R&D for architecture and construction can help move projects forward in ways that we once could only imagine. Understanding the value of AI in architecture and construction is growing year on year. In this article we’ll look at why harnessing the power of AI is so important, and how R&D for architecture and construction can help you realise your goals.
What does your dream construction project look like?
Would you like reliable cash flow? A funding source you know won’t let you down? Simplification of site safety issues? Perhaps your biggest gripe is supply chain failure and you long to find a way to be sure of having the right materials delivered at the right time?
The root of overcoming these challenges is research and development and more and more the solution is found in AI. R&D tax relief can help you embrace both research into the problem and subsequent solutions offered by AI, so you can focus on your future innovations.
How is AI transforming construction globally?
As professions go, construction is up there with the oldest and most essential to our species. We’ve been building shelters since the dawn of time and part of the reason for our continued development and success is the fact that we have changed and adapted as our knowledge and understanding has grown. Technology makes construction safer, more efficient and more reliable.
AI takes a number of roles in helping the industry identify and reach its goals. We have seen simple things like optimisation of work schedules and maintaining a secure environment, through to more complex innovations with far-reaching impact.
AI and efficiency
Large or small, the key conflicts for a project revolve around the same issues – delays, staffing and supply – but while it may be straightforward to resolve these conflicts on a smaller scale, complex, multi-year global projects can prove almost impossible to manage effectively and consistently.
This is where AI comes in. Machine learning was born to find patterns and data anomalies, and as such, AI can construct effective ways of managing schedules, and crucially, highlight potential issues before they happen. This foresight means you can avoid expensive delays, and circumvent issues relating to vendors, suppliers, and other associates.
AI, contingency and robotics
Contingency planning is a big part of limiting loss. By using the pattern detecting characteristics of AI you can identify common trends and then surmise the outcome of a permit delay or incident. Anticipation leads to expert planning and reduces the risk of loss or worse.
Autonomous devices are also taking a key role in the management of the construction lifecycle and we’re seeing an increase in the use of robotic workers, drones, and autonomous vehicles. The impact on labour costs and efficiency is tangible. Robots are taking a role in task-based elements such as bricklaying or pouring concrete, autonomous vehicles are invaluable in transporting materials, and drones are increasingly part of surveying operations, bringing a clear, comprehensive view of progress and activity on site. Furthermore, these roles are already being applied to robots such as Boston Dynamics Spot, a robot that navigates terrain with unprecedented mobility. And in the near future Amazon looks to capitalise in this area by incorporating drones into their delivery system.
AI and safety
Drones are a key player in safety, with leading companies extolling the simple virtues of being able to identify and evidence safety concerns without the frustration of implicit doubt. Take this example from the senior health and safety advisor from Vinci construction, a company with over 30,000 global projects and an outstanding commitment to transformation and change within the industry. Here they describe the benefit of using AI technology, in this case from Oculo, to improve site safety:
“A lot of time is spent on creating and organising photo documentation of the sites, and we can still spend a long time to dig out the right picture to prove a point. Oculo greatly simplifies this process, saves many hours of manual work each week, and makes it very easy to access and navigate within its virtual platform” –Senior H&S Advisor, VINCI Construction.
Of course, these improvements don’t only affect financial and time efficiency – they reduce the cost to human life. Construction can be dangerous and AI technology is a valuable player in identifying and assessing behaviour that may infringe the safety of a workforce. This kind of development is vital when considering R&D for architecture and construction.
Moving forward with AI and R&D
Results are what count in construction and architecture and solid improvements leave no doubt that AI is here to stay. The benefits for business, efficiency and safety are indefatigable and adopting AI is crucial for any construction company seeking to remain an industry leader.
All this technology costs money, however, and exploring the breadth of financial support available to R&D for architecture and construction is essential to help you achieve your goals. As industry experts, we are able to offer sound, succinct advice and help you move your business to the forefront of the industry.
If you would like to talk about whether your company is eligible for R&D Tax Credits, then get in touch with our friendly team today.
