Artificial intelligence has steadily integrated into the construction industry over the last few years. With the massive adoption of AI recently, it’s becoming increasingly clear that construction won’t be immune to its presence. While some are resistant to others are adopting AI solutions into their everyday construction processes and reaping the benefits of improved productivity, more accurate timelines, better collaboration, and safer construction sites. So how is AI being used in construction right now, and what do we expect for the future? Let’s dive in.
HOW AI IS BEING USED IN CONSTRUCTION TODAY
Different types of AI, such as machine learning, are being integrated into every stage of construction, from design to operations. These advanced technologies transform traditional workflows by providing unprecedented insights and analytical power. AI solutions for construction improve project timelines, help projects stay on budget, and make construction sites safer by predicting risks, optimizing resources, and reducing human errors.
- Safety and Risk Mitigation —Machine learning and AI construction solutions have significantly helped reduce risk and improved worker safety. AI-powered solutions combined with construction webcams can monitor job sites in real time for issues such as unsafe scaffolding, missing protective gear, entrance into restricted areas, and other hazards.
Project Management — Artificial intelligence in construction project management bridges the gap between design intent and as-built conditions. With a combination of 3D laser scanning and automated AI-powered analysis, teams can receive reports on quality issues and discrepancies against the design versus the plan.
Additionally, AI can help measure site progress for major trades by analyzing 360-degree photos regularly and identifying components like drywall, framing, and MEPs by room, floor, and overall project. This type of AI analysis compares the as-built 360 photos to the plan or project’s BIM and identifies if installation has been completed, and to what percentage. The analysis report is then accessible to teams from a single source of truth so that they’re able to track the true progress of the project and ensure any scheduling, payment applications and resource allocations are being made based on the most accurate and up to date information.- Quality Assurance — AI-powered analysis can not only track how much of the project has been completed but also monitor the quality of work and look for defects that need to be addressed before they become unreachable or a larger issue. In the case for life safety, AI analysis can play a key role in identifying risks in above-ceiling penetrations. For Example, with Multivista’s Firestopping solution the AI analysis can detect over 1,000 above-ceiling unsealed penetration types, ensuring teams complete the construction to the necessary safety standards and compliance requirements.
WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF AI IN CONSTRUCTION?
The digital transformation continues to shape the construction industry and as more AI-powered solutions are adapted into workflows, the industry will become more advanced over time. We expect this trend to continue, especially as AI becomes more proficient with automated analysis, detection, and reporting functionalities.
- Enhancing productivity and future planning — As more data is collected and analyzed by AI systems, the construction industry will benefit from the technology becoming more accurate in identifying and predicting project progress and resource gaps. Managing costs and timelines will be more effective and less time consuming as this enhanced forecasting ability will allow for better resource allocation and financial planning. Additionally, AI will provide crucial insights into the lifecycle of structural elements, predicting potential failures before they occur. This proactive approach will not only prevent accidents and improve safety but also significantly enhance overall project efficiency by reducing downtime and unexpected repairs.
- Design impacts — AI is set to revolutionize sustainable design practices in the construction industry. By analyzing vast amounts of data on materials, environmental factors, and energy consumption, AI can help determine which designs are more sustainable and environmentally friendly. It can optimize building plans to require less material, as well, AI solutions can help teams to avoid rework by identifying issues early on so they can be addressed quickly, thereby reducing waste and lowering the carbon footprint of construction projects. Furthermore, AI can simulate and improve energy efficiency in buildings, considering factors like solar orientation, insulation, and HVAC systems to create structures that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly efficient and environmentally responsible.
MODERNIZE YOUR CONSTRUCTION WORKFLOWS WITH MULTIVISTA
From Firestopping assessment automation to Progress Reporting, Multivista and Hexagon’s AI powered solutions can help streamline processes for your construction projects and keep them on budget and on time. Together we are actively monitoring how AI is being used in the industry to provide solutions that stay on the cutting edge and shape the future of AI in construction.
For an example of these AI solutions in action, read how DPR Construction uses our reality capture and AI innovation to build highly complex and technical data centers and the practical applications of AI in their construction project management.
With years of experience, thousands of completed projects, and millions of square feet scanned, Multivista continues to lead the way in implementing AI solutions for the construction industry. By embracing these technologies, construction companies can improve efficiency, reduce risks, and deliver higher-quality projects in less time.
Looking to start using AI powered solutions on your projects? Book a demo here.
