31 TECHNOLOGY AI in Construction What Does It Mean for Our Contractors? Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the construction industry by enhancing efficiency, safety and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. AI in construction involves the application of advanced technologies like machine learning, computer vision and data analytics to various construction processes.Through AI, machines can learn and imitate human cognitive functions. The importance of AI technology in construction should not be underestimated. It can help to complete projects on time, minimize staffing challenges, save money and address safety concerns. AI learns from the data provided to it. It can adjust project plans based on the information it receives, allowing decision-makers to alter those plans or change them to improve safety or minimize inefficiencies. AI can enhance productivity, reduce costs, improve safety and promote sustainable practices, making it a vital tool for the industry’s future growth and development. The possibilities may sound endless, but as an industry traditionally looking from the outside in at technology, we must first step back to educate ourselves on the basics. This resource is meant to act as a starting point in your journey to understand AI and its potential impact on the construction industry. By reading through definitions, construction use cases and considerations, the reader should walk away with a level of knowledge to ensure they can actively participate in future conversations on AI in construction. DEFINITIONS Artificial Intelligence: PerThe National Artificial Intelligence Initiative Act of 2020: “A machine-based system that can, for a given set of human-defined objectives, make predictions, recommendations or decisions influencing real or virtual environments.” Machine Learning: Application of AI that allows a system to automatically learn and improve from experience. In other words, machine learning helps computers do tasks like recognizing colors, finding pictures of cats on the internet or even suggesting what to watch onTV. It’s like teaching the computer to be smart and make decisions by looking at lots of examples and learning from them. One common example of this is the Large Language Model. Deep Learning: Per IBM: “Deep learning is a subset of machine learning, which is essentially a neural network with three or more layers.These neural networks attempt to simulate the behavior of the human brain — albeit far from matching its ability — allowing it to ‘learn’ from substantial amounts of data. While a neural network with a single layer can still make approximate predictions, additional hidden layers can help to optimize and refine for accuracy.” Deep learning has achieved remarkable success in various applications, including self-driving cars, medical diagnosis, recommendation systems and more. Its power lies in its ability to automatically learn and adapt to new data, making it a cutting-edge technology in the field of AI and data analysis.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==