New construction trends have the potential to revolutionize the industry. Although construction firms are known for being hesitant to adopt new technologies, they can help companies enhance workflow and achieve impressive levels of productivity. At some point, adoption will likely be inevitable.
Here are 6 construction tech trends to look out for in 2022, and how the SmartBarrel device can help you improve efficiency.
1. Building Information Modeling (BIM)
A noteworthy trend in the construction industry is the increased use of Building Information Modeling (BIM).
A bulk of construction involves planning and designing, often done collaboratively by all the stakeholders involved due to the size and scale of projects. The traditional model makes it difficult to visualize changes and developments in operations.
Building Information Modeling resolves these problems by providing a central database where everyone is able to work simultaneously. Hence, workflow efficiency and productivity are increased. 5D BIM can be used for cost and time overlays, while 6D BIM is often used for energy budgeting.
2. 3D printing
Another one of the top construction industry trends is the use of 3D printing. Given its efficiency, 3D printing is becoming a common alternative to traditionally manufacturing construction elements like concrete, polymer, and metal.
Its introduction has allowed companies to print segments layer by layer using advanced materials. 3D printing requires fewer resources for key construction processes and materials, including extrusion, additive welding, and power bonding.
It not only eliminates the likelihood of error (increasing productivity as a result), but it’s also suitable for both small and large-scale companies, making it accessible for implementation and use.
When combined with the use of BIM, flexibility in operations increases significantly.
3. Project management platforms
Construction project management platforms are another one of the construction industry trends that’s seeing increased use.
Cloud-based software can help with proper time management, quality delivery, and construction phase management. With the ability to store large volumes of data that can be easily accessed, organizations can leverage these platforms to make more informed decisions and fuel growth.
Accurate data accumulated from previous jobs can be used to reach estimates for subsequent ones. With error-free data, you can also prevent things like time fraud.
Project management platforms have become a trend since they help workers set and reach milestones while also making remote work possible, so that as a project manager, you won’t need to be present on site to monitor activities.
Look for platforms that easily integrate with on-site tools like the SmartBarrel device so you can increase efficiency for data collection. The SmartBarrel device also comes with its own dashboard platform to track and manage operations.
4. Construction robotics
Construction work requires a sufficient amount of labor, which can equate to a lot of money being spent on workers. With construction robotics, companies can reduce labor costs and lessen the burden on workers, automating labor-intensive tasks like bricklaying, rebar tying, welding, and painting.
Construction robotics are good for increasing workflow, enhancing productivity, and eliminating error through robots handling jobs like load lifting, excavation, transportation, and demolition.
Construction robots constitute a more efficient alternative to manpower in certain construction areas. With fast and high-precision work achieving overall efficiency, construction firms benefit from reduced labor requirements and decreased risk of liability.
5. Construction worker safety technologies
Worker safety is a major concern when it comes to construction projects, and companies are responsible for ensuring the well-being of all workers. Any injuries sustained on the job creates liability. Construction trends for 2022 have adapted accordingly, with modern-day technologies creating new opportunities for increased safety on construction sites.
Along with improvements to personal protective equipment (PPE), artificial intelligence has been used to predict hazards so workers can take the proper preventative measures.
Drones and image-capturing devices, too, have been used for surveillance to ensure workers are taking the safety precautions needed and using their PPE as required. Another technology involves virtual reality (VR), used to train workers on several safety measures.
Labor management tools like the SmartBarrel device have safety tracking features to increase worker safety and verify that employees are wearing protective equipment.
6. Sustainable building materials
As concern for the environment increases throughout the years, more companies are opting for sustainable building materials for constructing buildings. Innovation has seen building materials made from eco-friendly alternatives like mycelium composites, biofoam, bioplastics, carbon composites, and aerogel.
Not only are they environmentally-beneficial, but they also have great properties. Hydroceramic and nanomaterials, for example, are lighter and have high water retention ability, making them more suitable for construction and building durability. Other materials like bamboo and transparent woods are highly durable.
Advances in technology will see even more sustainable building materials developed.
Improve efficiency with the SmartBarrel device
Construction industry trends point to a new way to solve long-standing issues. When these trends will be implemented is a valid point of concern, but as projects grow larger and more grand, growth will be inevitable. Technological advancements are necessary for every industry, and even more so for construction to address its main pain points.
The SmartBarrel device is a magnetic plug-and-play box that’s user-friendly and easy to get started with. It’s weatherproof, solar-powered, and LTE-connected, suitable for job sites of all sizes, from small residential projects to larger megaprojects. And since it’s self-powered, you won’t need an IT department or any advanced infrastructure for maintenance and set up.
Our device enhances productivity and increases efficiency, allowing contractors and subcontractors a cost-effective approach that reduces overhead expenses in the long run.
Benefit from safety tracking features that combine construction site PPE verification, on-site incident tracking, easy employee onboarding, and message broadcasting capabilities for more efficient communication.
Stay on top of safety compliance and never lose track of your job site as you track whether workers are wearing their personal protective equipment and masks. Detailed and automatically updated construction incident reports help you reduce risk and ensure safety compliance at all times.
Interested in adopting a more efficient method for overseeing projects? Book a demo with SmartBarrel today!
