Imagine a construction site free of humans; homes being built instead by robots, capable of round-the-clock working
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Imagine a construction site free of humans; homes being built instead by robots, capable of round-the-clock working.
This is not science fiction but a reality that will be seen by 2050 according to a report from international construction firm Balfour Beatty. Although focused mainly on infrastructure projects, if the principles are adopted then homebuilding would surely follow.
Organizations including the National Association of Home Builders report that labor availability and cost are a key component to the restrictions in supply. This would not be an issue in the future.
Balfour’s report talks too of lower cost materials including the use of 3D and 4D printing, drones to monitor progress and machinery that is operated remotely.
While there would be a tipping point where the technology would not only plug gaps in the workforce but begin to replace it, the report highlights that there would be a change in construction roles which may attract younger people into the industry.
“These changes will mean we have to ensure our industry trains our current and future employees with the skills to exploit the use of new technology, new materials and new methods of working,” said Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive.
The future of construction is not just about workforce but also safety and the report predicts that by 2050 materials used with be able to respond to their surroundings.
“We are experiencing a digital revolution, redefining how we as an industry operate; becoming faster, better and more agile. By adopting and embracing the rise of digital solutions we are more able to deliver efficient, effective and safer solutions to our clients and customers,” added Quinn.
This is not science fiction but a reality that will be seen by 2050 according to a report from international construction firm Balfour Beatty. Although focused mainly on infrastructure projects, if the principles are adopted then homebuilding would surely follow.
Organizations including the National Association of Home Builders report that labor availability and cost are a key component to the restrictions in supply. This would not be an issue in the future.
Balfour’s report talks too of lower cost materials including the use of 3D and 4D printing, drones to monitor progress and machinery that is operated remotely.
While there would be a tipping point where the technology would not only plug gaps in the workforce but begin to replace it, the report highlights that there would be a change in construction roles which may attract younger people into the industry.
“These changes will mean we have to ensure our industry trains our current and future employees with the skills to exploit the use of new technology, new materials and new methods of working,” said Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive.
The future of construction is not just about workforce but also safety and the report predicts that by 2050 materials used with be able to respond to their surroundings.
“We are experiencing a digital revolution, redefining how we as an industry operate; becoming faster, better and more agile. By adopting and embracing the rise of digital solutions we are more able to deliver efficient, effective and safer solutions to our clients and customers,” added Quinn.
