Digitising Construction: Revolutionising Building Processes through Technology Integration
In the construction industry, the incorporation of digital technology has been met with historical resistance. However, in a PBC Today article, David Johnson, Pre-construction Director at Volumetric Building Companies (VBC), sheds light on the transformative applications of digitisation in construction, particularly in offsite and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC).
Embracing Digital Transformation at VBC
Having transitioned from a traditional construction mindset to a global modular construction giant, VBC is a testament to digitisation's transformative power. Johnson emphasises that technology is not merely an add-on but a central component of VBC's design-led approach. The company's culture of innovation, bolstered by board members with technology backgrounds, underscores a commitment to pioneering advancements in the industry.
The Crucial Role of Data in Construction
The significance of data in the construction landscape cannot be overstated. Johnson argues that a lack of comprehensive planning has led to numerous UK projects facing delays and exceeding budgets. In response, VBC leverages data across diverse areas, ranging from design and pre-construction to compliance and environmental performance. Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a key ally, simulating human intelligence and enabling a more profound analysis of construction data.
Limitless Opportunities with AI in Construction
The integration of AI in construction brings forth a myriad of possibilities. Johnson outlines practical applications, including the automatic generation of tender documents, the utilisation of standardised modular building components for efficient design solutions, and the incorporation of customisation into offsite solutions. AI's role extends to health and safety observation, where it aids in avoiding common issues through real-time data collection and analysis. Post-occupancy, AI manages maintenance, identifying and resolving issues during periods of lower building occupancy.
Digitising Offsite Construction Processes
Automating production lines in manufacturing is a prime example of digitisation's impact. VBC's timber-framed modular factory in California, which integrates robotics with design, showcases a zero-labour wall assembly line. The strategic use of AI in managing workflows enhances efficiency and addresses one of the primary challenges in modular factory operations – continuity of pipeline.
Automating Time-Intensive Processes in Construction
AI's role in automating time-intensive processes marks a paradigm shift in construction. AI's capabilities go beyond traditional parametric design, from analysing site constraints to developing optimal building scales and masses. Real-time simulation of building use aids in identifying inefficiencies, reducing the need for prolonged design engagement processes. By automating compliance checks, design teams can focus on creativity and design excellence.
Revolutionising Modular Building Procurement
Intellectual property concerns have contributed to fragmentation in the modular and MMC sector. Johnson advocates for a platform approach, promoting information sharing among manufacturers to simplify the process of achieving fire protection and compliance. The traditional competitive tendering model is identified as a barrier to data sharing. Johnson proposes client-led validation of capabilities to foster collaboration and enhance productivity across the modular industry.
Addressing Skills Gaps Through Digitisation
The construction industry faces a formidable challenge in the form of skills shortages. Technology integration presents an opportunity to make construction more appealing to the younger generation. Engineers, computer scientists, and data analysts are envisioned as integral to optimising project design, offsite manufacturing, construction management, and maintenance.
Balancing Technology with Humanity in Construction
While acknowledging the inevitability and power of AI adoption, Johnson emphasises the need to maintain a human-centric approach in the construction industry. Stressing that construction is fundamentally a relationship-based industry, he underscores the importance of people in driving business decisions.
Conclusion
As the construction industry marches towards a digitally enhanced future, Johnson's insights from the vantage point of VBC provide a roadmap for integrating technology seamlessly. From AI-driven data analysis to the automation of manufacturing processes, the potential benefits are vast. By embracing the digital revolution, construction stands poised to enhance efficiency and elevate safety, performance, and the overall lifespan of built assets.