The top construction technology innovations in 2018

Construction technology innovation is progressing rapidly. Due to a lack of awareness, the Construction sector is a vastly under-claimed area of R&D. Architects are constantly stretching the boundaries of design, and as such those responsible for turning ideas and drawings into reality have a need to innovate to come up with solutions to risk management, energy efficiency, visual effects and the ability to withstand the environment.We look at the seven biggest construction innovations and trends in 2018.

Predictive analytics

A lot of the time competitive advantage within the construction industry is born out of an ability to manage risk effectively. Predictive analytics is enabling construction companies to analyse data from subcontractors’ material suppliers, design plans and the site itself to analyse risk factors based on historical data to provide more accurate and comprehensive risk assessments.

Virtual Reality(VR)

Virtual reality is enabling designers, architects, and engineers to ‘walk’ clients through 3D and 4D model environments. The application of Virtual reality in construction is enabling companies to immerse their clients in the design and feel of the space and environment.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented reality allows those in the construction industry to walk clients through the real 3D environment by foot, layering on digital elements and environments onto the physical world.

Wearable technology

Wearable technology is having a significant impact on the safety of the construction industry. Wearable technology is now able to warn construction workers of potential hazards and identify when someone has tripped, slipped, or fallen to enable help to be sent straight away.

Machine mearning

Machine Learning now facilitates the ability for photos, videos and other visual data to be collected from construction sites seeking out safety violations as well as marking up key buildings, rooms and assets so that they can be associated with plans.Machines such as drones are also being utilised across construction sites in order to intelligently analyse key variables such as safety, progress and quality.

Prefabrication

The construction and engineering industry has been using prefabrication for decades however mobile technology is now enabling entire project teams to oversee the prefabrication process from end-to-end, providing transparency on quality and delivery timelines.

Connected job sites

A disconnected job site can be extremely costly. Delays in communication between different job sites, design offices, and engineering companies can quickly diminish the bottom line.Job site connectivity is becoming much easier to achieve providing all stakeholders with access to live drawings and up-to-the-minute files, ensuring all parties are up to date and able to communicate easily and quickly.