For many in the construction and labor industries, there’s a certain skepticism surrounding technology. Automation and robots often strike fear into hard-working men and women who are worried their jobs will be eliminated.
Though change is always daunting, technology doesn’t pose quite the threat many believe. It can instead be a huge asset to both management and the average worker through safety improvements, increased visibility and coordination, and better communication among teams. As technology improves the safety, efficiency, and cost of projects, this opens up a world of clients and workers that might not otherwise be able to start something new.
Technology creates opportunities and deepens the skillset of an already massive industry, and here at Steadfast Enterprises, we’re excited to share these opportunities with you.
Let’s see some of the technologies on the horizon in 2021!
Chemistry
Millions every year are invested in our infrastructure, so there’s a whole science dedicated to improving the materials we use every day. One exciting new advancement is self-healing concrete. This revolutionary discovery would save countless taxpayer dollars while improving safety and the longevity of roads and buildings. Dutch scientists discovered a special bacteria that creates limestone when wet, so concrete with this bacteria is able to essentially fill in its own cracks as the bacteria do their work.
Another such chemistry-based achievement is transparent aluminum. This Star Trek idea is no longer just scifi! Soldiers, aquariums, NASA, and construction will all immensely benefit from this bullet-proof material that is four times as strong as glass but just as transparent.
Robotics
We’ve all heard about drones. While this technology isn’t the latest on the scene, it’s one that has far-reaching and ongoing benefits for the construction world. Drones are ideal for site inspections/surveys, architectural modeling, project management, and accessing hard-to-reach places. Drones not only make workers’ jobs easier, they make them safer.
Drones are nothing compared to swarm construction technologies that combine robotics with the building techniques of termites. These small robotics work together to build an array of items, similar to robotic brick layers that are programmed to build structures alongside skilled masons, reducing the need for heavy lifting.
Automation & AI
Of course, there are countless AI, analytics, and automated technologies that have changed the way we create and build. From 3D printed houses to predictive analytics, modern methods of managing construction sites streamline operations, reduce hazards, navigate safety concerns, and increase productivity.
AI can identify safety hazards in photos, analyze past data to create ideal project schedules, assess risk on an ongoing project (and make decisions or changes as needed), and much more.
Change is inevitable and if you’re ready for it, it can be exciting, offering new heights and depths to the construction industry.
Steadfast Entities is already providing technology to the construction world through labor-saving tools. What do you think about technology in construction? What will the future bring? Leave a comment below!