Automation in Construction: Unlocking Creativity

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Automation has revolutionized several industries, but one industrial sector that seemed to be slow to adapt is the construction industry. It has been slow to take advantage of automation. One of the primary areas where automation is possible in the industry is in the planning and designing process. This is where efficiency can be significantly improved with automation. 

There are a number of ways automation is revolutionizing the construction industry, let’s take a look at some of the most promising areas. 

Building Information Modelling

Firstly, Building Information Modelling or BIMs help architects and engineers efficiently plan, design, and manage infrastructure projects. It has a software database that is updated with documents and contracts of past projects. The data is collected, collated, and organized by the computer. Then the plan, section, elevations, and other parameters are fed to the computer to develop a range of BIM models that fit the criteria. Not only that, but the software can also estimate the cost of the project, minimize the paperwork needed, and help in managing construction when it starts. You can feed the software with the demands of the office occupants and other similar requests, and it will come up with a model that best suits those parameters. BIM creates an immaculate fundamental base that can be leveraged to build a unique design that uses the computers’ expertise and the ingenuity of human beings.

Drones are used to monitor the construction of infrastructure projects. They actively monitor and ensure everything is done perfectly. The human error that seeps in with human supervision is eliminated with drones. Moreover, the data is recorded and can be analyzed in the future to increase efficiency while constructing.

Virtual Reality

This is the future of 3D modeling. 3D models and Virtual Reality enables the sharing of data across teams. It lets different teams catch up on things quickly. The ability to see a project without constructing it unlocks many potential opportunities. Offsite teams can use VR to work with the on-site teams so that construction goes smoothly. Even if construction is going on in another country, 3D modeling enables experts to see the project and collaborate in real-time.

Robots

Although this has not come to fruition until now, experiments have been done in this area. Robots can be trained to lay bricks and pave roads. This will save a lot of time in the construction process and free up manpower. The freed up workforce can be used in specialized tasks. The efficiency and effectiveness of using robots is unparalleled if it can be achieved.

3D printing

Construction parts can be made with 3D printing. 3D printing is an additive process, not a subtractive one. It uses fewer components and can do more than traditional manufacturing processes. Using this technology is affordable, efficient, and effective. There is also a significant reduction in environmental damage with this process. There is a huge potential that has not been tapped in 3D printing of construction parts. With more and more companies working on Research and Development in this avenue, 3D printing is expected to change the construction industry substantially.

Automation will Bring Out the Unfettered Creativity of Architects.

Infrastructure projects are overwhelming. There are a lot of things to do in a short time frame. Architects, engineers, and construction professionals are embroiled in menial tasks to show initiative and creativity in planning and designing. Automation will free up their time and help them focus on creativity and doing something unique for each project.

One of the areas where automation will bring about a seismic shift is safety inspections and identification of potential glitches. There are services that bring efficiency and automation for inspections. This creates a safe environment for the workers and increases efficiency in construction. Identification of potential issues and quick rectification is the USP of services like Pulse

Conclusion

Technology is going to give architects more time to come up with an innovative design. They will be able to factor in the cost-effectiveness and constructability of models in real-time. Professionals will be able to meet the demands of clients. Furthermore, architects will be flexible and free to handle any last-minute changes. Other industries have embraced automation to organize their workflow seamlessly. Automation in the construction industry will bring a lot to the table. The pace of progress can be much faster if the new technology is adopted as soon as possible.