From the simplest shelters to the tallest skyscrapers, construction has been a part of human society since the beginning. Along the way, new technologies have been adopted to make building faster, easier, more efficient, less expensive, and safer. So it was only a matter of time before Artificial Intelligence (AI) became a tool used by the construction industry. Like adopted technologies in the past, AI has improved outcomes, especially when it comes to safety. Using AI, alongside other modern technology like Lidar scanning, 3D models, and object detection, can help optimize work schedules, improve security, and reduce workplace accidents.
What is AI-Supported Object Detection?
Object detection is a critical advancement in the world of AI. It uses computer vision to detect specific visual objects in digital photos or video frames. In the construction industry, this involves equipping construction sites with digital cameras, sensors, and IoT devices. These are used by AI-supported systems that can “watch” the site 24/7. But, more than just recording events, AI can use object detection to monitor and detect unsafe behavior, warn workers and supervisors of potential collisions and other hazards, and help avoid trouble before it happens.
Enhancing Results with Lidar Scanning and 3D Models
The more data AI has to work with, the better the results. This is critical on construction sites where inches can mean the difference between efficient movement and disaster. Lidar (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) works by measuring the time it takes a light source to reach an object and return. Lidar can be used to create an accurate 3D model of a construction site. AI-supported object detection can then detect and track movement within the 3D space in real-time.
AI-Supported Object Detection: Safety, Savings, and More
Due to the many potential dangers on a construction site, much effort is spent by foremen and safety supervisors to keep workers safe and stay aligned with current safety regulations. AI-supported object detection, along with the other associated technologies, can augment the work of safety compliance. While, currently, these systems require human oversight, AI can work continuously and in all places at once, reducing the workload for supervisors and catching issues that might have been missed. Reports can be generated showing the most common problems, such as missing hardhats and safety harnesses, spills, and other safety issues. Management can use this information to provide better training and procedures to reduce these incidents instead of using most of their time to identify them.
The Future of AI in Construction
As computers, sensors, cameras, and software continue to improve, so do the possibilities for the construction industry. With machines continually monitoring every aspect of a construction site, algorithms will continue to improve safety outcomes. However, in the future, they will do more than that.
By analyzing a continuous stream of data, computers can look for ways to improve efficiency across the site. AI will offer insights into wasted effort and materials and discover ways to optimize the entire construction process. Machines will eventually tie together the materials supply chain, labor scheduling, subcontractors, and other aspects of construction, always looking for the most effective, efficient, and safe way to build.
