Technology has transformed so many parts of our lives through the years. From travel and fitness to work and entertainment, its impact has simply been felt everywhere.
Such trends mean that many industries have been through a major shift in the past few decades, as new concepts have emerged to provide fresh possibilities and challenge traditional outlooks. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the world of construction.
New construction technology is emerging year after year and providing remarkable solutions to age-old problems. Here, we are going to examine some of the key construction industry trends that are bringing a new definition to the phrase ‘construction innovation’. The issues on our agenda in this article include:
- 3D Modelling
- Modular Construction
- Sustainability
- Offsite Construction
- Construction Robotics
- Building Materials
- Construction Monitoring
- Construction Safety
Ideas and systems that are taking construction innovation to a whole new level:
1. 3D Modelling
The ability to create 3D imagery and graphics has impacted many areas through the years, with an obvious example being the video gaming industry. However, such tools have also transformed the design world and become a key part of the modern construction scene.
Our look at modular building construction materials explains how the process of modular architecture is reliant on 3D technology. Why? Because it is a great way to both bring designs to life and thoroughly explore the available possibilities – including when it comes to materials. Being able to see ideas and spaces in this way offers major benefits to everyone involved in the project.
2. Modular Construction
Modular processes have become a core part of modern construction innovation in recent years. As we have discussed elsewhere, modular construction is increasingly popular and our very own prefabricated pods can be found in areas including hotels, hospitals and student accommodation.
But, why are organisations choosing to take this approach? Well, this new construction technology offers a range of potential benefits. There is generally a reduction in execution times, as well as the opportunity to offer personalisation and quality standardisation. Costs may be reduced, while there is also scalability to construction projects and key characteristics.
3. Sustainability
The issue of sustainability has become a key concern in almost every sector across the past few years and it is undoubtedly one of the most important construction industry trends too. As our page on sustainable construction outlines, the concept is key to ensuring that we meet carbon reduction goals.
However, it is vital to remember customers and clients also emphasize this idea. In addition, some authorities may also look to encourage sustainable construction through methods like tax breaks. Sustainability can take in a range of areas, including the reduction of waste and the types of materials used in a project.
4. Offsite Construction
The idea of developing part of a property away from the building site where it will eventually be positioned might have sounded bizarre a few years ago. However, now it is a key part of modern construction innovation. Our article on modular construction explains how the process begins in a factory setting with an industrialised system. Then, as time passes, our modules can be shipped and assembled there.
Again, this process is believed to offer a host of benefits, with a major one being related to time. Areas that feature industrialised elements can be made simultaneously, which cuts time when compared to the traditional process.
5. Construction Robotics
The idea of using robots in construction might sound like science fiction to some, but it is very much a fact these days. This issue links back to our use of 3D modelling in modular architecture processes. The availability of building information modelling means we can automate design and make use of robotic manufacturing. The key benefits? Time efficiency and value for money.
Modular pods are created using an automated and modern process, so it makes sense that cutting-edge concepts like robotics play a role in this area. The use of such technology undoubtedly demonstrates the idea of ‘construction innovation’ perfectly and it will be interesting to see how this area develops across the coming years.
6. Building Materials
The construction materials used in modular activity are the same as those in other parts of the construction world. After all, you will see wood, steel and concrete play a crucial role in such projects. Concrete can offer a solid structure, while wood is light and easy to work with. In addition, steel is tough, non-combustible and can be easily shaped.
However, as we have mentioned elsewhere on our site, the key construction innovation linked to this area actually relates to the process. The modular construction approach has an emphasis on flexibility, so the design can have an impact on the materials used. Again, the use of 3D modelling means you can explore all the available options.
7. Construction Monitoring
Technology now lets us keep track of many things in our lives, from our fitness to parcels arriving at our homes. Another of the key construction industry trends of recent years revolves around a similar issue, as it relates to monitoring.
Managing major projects is not always straightforward, but many organisations are now putting measures in place to improve monitoring levels. For instance, we have our own monitoring platform that provides traceability through a QR operating system. This ensures that there is a level of control across every stage of the production process.
8. Construction Safety
Last, but certainly not least, is health and safety. Few issues are quite as important as this one in the modern building industry, so it makes sense that construction innovation trends have emerged in relation to it. Fresh approaches have transformed the area and mean that the very idea of safety is being handled in a new way.
For example, the traditional approach to construction sees different trades work in small spaces to complete projects. However, our production centre in Spain has specific spaces for each individual process. This shift in the way of doing things is hugely important when improving worker safety.
A fascinating future awaits related to construction innovation
Technology plays a key role in the construction industry these days. Modern construction innovation comes in many forms, affecting areas as diverse as sustainability, safety, monitoring and architecture.
Modular construction and its related processes offer a fascinating glimpse into the incredible construction industry trends that are now available – and all of these are transforming the sector. However, as technology is constantly evolving, these concepts are unlikely to be the last construction innovation trends that we see.
The world is changing all the time and we simply cannot wait to discover what’s next in the domain of new construction technology. A fascinating future surely awaits.
If you are interested in modular pods or you want further information about our construction process to see if it matches with what you are looking for in your new project, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
