many benefits and multiple uses, from managing and controlling documents to assessing risks.
User-friendly construction management software ensures every project goes according to plan. This software can also track the project’s budget and promote your business.
Construction software allows staff members to access and share information. It has also become the best solution for managing paperwork and dealing with other administrative issues. Construction software is a leading technology impacting the industry, thanks to its ability to streamline tasks like project management, accounting and cost estimation.
9. Computer-Aided Design
Many architects and engineers rely on computer-aided design software daily. Construction software solutions are an alternative to manual drawings that can create 2D or 3D designs of new buildings. This software has many uses and advantages in the construction sector. Contractors use the designs architects create to develop a plan they can use for a project’s entire length.
Designers and architects can quickly modify their drawings in CAD software. They can also export their designs to other formats and share them with all the people involved to create a working plan before initiating construction.
10. Site Positioning Systems
Site positioning systems allow contractors to precisely map out the construction site. These systems play a vital role in construction and mining, and they can cut down your job time while maintaining your budget. A site positioning system enables you to complete preliminary site analysis without waiting for surveyors.
On some level, the site positioning system works similarly to a machine control system. The only difference between these two is in technique. The machine control system focuses on the machinery’s location, while the site positioning system works by taking a broader approach and surveying the entire site.
Using site positioning systems can benefit you by making your machine control system even more efficient. These systems can optimize your processes while reducing your operational costs. These easy-to-use tools can make a difference in your construction projects.
11. Prefabrication
Prefabrication is a valuable asset in the construction sector. It is a practice of manufacturing a building’s components at a different site, then transporting them to the final construction site. The contractors and builders assemble the structures and hand over the building to the owners.
For contractors, assembling a modular building is a game-changer because it’s much faster than building one from scratch. Prefabrication has been extremely helpful when construction managers have a limited timeline to complete projects. Along with saving time and money, prefabrication is an eco-friendly construction method. It also provides consistent quality, as the manufactured components adhere to strict standards.
12. Modular Construction
Modular construction is similar to prefabrication. However, while prefabrication uses some manufactured components and builds the rest on-site, modular construction involves getting almost all the building’s structures from an off-site manufacturer, then assembling the pieces on-site. As with prefabrication, the modular construction process saves a considerable amount of time compared to traditional construction. One 2017 study from Market Research Future predicted modular construction would show 6% year-over-year growth until 2022.
Positive Impacts of Construction Technology
Construction technology is a collection of new advancements that have streamlined the construction process, making designing and building considerably more efficient. While the construction sector has been slower to adapt to these changes, they are now starting to catch on and enjoy the benefits.
More Efficient Industry Operations
Designers and architects can now design buildings and structures in real time instead of drawing them by hand. The introduction of digital technology has significantly expedited the review process. While builders and contractors can get a complete feel of the building via virtual reality, technicians and other experts can collaborate remotely without visiting the site.
The staff can coordinate with each other and stay connected via construction software. It has expedited tasks like sharing files and receiving feedback, improving the daily operations of organizations of all sizes. Construction technology has also reduced construction costs and significantly decreased the chances of miscommunication between departments.
More Durable, Smarter Structures
Manufactured structures designed according to industry standards are sturdier. Contractors are working smarter, not harder, getting better results with less effort. The designers and architects create 3D models before any work begins. These then undergo a thorough review for any inconsistencies, leading to a better-structured building. Testing the models for accuracy helps contractors save time and resources.
Construction technology is also effective during retrofitting, which brings older buildings up to par with modern standards and reduces the need to build newer structures. Strategic retrofitting enhances components such as lighting and fire safety with the help of the latest construction technology, and contractors can achieve the desired results with fewer materials.
Using Better Tools
Construction technology is all about using improved tools. Software and automation are simplifying the construction process. With strategic use of these tools, contractors can build better buildings in a considerably shorter period. From 3D design software to accurately estimating the project’s budget, these tools have elevated the industry.
