Technological advancement has a lasting impact in all areas of our lives, from communication to transportation and our individual jobs. In fact, advancement is occurring so fast in today’s modern age that technology is rapidly changing different industries.
When it comes to the construction industry, technology has already made a strong impact. By advancing technological aspects of construction, the results can affect society overall as it helps the construction process develop at a faster speed and provide better, more concise results.
Here are a few ways in which technology is participating in the construction industry.
Materials
The use of carbon fiber and 3D printing has helped improve construction, and the path to where it’s leading offers exciting futuristic concepts of 3D printed homes. For now, 3D printing is being used more sparingly, but it’s already providing possibilities of more efficient and sturdy construction materials.
The carbon fiber can be printed in structures such as the shape of honeycombs, making for enduring walls. This material has revolutionized different types of construction such as in wind turbine blades.
Its properties, such as high stiffness and low weight, are increasingly preferred by civil engineers. Carbon fiber is well known for having greater strength than steel and less weight.
Heavy Weights
The lifting of heavy weights has always been a cause of potential danger to those handling the materials during construction, as well as a cause for delays and increased costs.
Technology is now providing a safer and more productive way around it. Tower cranes, which are commonly used at major construction sites, help provide the ability to lift heavy loads.
Until recently, this process required the assistance and active participation of several staff members, placing them in a possibly hazardous situation. However, by using an auto hook, it’s now possible to attach and release heavy material with no handling involved.
The operator uses a remote control to make it function from a safe distance, therefore not requiring any manual intervention. Not only does it help avoid unnecessary risks but it also optimizes cargo handling and productivity as well as involving fewer staff members to function.
Recycling
Recycling is starting to become more common in the construction industry as it’s become more acceptable that not all material must be new to be strong and useful.
The idea of recycling concrete has been around for some time; however, it required a long, difficult process. Its end product was potentially dangerous because of its low quality and durability.
Today, new technologies are creating an impact on the recycling of concrete, mostly by obtaining aggregate. This technology has yet to become part of the common practice in the construction world but the movement is already happening.
The helmet is a necessity for anyone working at a construction site due to safety reasons.
Technology allows the equipment to function and achieve new lengths by using smart helmets. They come equipped with transparent visors as well as augmented reality.
By utilizing sensors and cameras, the staff member is provided with information related to the surrounding environment and potential dangers. It allows for another way to avoid potential hazards that construction workers face on a daily basis.
The construction industry is changing at a rapid pace due to the influence of technology in the field. There is always room for further advancement in the field and it’s exciting to experience and see what’s to come!
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