Have you wondered what will happen in the construction technology field in the future? Construction is an industry that’s always going to be in demand. When construction is combined with technology, their combined impact has been estimated to boost the construction technology field to an increase in sales of over 4% between 2021 and 2028.
Computer-Based Solutions
Some of these future trends have already begun and have already made an impact on construction technology. One of the most popular innovations is 3D printing, which uses a computer to make a 3D model for products or buildings. 3D printing allows construction workers to be precise when measuring building materials.
Computers will be used by the home office to retain information and to assist workers with needed documents. The increased ability to connect to the company’s office will become indispensable. Wearables like smartwatches or glasses will allow workers to communicate instantly with the home office. These devices can enable them to provide input promptly.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Another way for the construction team to visualize the totality of the project is through virtual reality. Many people think of virtual reality is used for recreational experiences. Currently, it’s also used so the construction team can visualize being inside the finished building.
Augmented reality also allows the construction team to see the entire project. This technology uses a smartphone or other portable device, and a construction team member utilizes it. The augmented reality user can influence the images presented while the computer entirely controls virtual reality images.
Computers Solve Problems
Getting an estimate is usually the first step in a construction project. For one example, Home Advisor reports that replacing a home’s foundation averages over $4,500. When a homeowner is budgeting such an expensive construction project, they’ll want an estimate as soon as it’s available. With the ability to better visualize a construction project with computerized methods, estimates are becoming quicker – and more accurate.
Sealants have been used in construction for decades to join surfaces in homes and commercial buildings. One of the drawbacks of using sealant has been the inability to control the timing of the flow of sealant. However, with the use of computerized delivery systems or timed sealant flow, this challenge can be resolved. Dispense valves for sealant are now being computerized and can express sealant at controlled intervals.
Computerized Supervision
In addition to providing visualization or estimates of construction projects, computers can also provide supervision of the projects. One use of computerized management is with the manufacture of steel roofing. Today’s homeowners can opt for steel roofing with a non-traditional appearance.
Stone-coated steel roofing has been gaining in popularity, in part to it being 100% recyclable and just 1.4 lbs per square foot. This attractive, lightweight roofing material provides an extra safety measure, with a fire rating of Class A. It also protects against damage from hail. Stone-coated steel can also be recycled if the homeowner makes changes in the future.
The Use of Robots
Robots aren’t only used for toys or in science fiction these days. Many people are familiar with the increasing use of drones as a delivery system. The construction industry has been using other types of robots inside manufacturing facilities; for simplification of production and for increasing the production rate. One of the most common types of robotics is robot arms.
Robot arms can lift and move heavier components and can be situated in many locations, depending on their purpose. Some robotic installations are placed on the floor of a commercial enterprise. Other computers, called gantry robots or linear robots, are located on the ceiling, and assist companies in moving materials across the facility.
Many other interventions and innovative products are used in today’s construction industry. Technology will continue to be utilized in product development, project visualization, and product enhancement. The future of construction technology is limitless, and only time will reveal all its possibilities.
