By Peter J. Barden, AIA, NCARB Virtual reality, a computer-simulated environment that can simulate physical presence in places within the real world or imagined worlds, was once limited to the video game industry; however, it is quickly making its way into design and construction. In gaming, VR is an immersive technology that enhances the gaming experience: explore oceans or distant planets, fly planes or battle aliens. For the construction industry and the superintendents within it, VR isn’t simply an interactive movie, but a technology with true business potential — one that can save time, money and conflicts on the job. … Read more
Women and Children’s Shelter is Now Complete
FORT WORTH, Texas – Linbeck Group recently completed the $8.4-million Presbyterian Night Shelter’s Morris Foundation Women & Children’s Center in Fort Worth, Texas. Construction on the project began April 1, 2015 and was completed on schedule and on budget using, among other technological tools and processes, BIM 360 Field. “This is more than just another construction project for our Fort Worth team. We were able to take ownership by supporting the shelter’s mission in making the space a temporary home by decorating a room with all the essentials including lamps, bed linens, laundry supplies, baby essentials and more,” said Lizandro … Read more
Balfour Beatty Construction to Build High-rise Residential Tower in Midtown Atlanta
ATLANTA, Ga. – The Related Group has selected Balfour Beatty Construction to build its new luxury, mixed-use residential tower in the heart of Midtown Atlanta, Georgia. Located at West Peachtree and 14th St.,, the 39-story tower will become the tallest residential tower project built in Atlanta since 2009. The Related Group’s Midtown Atlanta project will feature 390 luxury apartments with 6,500 square feet of retail space. The property will feature a pool terrace with clubroom amenities and a fire pit terrace on the 39th floor. Ideally situated in the gateway to Atlanta’s Arts District, Piedmont Park and the Midtown business … Read more
Upgraded Asta Powerproject BIM Syncs Cost Estimating Data for 5-D Construction Planning
DENVER, Colo. – Elecosoft just launched the latest version of Asta Powerproject BIM, which brings exciting new improvements in 4-D planning to help customers improve efficiency and win more business. This third iteration of the BIM product also boasts enriched cost estimation capabilities – working more closely with cost estimation systems to enable contractors to build a 5-D integrated project view. All changes were based on user requests and feedback, proving once again the company’s long-standing commitment to optimizing its products to align with user needs. “Our aim is to make sure our products continue to support our customers’ ability … Read more
Drone Program Earns Innovation Recognition
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A visual data analytics tool utilizing drones capturing high-resolution video and photos, piloted at the Golden 1 Center construction site in Sacramento, California, earned an award for innovation from the Turner Construction Company. This is the fourth year the company has highlighted outstanding innovations and achievements. A team from University of Illinois, funded by a nearly $1-million National Science Foundation Cyber-Physical Systems grant, developed a predictive visual data analytics tools to automate and streamline today’s time-consuming practices for construction progress monitoring. This award-winning solution utilizes both images and videos taken with camera drones and 4-D Building Information … Read more