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New Technologies in Construction: How Innovations Are Transforming the Industry
Construction is constantly evolving, adopting new tools and solutions that not only increase efficiency but also change the entire dynamics of this branch of industry. For managers in construction corporations, understanding and utilizing these innovations becomes crucial to maintaining competitiveness in the market. In this article, we’ll look at four key trends in new construction technologies.
You’ll get to know more about Geographic Information System (GIS), Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, laser scanning (LiDAR), and artificial intelligence (AI).
1. BIM (Building Information Modeling)
BIM is one of the most important innovations in the construction industry, transforming the way we design, build, and manage properties. According to the “Global Construction Perspectives” report, by 2025, the global BIM market is expected to reach a value of up to $10 billion, indicating the growing penetration of this technology in the market. It provides continuous access to project documentation.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is not just an acronym but a key innovation in the construction industry. It is a digital model that integrates both geometric and descriptive information about a given investment, creating a virtual representation of the building in three dimensions.
However, BIM is not just a static model – it is also a dynamic tool that provides continuous access to project and planning documentation and allows real-time modifications at every stage of the investment process.
Implementing BIM technology requires the use of dedicated software that enables comprehensive project management and the creation of three-dimensional models from scratch or based on laser scans.
It is also worth mentioning the concept of the “digital twin,” which is a virtual replica of a real object. It is an extremely useful tool that allows monitoring the technical condition of the building in real-time and planning maintenance and modernization.
Although the terms BIM and Digital Twin are often used interchangeably, they have slightly different meanings. BIM mainly focuses on the process of creating and managing a building model, while Digital Twin encompasses a broader range of functions, allowing real-time monitoring of the object and predicting its behavior in the future.
2. Digital Technologies in Construction: GIS (Geographic Information System)
Geographic Information System is a tool for collecting, managing, and analyzing spatial data. It is extremely useful in spatial planning, infrastructure management, and more. Integrating GIS with other technologies such as BIM and LiDAR improves understanding of the area and streamlines the construction process.
3. LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging)
LiDAR laser scanning technology enables mapping of space in three dimensions. It is a precise method of data acquisition used in field measurements, inventory, and many other areas. The use of LiDAR significantly increases the accuracy and efficiency of construction work.
LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) technology, also known as laser scanning, revolutionizes the way space is mapped in three dimensions by using a laser beam. This process involves measuring the time it takes for light to reach and reflect off an object, allowing for precise determination of the distance from the sensor.
The result of the measurements is a 3D point cloud, consisting of points with known x, y, z coordinates that precisely locate the object in space. Laser scanning stands out for its exceptional accuracy, allowing for accuracy down to millimeters.
Additionally, it allows for the generation of point clouds in RGB colors and classification into different object classes, enabling identification of various elements such as terrain, vegetation, buildings, or other small architectural objects. It is also possible to apply texture directly to the generated 3D model.
There are three main types of laser scanning: terrestrial (stationary), aerial, and mobile. Each of them finds application in different areas, ranging from industrial measurements, through identification of deviations and deformations of objects, to architectural and terrain inventory, including road lane measurement, small architectural objects, and vegetation measurement.
4. AI (Artificial Intelligence)
Artificial intelligence revolutionizes construction processes by using machine learning models to optimize various processes. AI is used in cost estimation, planning, progress monitoring, and many other areas, contributing to increased efficiency and cost reduction.
New technologies in construction: Interplay of Technologies
The collaboration of different technologies at various stages of the project is becoming increasingly common. Integrating data from GIS, BIM, and LiDAR allows for a better understanding of the construction area, leading to more efficient project management and risk reduction.
There are many applications of these technologies that are extremely useful at various stages of the construction process, from the design phase, through implementation, to the operation of the completed investment. It is worth emphasizing that despite the differences between individual technologies, they all interpenetrate and complement each other. Integrating 2D data, such as GIS data, with 3D BIM models or 3D point clouds allows for a comprehensive understanding, description, and visualization of data from the same area. By combining different types of data containing unique information, it is possible to create a more accurate and valuable model.
The use of digital technologies brings many benefits not only in terms of construction process management but also improves communication and information flow among all project participants. Digital project and documentation, together with the use of numerous computer tools, enable quick identification of encountered problems and their correction already in the early design phase. Continuous access to data and a clear structure support this process. Currently, managing a construction investment using BIM technology is a standard for many industry-leading companies. Moreover, it is also the subject of scientific research, confirming the enormous economic and innovative potential for the construction industry.
BIM in the construction of the London Underground
An important example of BIM technology usage is the construction of the Crossrail rapid transit line in London. The entire process, both design and implementation, was based on the BIM methodology, which allowed significant time and cost savings. Additionally, the use of BIM paved the way for the introduction of innovations at every stage of the project. Through digitalization of the design process and the use of BIM models, many problems were avoided, and new technologies such as 3D printing and automation of production processes were introduced, significantly improving the efficiency of project implementation.
Production of facade panels through digital process
An example of innovative technology usage in practice is the company BrydenWood, which developed its own technology for producing GFRC facade panels. Through digital design and manufacturing processes, the company achieved significant time and cost savings, as well as improved quality and efficiency of panel installation. This is an excellent example of how managing project implementation using BIM methodology can contribute to creating new value in the market and developing innovative technologies in the construction industry.
Examples of using digital technologies
Enprom – integrating data system
The Enprom company uses an intelligent investment management system that utilizes advanced digital technologies to optimize construction processes.
Enprom is an automated system that integrates data from various sources, including data obtained from drone flights, to efficiently manage investments in the aerial power grid. The system consists of three modules: planning drone flight routes, automatic data collection from various sources, and investment management according to BIM requirements, including automatic scheduling and risk detection.
Smart Factor – mobile road scanner
Smart Factor specializes in mobile road scanning and infrastructure inventory using state-of-the-art digital tools, allowing for faster and more precise actions.
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