The construction industry has experienced a series of revolutions to keep up with the dynamic needs and preferences of the modern-day world. The first industrial revolution invented steam-powered engines to mechanize the production of tools and materials for construction. The second revolution was a significant milestone as man invented electricity, and construction work was now easier. For instance, welding and smoldering became easier with electricity, than it was with steam-powered engines.
The modern generation is now living in the third and fourth revolution where electronics, information technology, and digital technology are the new wave. For instance, construction engineers can easily access Custom Molding Manufacturing services for a precise combination of pieces and materials. The high output rate is also beneficial to both the manufacturers and customers as projects can now be handled efficiently without delay.
So, what are the other technological revolutions that have enhanced the modern construction industry?
Well, they include but aren’t limited to the following:
- Internet
First, it is important to note that the future of the construction industry is aided and guided by the internet. The internet has already contributed to significant innovations, and it is anticipated that more great things are yet to come within the next years. Contractors can use management software for efficiency and real-time coordination. The whole industry can also link and exchange ideas thanks to cloud-based collaborations and telecommunication.
The internet creates a readily available market for construction materials, which is beneficial to manufacturers and suppliers. In the wake of the revolution, profits and funding are more important than anything else, to keep the projects and research going.
- 3D Printing
3D printing innovation was a big leap to many industries, construction not being an exception. A 3D printer run by robotics can have the pan of a big commercial building in just one day, which increases the speed of production and design possibilities. Moreover, it significantly cuts on operational costs as all resources are harnessed to do the job within the shortest time possible.
- Prefabrication
Gone are the days when everything would be processed at the construction site, which significantly costs much in terms of labor and resources. Contractors are fast shifting to prefabrication to increase efficiency and productivity in the construction process. Moreover, prefabrication allows production automation, which significantly reduces the overall cost of production and wage rate that would otherwise be spent on the construction site.
Some jurisdictions may even demand that you get on-site engineering documentation, which can be expensive, given that it isn’t a permanent station.
- Automated and Robotic Equipment
Some construction facilities or rather construction materials pose great danger and threat to humanity, hence the need for automatic and robotic equipment for finishing and complicated labor. Japan is already incorporating robotic applications in spray-paint and installing structural steel, especially in high commercial buildings. Robots are effective and can do repetitive tasks without losing a sense of focus or wasting resources.
That is how technology is changing the perception of human-labor reliance on completing projects on time. This new wave will greatly impact our economy and social lives as the cost of construction significantly become lower as technology advances.