Capitalizing on the Benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Technology in Construction
CAPITALIZING ON THE BENEFITS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) AND TECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION
CG Schmidt takes every opportunity to integrate AI and technology to optimize investment and increase quality and value throughout your project’s lifecycle.
Along with integrity, excellence and caring, a pillar of CG Schmidt’s core values is “no surprises.” Growing in popularity and debate, CG Schmidt utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and technology to visualize multi-trade work, optimize building performance and data analysis, improve quality and eliminate unwanted surprises during construction.
AI in Virtual Design and Construction
Virtual design and construction (VDC) utilizes AI at various stages of construction to correct potential errors before they happen. Laser scanning is a verifying tool to ensure quality and safety and enhance collaboration with suppliers and subcontractors, allowing for the preview of facility elements and workplans not yet completed. When laser scanning indicates a flaw , the project team corrects and redirects before construction begins, saving time and eliminating the potential for costly mistakes.
“Laser scanning acts as a visual check that project information aligns and fits with what is expected,” said Cierra Griffin, CG Schmidt VDC Engineer.
Our VDC team uses the Trimble X7 Laser Scanner, the industry’s first smart–calibration system, which gives visual confirmation of individual points to be measured using Trimble Perspective. Each gray bubble in this image represents a point where the scan was taken during MEP improvements onsite at the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.
VDC is also used to identify safety violations on simulated job sites in CG Schmidt’s safety training programs. Project teams review designs and plan accordingly prior to engaging on the site as the project progresses.
These virtual designs illustrate actual 3D models of healthcare jobsites and highlight improper safety protocols around ladder safety and lack of fall protection and toe boards.
AI in Building Information Modeling
Predictive analytic tools like Microsoft Power BI can inform which subcontractors are qualified for certain projects. AI generates and organizes data in seconds, suggesting ideal partnerships based on cost, capability and capacity.
After assembling a project team, CG Schmidt engages technology to create building information modeling (BIM). Using Matterport, an AI program that creates viewing models, the program stitches several photos of the jobsite together to create a three-dimensional, 360° viewing model. These models allow project planners, owners and field coordinators to visualize complex site logistics — especially useful in enhancing safety and ongoing operations in occupied spaces. BIM models simplify and visualize construction requirements, facilitating better understanding and communication between trade partners and project stakeholders.
This laser scan of a healthcare jobsite is overlaid with a coordinated model, showing space and dimension more comprehensively than a two-dimensional blueprint.
Drones in Construction
In an industry where safety is a top priority, drones excel in tasks that hold significant risk factors, such as examining jobsites and surrounding areas high above the ground. CG Schmidt uses the Skydio 2+ drone, which tracks, navigates and avoids obstacles using AI.
“I think drones are going to be the way of the future. They perform difficult and unsafe tasks very easily, such as inspections in hard-to-reach or unsafe areas,” Griffin said.
Not only is using a drone the safer option, but it also captures high-resolution imagery and videography with ease. Drone documentation and imaging hold huge value for clients who garner community interest and investment in their project, as well as for owners looking to promote, share or lease their new facility.
CRISTO REY JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL MILWAUKEE
High-resolution drone footage provided an aerial view of the new Cristo Rey Jesuit High School Milwaukee and documented progress from start to finish. Drone technology is a valuable asset to schools and districts working to engage the community, gain support for capital campaigns or pass referendums. For example, a district interested in parking lot renovations may benefit from drone footage that illustrates challenges with current traffic patterns and highlights possible solutions.
BREAKWATER 233 APARTMENTS
Onsite the Breakwater 233 Apartments project, digital twins created with drone technology prepare the field team for a tension deck concrete pour. This AI function provides a replica, or twin, of the construction site, with the ability to simulate multiple situations and outcomes to aid stakeholder engagement, communication, documentation and future infrastructure.
AI integrates and revolutionizes various aspects of the construction process, from preconstruction to project close-out and beyond. In subcontractor selection, error prevention, building systems optimization and project documentation, AI plays a pivotal role in enhancing project planning, safety and quality assurance. As a construction management leader, CG Schmidt continues to push the boundaries of AI and technology integration to streamline operations and deliver clients the highest value and most successful project outcomes the industry has to offer.
Contact us to learn more about how AI and technology can support your next construction project.
