Growth and impact of AI in Construction in ConTech 20’s
The impact of Ai in construction industry is undergoing a revolutionary transformation driven by disruptive technologies. You can identify in the market a growing focus on solutions incorporating Artificial Intelligence, which signifies a pivotal shift in how construction projects are planned and accomplished.
AI in construction holds the potential to unlock value across the whole lifecycle of the project: Design, bidding, financing, procurement, construction, operations, asset management, and business model transformation. It addresses some of the industry’s toughest challenges, including safety concerns, labor shortages, and cost and schedule overruns.
As market barriers decrease, advancements in AI, Machine Learning (ML), and analytics are accelerating and conquering the new technologies and solutions applied by every stakeholder. In CHECKTOBUILD we think it is important for you to know how AI is currently being used in construction and main benefits of incorporating AI into your construction workflow.
Understanding ArtificiaI Inteligence and Machine Learning in Construction
AI is an umbrella term describing machines mimicking human cognitive functions, and Machine Learning, a subset of AI, are transforming the construction sector. Machine Learning uses statistical techniques to enable computer systems to “learn” from data without explicit programming. Machine learning algorithms, which range from simple decision trees to more complex structures, are similar to the childhood game of 20 Questions, generating questions automatically based on input.
Applications of AI and Machine Learning in the lifecycle of your construction project.
- Cost Overrun Prevention:
Utilizing Artificial Neural Networks, predictions of cost overruns consider project size, contract type, and project manager competence.
Predictive models, drawing on historical data, contribute to more accurate project timelines, reducing onboarding time for new resources and expediting project delivery.
- Project Planning:
Robotics and AI work in tandem to capture 3D scans of construction sites, with data feeding into deep neural networks for a comprehensive assessment of sub-project progress.
The implementation of reinforcement learning optimizes project planning by evaluating endless combinations and alternatives based on lessons learned from similar projects.
- Generative Design:
AI-powered generative design takes on the challenge of identifying and mitigating clashes between 3D models generated by diverse teams.
Machine learning algorithms explore various design alternatives, adapting to constraints and learning from each iteration for an optimal solution.
- Risk Mitigation:
AI and ML solutions actively monitor and prioritize risks on job sites, automating the assignment of priority to issues and providing risk scores for subcontractors.
General contractors strategically utilize these tools, directing limited time and resources toward addressing the most significant risk factors.
- Jobsite Productivity:
Streamlining repetitive tasks, self-driving construction machinery enhances efficiency, allowing human workers to focus on more intricate aspects of construction.
Real-time tracking mechanisms, employing facial recognition and onsite cameras, evaluate worker productivity and adherence to established procedures.
- Construction Safety Enhancement:
AI analyzes job site photos to identify safety hazards, cross-referencing images with accident records to compute risk ratings for projects.
The release of safety scores for states, based on COVID-19 compliance, underscores AI’s role in promoting and maintaining a safe construction environment.
- Addressing Labor Shortages:
AI and machine learning contribute to strategic labor and machinery distribution across job sites, resulting in a potential productivity boost of up to 50%.
AI-powered robots autonomously scan job sites, particularly in remote areas, facilitating improved workforce deployment.
- Big Data Integration and Post-Construction AI:
Construction sites serve as abundant data sources for AI, drawing from images, drone videos, sensors, and BIM for real-time analysis.
Building managers leverage AI for ongoing monitoring through sensors, drones, and wireless technologies, gaining actionable insights for preventative maintenance and optimizing overall performance.
AI is the future of Construction:
The convergence of robotics, automation, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things promises to reduce building costs and enhance efficiency. While AI may not replace the human workforce, it will reshape business models, reducing errors, improving safety, and increasing overall efficiency.
Construction industry leaders should prioritize investments in AI to stay ahead in this transformative trend, setting the direction for the industry and reaping both short and long-term benefits.