Construction 4.0 Technologies
Opportunities and Scalability for Aotearoa New Zealand’s Construction Industry By Dr. Troy Coyle, CEO, HERA Introduction The construction industry is undergoing a major transformation thanks to new digital technologies, a shift often called Construction 4.0. Inspired by the smart technologies that revolutionised manufacturing, these innovations are now changing how buildings and infrastructure are designed, built, and managed. This overview highlights some of the key technologies shaping this change and considers their potential for New Zealand’s construction sector. The emerging technologies research theme of HERA’s Ngākopa Construction 4.0 project, led by Prof Robert Amor from the University of Auckland, aims to identify the technologies that can support a transition to construction 4.0. Summary of key technologies in Construction 4.0 Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a way of creating detailed 3D digital models of buildings that everyone involved in a project can use. Instead of relying on flat blueprints, BIM lets architects, engineers, and builders work from the same interactive model, reducing mistakes and improving teamwork. It also helps plan costs, timelines, and even assists with managing buildings after construction. The Internet of Things (IoT) connects sensors, tools, vehicles, and even workers on a construction site, collecting real-time information about everything from weather conditions to equipment status. This data helps managers improve safety, avoid delays, and make better decisions by keeping track of what’s happening on site at all times. Augmented Reality (AR) allows project teams to view digital designs overlaid onto the real world using mobile devices or special glasses. This makes it easier to spot design problems early, estimate costs accurately, and manage quality directly on site. Knowledge-based systems use smart computer programs to analyse risks, project timelines, and safety issues, helping teams make better decisions by understanding complex data and uncertainties. Computer vision uses cameras and drones to watch construction sites, automatically spotting safety risks […]