The implementation of AI in the construction sector in Malaysia, along with the number of construction personnel with the experience in handling AI-based software and application, is still low.
TO say that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm would be an understatement. Virtually every industry has embraced its potential, and the construction sector is no exception.
The cutting-edge technology, which has become a catchall term for applications that perform complex tasks that once required human input, is revolutionising Malaysia’s construction landscape, making it more competitive and efficient.
According to the Construction Industry Board (CIDB), AI is propelling the construction sector forward with newfound efficiencies, with the Global Artificial Intelligence in Construction market expected to experience significant expansion from 2023 to 2030.
In a recent statement, it said the Global AI in Construction Market, valued at US$519.63 million in 2021, is projected to surge to US$3,554.22 million by 2027, exhibiting a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 37.78 per cent.
Among its advantages, AI adoption grants construction firms improved visibility into their projects, faster and more accurate payments and heightened collaboration, ultimately boosting productivity.
As AI’s role in the construction industry continues to evolve especially in North America and Europe, its implementation in Malaysia’s construction sector and the number of construction personnel with the experience in handling AI-based software and application in this sector is still low.
Innovation has always been the driving force behind progress, and the building industry is no exception. With the rapid advancements in technology, artificial intelligence (AI) automation is revolutionizing the construction landscape and reshaping how buildings are created. From design to construction and maintenance, AI is transforming the building industry, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable.
AI and the Evolution of Design
One of the earliest stages of any construction project is the design phase. This process, traditionally, is labor-intensive, requiring the expertise of architects, engineers, and other professionals. However, AI is beginning to transform this process through a technology known as generative design.
Generative design uses AI algorithms to create optimized designs based on specific inputs. These inputs could include factors such as the building’s intended use, the local climate, relevant building codes, and much more. The AI system then generates numerous design options that meet these criteria. Not only does this speed up the design process, but it also opens up the potential for more innovative designs. For instance, AI could help create designs that maximize energy efficiency, thereby contributing to more sustainable construction practices.
Moreover, AI can also assist in the creation of digital twins, which are virtual replicas of physical buildings. These digital twins can be used to simulate how a building will perform under different conditions, helping architects and engineers to fine-tune their designs.
Enhancing Project Management Through AI
Project management is a complex part of construction, involving the coordination of various resources, schedules, and people. Delays in any part of a project can lead to significant cost overruns. This is where AI comes in handy, with its ability to provide predictive analytics.
AI systems can analyze data from past construction projects to predict potential issues that could arise in a new project. This could include predicting delays due to weather conditions, identifying potential cost overruns, or forecasting problems that could arise from the coordination of different teams. By anticipating these issues, project managers can take preventative measures, which can lead to significant cost savings.
AI also enhances project management through better resource allocation. AI can predict the optimal use of manpower and materials at different stages of the project, minimizing waste and improving efficiency.
AI and Safety: A Crucial Partnership
Safety is paramount in the construction industry. With the heavy machinery and high-risk activities involved, construction sites can be hazardous places. AI can play a significant role in improving safety on construction sites through the use of computer vision.
Computer vision is a subfield of AI that trains computers to interpret and understand the visual world. In the context of construction, computer vision can be used to monitor construction sites and identify potential safety hazards. For instance, these systems can detect if workers are not wearing the proper safety equipment or if they are in potentially dangerous situations. By identifying these risks in real-time, interventions can be made to prevent accidents, enhancing overall site safety.
The Future of AI in Construction: A Look Ahead
While the current applications of AI in construction are impressive, the future holds even greater promise. As AI technologies continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more integration into the construction industry.
One area where we might see significant growth is in the use of AI-powered robotics. Robots, guided by AI, could automate tasks that are currently manual, labor-intensive, and potentially hazardous. This could lead to increased efficiency, improved safety, and significant cost savings.
However, the integration of AI into the construction industry also presents challenges. The adoption of these technologies will require a workforce skilled in AI, necessitating significant upskilling and training for current workers.
