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10 Construction Technology Trends Impacting the Industry in 2020
04/17/2020
In this article we take a look at ten crucial construction technology trends that are impacting the industry in 2020. ![]() 10 Construction Technology Trends[10 – 15 minute read] In this article we explore:
1) Big DataA century ago, the resource in question was oil. Today the giants of the digital industry deal in data, the oil of the digital era. There are 2.5 quintillion bytes of data created each day at our current pace, but that pace is only accelerating as technology advances. Over the last two years alone a mind-blowing 90 percent of data in the world was generated!
What is big data and where is the data coming from?Big data is a term used to describe extremely large data sets that may be used to uncover hidden trends, patterns in behaviour, unknown correlations to make more informed business decisions and serve as the basis for artificial intelligence and automation systems. This data is being gathered from Internet searches and services, mobile phones, digital photographs, social media and many other forms of digital communication tools – such as text message, Skype and emails. How big data is being used in construction:
2) Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningArtificial Intelligence (AI) is intelligence shown by a machine in order to mimic human behaviour and machine learning (ML) is a field of AI, where statistical techniques are used to give a computer the ability to learn from data without being explicitly programmed. Imagine a world whereby you could use computer systems to programme robots, machines, or to automatically calculate and design house building. This technology is already available and being used today. Here are some examples of how AI and ML are benefiting the construction industry today:
![]() 3) The Internet of Things (IoT)The Internet of Things (IoT) is taking the construction industry by storm and is massively transforming its way of working. IoT is made up of smart devices and sensors that all share data with each other and can be controlled from a central platform. The implications of this is huge as it means that a new smarter, more efficient and safer way of working is now very possible. What does this mean for construction?
4) Robotics & DronesThe construction industry is one of the least automated industries that features manual-intensive labour as a primary source of productivity, and it is surprising that robots have yet to play a significant role. A key obstacle to this is the construction worksite itself because robots require a controlled environment and tasks that are repetitive and non-variable. However, as we are now seeing construction sites becoming smarter, so is the way in which robots can be programmed and used. Here are a few examples of how robots and drones are already being used on construction sites today:
5) 5G and Wi-Fi 6With the evolution of new technology, a strong, reliable backbone for connectivity is required to support greater speeds and bigger data transfers. 5G is the fifth-generation wireless technology for digital cellular networks, boasting faster speeds, better traffic handling and less congestion. To accompany this, Wi-Fi 6, the newest standard of Wi-Fi technology is also improving on its predecessors. With the huge improvements of cellular solutions, mobile broadband is proving a competitive alternative to the traditional fixed lines and we are seeing more construction sites and developments moving towards this and reaping the benefits of quicker installation times and greater flexibility, whilst still receiving the required level of service. 5G and Wi-Fi 6 will enable users to communicate effectively, share large scale drawings, run resource-heavy applications without compromising speed/performance. Not to mention will provide a reliable and secure communication network on which new and advanced technologies will utilise. ![]()
From Big Data processing at HQ to Drones on site, 5G and Wi-Fi 6 is going to be in demand. When it comes to this communication technology, we have you covered here at UK Connect. One of my missions is to ensure we provide not only a stable and reliable platform. But also, one for steady innovation providing our customers with access to this new technology.
![]() Chris Bower Technical Consultant UK Connect 6) Building Information Modelling (BIM) TechnologyBIM technology is an intelligent 3D modelling tool that supports engineering, architecture and construction professionals to effectively plan, design, modify and manage buildings and their infrastructure. It begins with the creation of models and supports document management, coordination and simulation during the entire lifecycle of a project (plan, design, build, operation and maintenance). BIM technology enables better collaboration, because each expert can add its expertise area to the same model (architecture, MEP, civil, plant, construction, and structures), enabling review of project evolution and working results in real time. Expectations are that further development of BIM features will be the trigger for changes in a construction project design, development, deployment and management. Compared to 2D drawings – it is a perfect support for clash detection and problem-solving during design, that improves planning and increased efficiency across a construction projects life-cycle. Among all benefits, it also helps to optimise the work and company processes.
7) Virtual Reality (VR) technologies / Augmented Reality (AR)VR and AR technologies are recognised as game changer for the construction industry. It is certain that they do not belong to the gaming industry anymore. Virtual reality (VR) implies a complete immersion experience that shuts out the physical world, whilst augmented reality (AR) adds digital elements to a live view. Potentials of VR/AR technologies in conjunction with BIM technology are endless. First step would be to create a building model with BIM technology and then to take a sight-seeing and literally walk through and around it – thanks to the AR/VR features. Here are some benefits and ways in which AR/VR are being used in construction today:
![]() 8) 3D Printing3D printing technology is becoming indispensable for the construction industry, especially when taking into account its impact to changes in material sourcing. This technology pushes the boundaries beyond the designer’s table by creating a three-dimensional object from a computer-aided design model, building the object up layer by layer. Here are some of the benefits the construction industry is seeing from 3D printing today:
9) Mobile and Cloud technologiesThe construction industry is notorious for being one of the least digitalised industries, but only in recent years has the technology that can handle the challenging environments, workflows and complications of such a physical industry evolved and now continues to impact the sector – mobile and cloud technologies being one. What is cloud technology?Cloud technology enables the possibility to access, use, modify, exchange, administer and manage data stored in remote servers, by using appropriate software applications. With Internet connection and authorisation, access to these remote resources is supported by Mobile technologies that enable anyone to sign in for Cloud services.
How is this technology being used in construction today?These technologies allow data sharing, from the construction sites in real-time to all entities participating in the building construction process or to other entities responsible for contract realisation. For example, review tools necessary for engineers and architects [BB] or project management tools are now available all time, providing better collaboration and information sharing. Mobile and cloud technologies have significantly contributed to the changes and evolution of the construction sector, by enhancing digital experience and business efficiency, enabling real-time information, providing Integrated Labour Delivery [ES] and improving organisation and productivity.
10) Blockchain technologyBlockchain technology impact on the construction industry has become increasingly significant in recent months. This technology was born in 2008, as a result of establishing a digital currency or cryptocurrency (like Bitcoin or Etherium). What is Blockchain?Blockchain is digital information stored in transactional public database (block), that is peer-to-peer controlled or verified by network of computers (chain). Compared to standard databases, blockchain does not need central authority, just because all information exchange is happening between end users – peers or nodes, without mediation of a middleman. Every node in chain contains different types of information like evidence of a bank’s fiscal transaction, contract, ownership certificates and authenticity statement. Blockchain data safety is controlled by each node in chain, responsible for guarding its piece of information by digital signature and allowing prompt and secure information exchange, without any third parties. Blockchain use casesSmart contracts
Blockchain technology, as the unique trustworthy administrator for all parties involved in the contract realisation, has potential to establish error-free process for contracts generation, administration and monitoring. Smart contract is a kind of the digital protocol deployed in Blockchain network for the purpose of contracted conditions implementation. Workflow improvements Blockchain technology triggers transparency during the construction process, making it wide open and influence project workflow optimisation. Moreover, it encourages more collaborative working and contributes to timely decision-making with minimising the risk and avoiding disputes. Bitcoin for construction
Bitcoin applicability in the construction industry could be a crucial catalyst capable to boost collaboration and transparency in transactions during contract realisation, for example via “pay as you deliver” model. It enables digitally valid evidence of realised contracted obligations that triggers payment. Overall, 2020 is set to be an exciting year for construction technology as these services become more readily available and become crucial for working towards a safer, more efficient and smarter working environment.
UK Connect are dedicated to being at the forefront of construction technology. To find out more about how we can help please call 0333 900 9860 or contact us today. Back To News |
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