It’s no secret that artificial intelligence has transformed how we live and think about digital technologies. From digital assistants to self-driving vehicles, AI and machine learning are helping industries improve quality, efficiency, and security. However, when it comes to building services, the construction sector may be a few steps behind in adapting AI technology to everyday use.
Although the latest figures report that worldwide construction revenue is roughly 10 trillion dollars annually, the challenges of labour shortages, time turnarounds, health and safety, and productivity have yet to be mitigated with artificial intelligence. Nonetheless, experts agree that the rapid onboarding of AI within construction has the potential to make significant industry-wide improvements and boost revenue.
As building projects become more reliant on automation, particularly in places where sustainable design is prioritised, AI will likely make its presence known. We can expect to see these changes sooner than later.
Design landscapes and machine learning
Over the past few years, building information modelling (BIM) has become the most well-known AI application for builders and designers.
Using artificial intelligence-based systems to develop plans for job sites, architects, MEP engineers, and other stakeholders can collaborate on projects in real-time and predict any risks and issues before breaking ground. BIM systems allow teams to imagine many design alternatives and model multiple scenarios to coincide with unique datasets. Through machine learning, building services are becoming far more efficient in cost and time management.
Safer job sites
One of the most talked about AI implementations for the future of construction involves worker safety.
It’s no secret that job sites are dangerous places where accidents abound. As such, experts have developed several prototype systems that rely on round-the-clock monitoring and AI-powered algorithms to minimise the likelihood of accidents. Through video, photo, and sensor-based analysis, machine learning can help flag safety risks ahead of time and help prevent catastrophes.
Issues such as faulty scaffolding, water and gas leaks, mould detection, failing machinery, and even missing protective gear may soon be problems of the past. AI can help predict or identify any combination of problems on-site and ensure that changes are made accordingly, almost instantly.
Comprehensive project management
Currently, many construction projects rely on traditional management methods that can be slow, inefficient, and prone to errors and miscalculations.
Soon, building service providers are expected to leap into automated project management powered by AI. Smart metrics combined with internet of things (IoT) applications can help track locations, predict vulnerabilities, monitor battery and fuel consumption, and offset any significant issues. From finances to building elements, project management is expected to become much more streamlined as AI systems come into effect over the next decade.
Smart construction in the new year
Artificial intelligence has proven to be the next best thing. As such, it’s no surprise that building services will soon catch up to other industries through the use of the latest AI software and automated technologies.
Predicting the future can be challenging, but trends are pointing towards AI as construction’s newest ally, and we’re more than excited for what’s to come!