Innovations in Construction - Planning in 3D

The construction industry is receiving a few upgrades. It may seem strange, but 3D modeling, Virtual Reality, and even aerial drones are being used for construction. 

Professionals can now plan out their projects in 3D, then survey potential sites and keep tabs on their projects. As the project moves forward, managers can keep tabs on the construction site and manage the project from above. These technologies can provide the most accurate picture of the building in progress, from the planning phase to completion.

• Planning buildings in three dimensions
  • Planning software, like AutoDesk Revit, give designers the tools to plan out their buildings in three dimensions. They can make the same precise measurements as traditional CAD programs, in a full 3D space.
  • Professionals can better visualize the finished project with a fully rendered 3D model. They can view this model from their computers or navigate it in real time with virtual reality headset.
  • Many 3D-planning programs can display engineering data on the various components of the building. Engineers can see how the building's parts will come together and make adjustments as needed.
• HVAC design with 3D software
  • Designers can also plan out the ventilation system with the same software. They can quickly add vents and ducts as they plan out each room. They can also add control and balance dampers as needed, for a fully realized HVAC system.
  • Engineers can also visualize the full HVAC system in the 3D space. With integrated engineering data, they can design an efficient system from the start.
  • They can also easily determine where to place control and balancing dampers throughout the system. This ensures that all rooms receive even air distribution.
• Site survey with aerial drones
  • Project managers can survey potential sites for the project’s location with an aerial drone. They can also provide accurate measurements and data for their design teams using the drone's cameras.
  • Drones can provide a bird’s eye view of the site during the construction phase. This allows managers to perform quick inspections and observe progress.
  • A bird’s eye view is also good for productivity and maintaining efficiency on site. Professionals can see their work in real time and focus on areas that may be running behind.

Modern tech can help take much of the guesswork out of construction projects. With these design tools, designers can more accurately represent the finished project. Engineers can incorporate important data into the design process, so that project’s start on the right footing. And with modern technology, construction professionals can focus on the most important part of their job: completing the job.

Do you work in the construction industry? Have you seen aerial drones in your job site? Or maybe you use a 3D planning program to design your projects? Tell us how technology help you work in the comments. We want to hear your stories!

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