How Internet Of Things Reshape The Construction Industry

Introduction

Construction industry always has a productivity problem. Most of the projects run overtime as well as over budget. Thus, the industry is relatively slower than others at adapting to modern changes. And yes, it costs companies in millions. Research says large projects are taking up to 20% longer to finish than scheduled  running up to 80% over budget. Is there any way to change the scenario? Other industries like manufacturing, have switched to the Internet of Things (IoT) and many other latest technologies to help uncover productivity growth. Why not could IoT be the key to construction then?

Internet Of Things (IoT) – What Exactly It Is?

Internet of Things also known as IoT is making rounds in the modern tech world since years. There many facts stating how IoT can make our homes, industries as well entire cities “Smart.” We are likely to witness the emergence of intelligent tools & technologies in the construction industry. Whereas, what will disrupt the industry is the use of IoT that can help improve the maintenance and repair of machinery as well as the construction vehicles.

Repair and maintenance is a thing that has a massive effect on the construction industry. Survey says proper equipment maintenance is one of the excellent ways companies can achieve most out of their investment. Whereas, the equipment downtime can sometimes lead to the shutdown of the complete project, costing thousands or millions of dollars.

IoT in construction

Internet of Things in Construction Industry

On construction site, IoT enables companies to manage the problem of equipment downtime. IoT can surely help tracking assets, ensuring that they never get stolen or lost. The loosing or seizing of assets is mostly an issue on large-scale construction sites causing delays in productivity.

The use of IoT is proving valuable on construction sites like monitoring of equipment and repair. The sensors enable machinery to detect and communicate maintenance requirements. They also send automated alerts for preventive maintenance. Thus, increases efficiency by remotely monitoring fuel consumption. IoT helps businesses to make sure that their construction vehicles and machines are used for best possible times boosting on-site productivity.

For this technology to indeed disrupt the construction industry, it is necessary to back it up with some reliable connectivity. If an IoT device loses its connectivity and not able to send data in real time, then the tracking of assets or vehicles will witness a downfall.

Conclusion

According to research, labor productivity growth in the construction industry has averaged only 1% a year since past two decades as compare with the increase of 2.9% for the total world economy.

However, if construction industry can match the productivity growth of the overall economy, it would undoubtedly boost the sector’s value by adding about 2% to the global economy a year.

Internet of Things  will surely be a key ingredient in uncovering this productivity. It can ensure construction companies have access to real-time data. It will improve machine performance, undertake preventative maintenance, cut the downtime and repair the costs. By keeping an eye towards this approach, construction leaders can ensure their work is both productive, effective as well as future-proofed.

Source: http://blog.bimengus.com/internet-of-things-in-construction-industry/

Top 10 BIM Future Trends- Significantly Growing in 2018

2018 guarantees to be an exciting year for BIM future trends! New technologies will be coming up and the last year’s trends are now grabbing hold. Now, more companies are earning profits as the failure costs got lessened and work processes became productive; all credits go to BIM! Most of the people are aware of the terms like the Internet of Things, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and 3D printing. Also, Engineering Professionals are aware of some BIM future trends like 4D, 5D and 6D BIM!

If you want your organization to reach newest levels, then check out these trending technologies and BIM future trends-

1.  Modular construction & prefab

Deduced costs and fast-paced construction process: these are the two essential advantages of modular architecture. Before construction starts, the elements get set and assembled at the workshop. However, there is an increase in the prefab preparation of MEP elements.

Prefab firstly starts with prefab concrete floors and walls. The Stabicad software for Revit provides such a work method. MEP engineers can create prefab drawings based on the BIM model info. They have correct product details and directions for the tasks. Due to this system, the designing gets smooth and early till the prefab process.

2. Internet of Things

The inclusion of significant technology titans like Google, Apple, and Samsung in the Internet of Things’ (IoT) market consistently try to make products smarter. There are several examples of the Internet of Things’ products in the market. The smart thermostats in the AC or refrigerators and intelligent ventilation systems have already raised the bar in the MEP industry for quite a long time.  However, we expect that the Internet of Things (IoT) is also going to enhance the work of modelers and installers.

There are several advantages that IoT (Internet of Things) provides for releasing BIM data to prefab workstations, modelers or suppliers. Modeling and ordering processes have become a lot simpler.  We must thank up-to-date data, designing is swift by directly relating ready-to-order products. These products get delivered straight to the construction site.