Construction software allows project managers to streamline their processes. It can assess accident-prone areas and provide more precise estimations. Using this software, construction managers can keep track of the project’s budget and overall spending. It predicts profitability, giving workers a chance to alter the process and reduce costs.
Better Client Satisfaction
Communication has always been a challenge for the construction sector. Site supervisors could give clients an idea of the final building and even let them tour the site, but that’s often not enough to satisfy them. Digital technology allows construction managers to communicate more effectively. They can share 3D and other visual models, and get quicker approval on the project. Virtual reality can give clients an exciting, memorable experience.
Tech makes it easier to update clients and keep them in the loop. Managers can share details with their clients through cloud-based technology and get projects approved quickly, reducing construction delays and ensuring a smooth project. Processing documents and other data simultaneously with construction saves clients’ time and leads to better satisfaction.
Innovation
Technology has made most of the advancements in this sector possible. Software allows designers and architects to experiment with layouts and designs, ensuring more efficient resource use and giving designers a chance to be creative with their work. Technology drives innovation, which presents construction professionals with an opportunity to grow and elevate the construction industry.
Modernization is one of the most exciting parts of this sector, and this technology helps designers and architects yield outcomes from their cutting-edge work. To continue elevating the industry, adopting construction technology is essential.
Why Should Construction Companies Embrace Technology?
Cutting-edge tools can reduce construction workers’ and managers’ workloads, but is that incentive enough for construction companies to embrace technology? Incorporating tech can have a multitude of benefits, taking the industry to a new level.
Cost Reduction
Cost savings is the primary benefit of using technology. Now, companies can standardize their processes and plan better budgets by identifying and removing errors ahead of time. Technology can also help reduce training costs and other preliminary expenses. Minimizing operation costs will increase your profits, enabling you to use that money on higher-level strategy and planning. The construction industry has more to gain than it has to lose by adopting new technology.
Enhanced Productivity
Technology streamlines daily processes, making them more efficient. You allow construction workers to focus on other essential areas when you automate their workload. Robots and drones can take over mundane or hazardous jobs and complete them more accurately, which frees employees to work on human-centric tasks. When technology and human efforts work in sync, production improves, and you can see direct results on the output.
Better Insights
Though technology plays a crucial role in easing on-site operations, it can also influence your understanding of different customers and situations. With social media, you can gain insights into your customers’ preferences and behavior — knowledge that can help you build a more profound understanding of their preferences and how your clients view the products listed on your website. This information can direct your business’s marketing strategies and result in increased sales and revenue.
Smarter Working Process
Technology allows construction workers to work smarter, not harder. For instance, your team can use construction management software to manage projects. Construction management software streamlines team members’ workflow and makes it easy for everyone to access the same files simultaneously. It will considerably reduce time wastage and connect all members working on the project.
Reduction in On-Site Accidents
Construction is one of the most dangerous and accident-prone fields. Thus, construction companies must take extra precautions to minimize this threat. Since construction sites rely on heavy machinery and intense physical labor, creating a safe environment is challenging. Introducing new technologies can facilitate this change. The latest technology can assess the site and identify potential risks and dangers before they ever happen. Also, technology like robots can take over heavy lifting and reduce the chances of people getting hurt.
Technology has benefited the construction sector, and it will continue to do so in the future. There are many convincing reasons to incorporate technology into your construction site. From safety to cost, construction technology can benefit your company in more than one way.
View SITECH West’s Construction Technology Solutions
Construction technology is an integral advancement in the globalization of capital. To enhance the world’s overall prosperity and stay competitive, the real estate and construction sectors must take a step forward and embrace new ways of doing things. This technology not only improves the construction process, but also cuts down on wasted resources.
Advancing efficiency and productivity will help companies maximize their returns on investments and gain a more profound understanding of clients’ preferences. Businesses that act quickly can soon become industry leaders. It’s now time to embrace this change and help the construction industry evolve.
Learn more and view our construction technology solutions. Contact us today about our technology solutions and become part of the digital future.