The Human Element on the Jobsite

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4 ways the ‘boots on the ground’ outperform technology By David Denny When Roy Hardester began his construction career in 1996, he relied primarily on paper plans, two-way radios and face-to-face interactions to stay connected to his colleagues and complete his daily tasks. Today, as superintendent at Castle Contracting, he uses an iPad tablet, mobile phone and advanced software programs to keep people and projects on track. Having real-time access to the latest digital drawings and models is more convenient and efficient for all team members. “If someone has a problem on a job, you can send them the information … Read more

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New AI Resource Guide Available for Contractors

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Associated Builders and Contractors has released an artificial intelligence technology guide for the construction community, which includes definitions, construction use cases and considerations. The purpose of the guide is to provide a level of knowledge to ensure contractors can be active participants in the construction AI conversation. The guide describes uses of AI during the construction project lifecycle, including preconstruction, construction and building maintenance. It also provides definitions of terms, such as deep learning and predictive AI, as well as best practices in drafting office AI policies. “The possibilities of AI technology may sound endless, but we must first educate … Read more

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Hexagon Releases 1st Autonomous Construction Tech Outlook

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Eighty-four percent of technology decision makers at general contracting firms across North America, the United Kingdom and Australia have adopted some form of autonomous technology in the last year to help address key business priorities and challenges. Additionally, 79% said they will be investing more in autonomous (or automated) technology, with 54% planning to spend between $5-15 million ($7.1 million on average) in the next three years. Yet despite the strong adoption and investment numbers, there is a significant disconnect in the industry’s understanding of the technology, its application and benefits that will hinder optimization if not addressed. These are … Read more

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ViPER+ Accurately Tracks Workers’ Jobsite Location to Enhance Safety

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University of Houston computer scientists have developed a new system to keep construction workers safe at jobsites. Their findings and process are laid out in a study published in the research journal Applied Sciences. ViPER+ utilizes ultra-wideband technology for location tracking, and automates the monitoring of location-based safety policies and detects any violations of the policies while workers and equipment are working. The system surmounts challenges of other ultra-wideband-based, real-time safety monitoring systems primarily because it overcomes non-line of sight situations; e.g., when construction loaders and other equipment block the signal between the transmitter and receiver in ultra-wideband radio transmissions. … Read more

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New Learning Commons Provides Collaborative, Social Spaces

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The new Learning Commons at Kettering University located in Flint, Michigan complements the university’s curriculum with a facility  focused on collaboration, ideation and digital technology. The new 105,000-square-foot Learning Commons incorporates building systems that speak to the permanence and longevity of the institution, while offering durability for the decades ahead. The four-story design features an open-air atrium, and a skylight that fills the entire interior space with natural light. The first and second floors feature public gathering, dining and collaborative spaces, focused on creating dynamic social spaces for students. The third and fourth floors consist of additional collaborative spaces and … Read more

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