How New Technology Will Impact the Construction Industry
Tags: Startup, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Technology, Construction

When most people hear about technological advancements, they don’t typically think about the construction industry. Although they may not seem innovative, construction companies continuously create and embrace various new technologies to help complete projects more efficiently and cost-effectively. As the industry is currently responding to the skilled labor shortage, new sustainability regulations, and advancements in information technology, new technological innovations are already being used on job sites around the country. New developments, such as artificial intelligence, electric delivery vehicles, and virtual/augmented reality, will continue to impact the construction industry for years to come. Whether you work at a small or large company, it is important to understand these new trends that will significantly change the future of the construction industry.

In our increasingly digital world, the construction industry is rapidly evolving as businesses develop and implement new technological advancements.

Artificial Intelligence:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a wide-ranging branch of computer science concerned with building smart machines that are capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. With popular examples such as Siri, Alexa, and Watson, AI is widely used by the general public. Additionally, AI has many potential applications in the construction industry that can improve planning and improve the efficiency of projects. One example that is specifically geared towards the construction industry industry is ALICE, an AI bot that uses a project’s specs to evaluate millions of pieces of data to generate scheduling options optimized for time and cost. Additionally, ALICE ensures its plans are accurate by continuously adapting to the project as it evolves. The engineers behind the project impressively claim that the bot can reduce project time and cost by up to 15%.

Electric Delivery Vehicles:

Enticed by government subsidies and an enthusiastic push for sustainable energy from the American public, various companies, such as Tesla and Chanje, have started to develop electric delivery vehicles (EVs). First unveiled in 2017, Tesla’s electric semi-truck is set to begin production in 2020. Not only is Tesla’s semi environmentally conscious, but it is also still a vehicle with great performance. The Tesla Semi accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5 seconds, has a max tow load of 80,000 lbs, and can travel 500 miles at typical highway speed before needing a charge. Additionally, Chanje has announced the V8100, its line of electric delivery vans. Even though the V8100 is 100% electric, it is still capable of handling a 6,000-pound payload and can travel up to 150 miles per charge. Even though they are successfully developing EVs, Tesla and Chanje are not alone in pursuing this new technology that will soon shift how construction companies conduct their deliveries.

Virtual/Augmented Reality:

Virtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated environment, and augmented reality (AR) is an enhanced version of the real physical world that is achieved through the use of digital visual elements, sound, or other sensory stimuli delivered via technology. VR and AR are being used in the construction industry to improve equipment operator training. This new training technology is more engaging, life-like, and accurate than the existing lecture and video-based training seminar curricula. Additionally, VR and AR training allow equipment operators to prepare for dangerous situations like natural disasters and equipment malfunctions.

To avoid falling behind your competitors, implement new technological advancements when they might benefit your business.

The Takeaways:

When difficult challenges face businesses, the construction industry is fully capable of adapting to new technological advances. With the development and implementation of artificial intelligence, electric delivery vehicles, and virtual/augmented reality, the construction industry can adapt to a technologically-advanced world. In addition to the three main topics discussed above, LiDAR, humanoid robots, smart boots, BIM software, and 3D printing are more examples of innovations that will shape the industry in the future. As the world continues to change and new problems arise, more technology will emerge and be the key to the industry’s long-lasting success. Stay ahead of the competition by following the development of these evolving tools and implementing them into your work whenever possible.