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“
BIM CAN BE USED TO
GENERATE EXACT
QUANTITIES OF MATERIALS REQUIRED IN THE BUILDING AND SHOW HOW THESE
WILL HOLD UP OVER TIME . prevent the spread of the virus , and the implications for health and safety , as well as productivity , security and cost reduction are enormous ,” said Evans .
Building information modelling
Building information modelling ( BIM ) is rapidly becoming a game changer in the construction industry .
More than just a three-dimensional representation of a building and its physical and functional characteristics , BIM can be used to generate exact quantities of materials required in the building and show how these will hold up over time . It also detects potential design clashes before construction begins , thus reducing change orders and rework , and simulates construction schedules so that each phase of the building process can be accurately planned . Any updates are communicated in real-time to project participants , which means everyone works from the most up-to-date information .
“ The primary benefit of BIM is that it enhances communication between professionals and contractors , streamlines time , cost and efficiency during the construction process and helps all project participants produce a better product ,” said Evans .
Virtual reality
The immersive visualisation qualities of virtual reality ( VR ) are enabling architects to better showcase their designs to not only clients , but also construction companies , thus enhancing their perception of a proposed building .
Additionally , construction business owners are increasingly using VR to train and upskill their construction workers in areas of safety , equipment operation and building systems installation .
Robots and drones
It won ’ t be long before drones ( or unmanned aerial vehicles ) become commonplace on construction sites . Drones provide construction teams with an overhead view of equipment , materials and people and are rapidly becoming integral to improving efficiencies on site .
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