Construction technology is always evolving. The construction industry has historically embraced new ideas in chemistry, computing, and engineering very quickly. Innovation in construction technology helps keep projects safe, efficient, and easy to budget. Here is a quick roundup of 4 innovations in construction technology that are influencing the building projects taking place all around us.
Practical Mini Cranes
Cranes have been essential construction tools for over 5000 years – when ancient Mesopotamians first put them to use in modern times. The most common types of cranes have been tower cranes and large mobile cranes. These machines are wonderful, but they are not suitable for every job. Some small jobs do not need these vast machines, and their extreme cost makes projects far less efficient. Thankfully, there is now a new kind of mobile crane that is suitable for smaller jobs. Construction contractors that only need to move reasonably small objects now have the option of contacting a mini crane hire company. Mini cranes are easy road transportable and do not use as much power or require as much expertise to operate as their more bulky cousins. Miniaturization is important in the construction industry as contractors attempt to cut down on costs.
Virtual Reality
At first glance, it might be hard to see a use for virtual reality in the construction industry. It just so happens, however, that the technology is proving very handy indeed for some forward-thinking contractors. VR, however, is slowly creeping into the industry and making projects far more efficient to conceptualize and complete. VR realizations of buildings can help stakeholders understand the project they are buying into. They also allow architects and construction staff to troubleshoot any potential problems with a building before they arise. Many larger construction companies are investing heavily in virtual reality and augmented reality software. Virtual reality also allows construction and architecture professionals to display their work at conferences and to potential customers.
Building Information Modeling
Virtual reality can be considered one element of a Building Information Modelling system. A Building Information Model is a digital representation of every aspect of a project. This digital representation can then be shared among stakeholders, experts, and construction professionals in order to increase the knowledge base – and therefore efficiency – of a project. Building Information Modeling can, in theory, prevent the breakdowns of communication that are the cause of so many disastrous messes in construction.
3D Printing
3D printing has been around for a while now, but it is only just beginning to have an impact in the world of construction. Earlier this year, the first genuine tenants moved into a 3D-printed home that was constructed in 120 hours in Holland. This marks a watershed moment in construction history. Computer-Aided Design programs can pass information onto 3D printers remotely, which can quickly construct the basic structure of a home without rest. If embraced wholesale, this technology could completely change the construction market. In theory, 3D printing technology could help house people fleeing from war or who require temporary shelters that can be built quickly.
