Technology is affecting everything, and the construction industry is no exception to this. What used to be just part of sci-fi movies are slowly turning into real-life applications that have helped in improving productivity and safety at the same time. With new and practical applications being developed on a daily basis, there’s definitely a lot that we should look forward to.
That said, allow us to discuss the 3 construction trends to watch out in 2018.
1. The Use of Advanced Materials
The world of construction materials in the construction industry is advancing at a very remarkable rate. This enables further research and development, which contributes to overall efficiency.
In the last couple of months, there are a lot of remarkable innovations that entered the scene. There’s the “Self-healing” concrete that contains bacteria that’s sensitive to water. It germinates when water goes through these crack, and the gaps are then filled.
Let’s not forget “Kinetic Paving,” which refers to the collection of energy coming from the footsteps of pedestrians which is converted into electricity. If there’s 3D printing, there’s also 4D printed structures which are way better. It’s capable of reshaping and re-assembling over time according to how they are formed. They also react to various elements, such as the “smog-eating” buildings, and other chemicals that neutralize pollutants in the building.
2. Online Jobsite
New technologies have been getting rid of the details in communication that usually happens on the job site, with the project team, and other areas prone to error. Jobsite connectivity is becoming more accessible to achieve– thanks to the use of connected smartphones and tablets capable of sending and receiving information in real time to everyone who’s part of the project planning.
3. Exoskeletons and Wearables
Exoskeletons are one of the few technological advancements that have been developed with the purpose of protecting the worker and ensuring that they’ll be 100% productive. Just like any other technologies available in the market, they used to be only part of the movies– suits that would allow you to lift heavy machinery, supplies, etc. As impossible as it may sound, they are now turning into reality and are definitely helping the construction industry achieve its full potential.
As a matter of fact, exoskeletons were explicitly designed for this purpose. They were made to work with humans and allow them to overcome physical weaknesses. These suits could definitely lift the workload in a sense that the everyday repetitive tasks can be handled by it without making the wearer feel tired. Thus, it could even combat hand-arm vibration as well as arthritis.
A lot of companies are also offering wearable tags that ensure the safety of the worker while improving their overall performance as well. These clips can be attached to a safety vest, construction belts, etc. When someone accidentally slips, falls, or trips, it would send alerts to the main unit regarding where you’re currently at. That means first aid treatment can be given right away, preventing the problem from getting worse.
Indeed, there’s definitely a lot to look forward to in the construction industry, and there are no signs that it’s going to stop any time soon.
Author Bio
Chris Giarratana is a digital marketing consultant who works with small business and nonprofits. He helps drive conversions and boost sales through SEO marketing, freelance copywriting, and PPC management.
