8 advanced construction equipment that you must know
In recent years, the construction equipment industry has undergone significant changes. Innovative technology has led to smarter, more fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly machines. As a result, we can expect to see several technological advancements in construction equipment in the future. In this article, we will explore eight advanced construction equipment trends that you need to know.
First, the global market size for construction equipment is expected to reach $222.14 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.6% from 2021. The rise in CAGR can be attributed to increased commercial, industrial, and residential construction activities, as well as rising government investments in infrastructure in developing countries. Additionally, consumers are more inclined to use fuel-efficient and advanced equipment to track work and reduce operational costs.
1. Smart technology for construction equipment
The future will see more advanced intelligent construction equipment that facilitates machine components' communication, improving predictive and telematic systems. This ability to share valuable data will help engineers and supervisors make quick decisions.
2. Wearable tech
Wearables are becoming increasingly popular on construction sites, and they use sensors to collect and relay data to other workers and the project manager. There are several types of smart wearables available, such as smart boots, smart glasses, smart helmets, smart safety vests, and smartwatches.
Smart boots have in-built charging technology to power other smart devices, and they help track the worker's location, while their pressure detection sensors help detect small shocks or falls and summon help. Smart glasses detect hazardous materials and alert the worker and warn about leading edges to protect the wearer from falls in elevated locations. Smart helmets have sensor bands for fatigue detection and microsleep protection for enhanced protection. Smart safety vests offer location tracking, emergency alerts, and data about worker activity and shift length, and they keep workers safe, especially those operating in hazardous zones. Smartwatches can detect falls and alert safety officers for immediate response and monitor a worker's vital signs to prevent exhaustion.
3. Fuel-efficient equipment
Construction firms are interested in vehicles that use less energy as the cost of gas soars. Energy-efficient construction machines that would enhance the industry's sustainability include those with interfaces. This construction equipment has an "economy mode" that uses engine power only when needed.
4. Adoption of Building Information Model (BIM)
BIM allows engineers to formulate and display a computer rendering of the project and its utilities. The supervisor can get real-time data to prefabricate parts, thus completing the project accurately and on time. Other valuable BIM software solutions affecting construction include ArchiCAD, Autodesk BIM 360, Revit, Trimble Connect, and Navisworks.
5. Use of artificial intelligence
The Internet of Things, robotics, and AI can significantly reduce building costs. Engineers and constructors can send mini-robots to a construction site with cameras to track work progress. AI will continue to be used when planning electrical and plumbing systems in various modern buildings. It can also be used to develop and improve worksite safety systems, alerting supervisors of any safety issues, production issues, and real-time interaction between workers and machinery. Even post-construction, engineers can collect valuable information about the building using drones, sensors, and wireless technology. The AI-powered algorithms provide insight into the structure's performance, helping the supervisor monitor any problems, schedule maintenance, and direct human behavior to overcome security and safety challenges.
6. Rental services
The rental business services trend positively impacts the construction industry by allowing smaller construction firms to access advanced construction equipment without incurring the full cost of purchase.
7. 3D printing
3D printing technology can revolutionize the construction industry by producing precast concrete blocks and other building components. In addition, the technology can produce custom-designed construction equipment parts on-demand.
8. Automation of construction equipment
Automation of construction equipment is a trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Advancements in technology have led to the development of autonomous construction equipment that can operate without human intervention. Automation can help to reduce labor costs, improve productivity, and enhance safety. Some examples of autonomous construction equipment include excavators, bulldozers, and loaders that can perform repetitive tasks like digging and grading. These machines can operate for longer periods without requiring rest, making them ideal for large-scale projects. Additionally, autonomous equipment can be controlled remotely, reducing the need for human workers to be physically present at the site.
In conclusion, the construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with several technological advancements shaping its future. The trends discussed in this article, including smart technology, wearables, fuel-efficient equipment, BIM, artificial intelligence, rental services, 3D printing, and automation, are just a few examples of the ways in which technology is changing the industry. These trends are expected to continue to evolve in the coming years, leading to a more efficient, sustainable, and safer construction industry.