The generic concept of automation in the construction industry mostly revolves around robotics. However, owing to the increase in integrative approaches, the technology now exceeds multiples areas of construction.
Now everything from construction project management to phasing leverages automation systems. The current model of automation is essentially data driven and is expanding the use of cloud computing and augmented reality.
Introducing Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM is a comparatively new term that refers to the use of computational power for managing the technical, functional and economic aspect of construction. Within a very short period of time, it has become popular among architects, engineers and builders for construction related tasks.
The benefits of information modeling extend beyond uniform development of construction projects because features within buildings can be managed at the same time.
The success is evident in government organizations are using BIM for planning projects. There is the very recent example of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). The body has launched projects in which BIM would be used and taught to the participating engineers.
Even on the tech front, BIM has been influencing business behaviors. Autodesk, the globally known 3D design software company, made a purchase agreement with Graitec, a company that specializes in solutions for structural engineering. The aim was to initiate the BIM deliverance of Autodesk.
Growth through Cloud Computing
BIM has gained a large amount of traction through development in the cloud computation category. Companies can move their project data across multiple platforms using the cloud and also updating data simultaneously. It has a positive impact on how quickly the projects are executed and information is relayed within the construction chain.
There is also an intersection between the functionality of construction software and BIM tools. Procore and several other construction management tools can be integrated with scheduling tools to streamline project management and communication. This can be especially important in instances where there are multiple ongoing projects.
Parametric Modeling and Automation
Sophistication in BIM tools has empowered developers to not only automate construction, but also to analyze quantities and measurements of key project performance characteristics that are based on selected parameters.
The construction of Palomar Medical Center West has been highlighted as a case study in a report on BIM published by the American Institute of Architects. It sheds light on the construction engineers who have used the tool to add green features to the hospital.
The benefit is that by analyzing and comparing multiple designs, the engineer can tweak the parameters. For instance, it is possible to carry out new designs based on the parameters of energy use efficiency.
This use has largely aided the green construction industry, showing that it is possible to construct with a singular target of sustainable energy use, carbon emission and structural efficiency. This aspect of automation and review in construction is termed as parametric modeling.
Another excellent example of how automation is expanding beyond robotics is the development of an automated look-ahead schedule. This work has been done at the Center for Integrated Facility Engineering at Stanford. The project describes an automated tool that targets automated construction schedule generation, simulation via computers and also artificial intelligence systems for schedule optimization.
The entire analysis and real industry examples confirm that automation technology is reforming the construction industry and it is not merely limited to modeling.