3. Augmented Reality/ Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality enables you to explore extensive 3D models via specs like the Oculus Rift. It is especially suitable for performing project presentations in front of the client. Virtual Reality generates a computerized scenario with real-life simulation.

Augmented Reality is also a type of Virtual Reality as it merges the real scenes with virtual representations. As an example, Microsoft HoloLens is a very hopeful tool for training, and also for carrying clash testing on job site. So, what are the chances to manage the project remotely when a technician with AR glasses on site wants to communicate with the manager off-site? This thing is a dream in the queue for many, but if the outcomes in construction projects acquire correct data, anything is probable. There is more progress in the pipeline in this section. So, this Augmented/Virtual Reality field is worth to keep a watch on.

4. Order quickly from the model

Many construction professionals realize that there is much more to BIM than just 3D insights. Data and BIM models together make a valuable pair. Many companies benefit from collaboration between suppliers, manufacturers, and BIM software developers. Latest engineering products are regularly available for sale as BIM objects, including current product data such as article numbers and dimensions. Because of this information, one can order products directly from the model. A significant benefit of such devices is that it avoids duplicate work.

5. Mobile cloud applications

The cloud collaboration trend, which you can mainly see in mobile cloud applications, is taking the world by storm. The broad range of the construction projects will also continue in 2018. Various people can concurrently view real-time data from the design and development process at distinct locations. All people require is an Internet connection.

There are some software platforms where co-workers can cooperate in the cloud through every phase until delivery. Engineers have access to the essential and latest information via different devices and the Microsoft HoloLens. This way is much easier to share BIM models with the building site which affects the quick reporting to promote productive cooperation.

6. BIM to the construction site: 3D laser scans and drones

This area is also going to expand. Consider operating with the point cloud. Conducting a 3D laser scan at the construction site can create it. Due to scanning, you can collect accurate data of the site. You can further send this data to a BIM modeling software like Revit. You can rely on this data, and it makes complex projects easy to handle. Also, the drone’s technology is getting combined to make plans more productive and error-free.

7. Customize Software or Get All-in-One?

Products are changing as per user’s requirements. Now, this trend is also continuing in the MEP industry too. Modelers can choose the software they need. For example, an engineer whose primary concern is in installing valves does not need expensive software with all the add-ins. In another case, he/she can use all-in-one packages which offer combined software functionality. Therefore, engineers have a broad range of array to choose from the available.

8. BIM focuses on green cities

Everyone knows that BIM ensures advanced system cooperation and internal performance. Further, the sustainable benefits of BIM play a vital role. Buildings can be more efficient in design if the materials are specific. There are advantages during the development phase where prefab and modular systems get applied. Also, the benefits exist during the operational period. A vast amount of energy costs and CO2 emission can lessen by using eco-friendly materials. Also, the circular economy is getting in benefit.

9. 3D Printing

3D printing technology had a massive impact in the construction arena last year. With the help of this technique, the first structure was wholly 3D printed in 2017. 3D printing technology is excellent for creating specific building elements in a very short span, reducing material loss. 3D printing has its uses in several ways. For example, instant prototypes creation to share with the partners or to build elements and prefab material uses 3D printing. A vast array of techniques is there in the future, waiting for us!

10. 4D, 5D and 6D BIM

In the present, there exist only a few people who think ahead 3D-BIM. However, this scene is going to modify in 2018; some companies are already advancing towards BIM future trends like 4D, 5D and also 6D-BIM. 4D-BIM method talks about the visible representation of the construction schedule. You can achieve this by using the Autodesk software- Navisworks. However, 5D-BIM (cost estimation) and 6D-BIM (project management) offer a much-added advantage for massive projects.

In addition to the conventional design parameters, features such as geometrics, aesthetics, acoustic and thermal properties incorporate in a plan. You can see how a choice affects the prices of a project in an early phase. 6D-BIM is mainly for maintenance of the projects. Due to these techniques, business owners will also maximize the profit on their venture in BIM. Hence, all these models come under BIM future trends.

So, these were all the convincing technologies to look forward to! Mention your views about BIM future trends below.

Source: http://blog.bimengus.com/top-10-bim-future-trends-2018/