In the world of construction and engineering, there lies a vast gap between funding and construction which is proving difficult for governments and companies to bridge on their own. The quest for constructing energy-efficient and sustainable buildings is proving to be more than what humans can handle alone. To address this challenge, many organizations are turning to the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in various forms, including large language models (LLMs) and machine learning (ML). While they may not completely solve all infrastructure issues, they are definitely making a difference by reducing costs, mitigating risks, and improving overall efficiency.
Overcoming resource constraints
The shortage of skilled engineering and construction labor is a significant challenge faced by many countries. Countries like the US, Germany, and Japan are already feeling the impact of this shortage, with estimates showing a considerable deficit in the supply of new talent in the engineering field by the next decade. Immigration restrictions, visa limitations, and lack of retention in STEM jobs only add to the constraints faced by the industry. However, AI can step in to alleviate these pressures by handling repetitive tasks and freeing up engineers’ time to focus on more critical aspects.
Julien Moutte, CTO of Bentley Systems, highlights the opportunity AI presents, stating that engineers spend a considerable amount of time on tedious and repetitive tasks that AI-powered tools can easily handle. By automating tasks like model compressions, engineers can redirect their efforts towards more valuable activities, ultimately increasing productivity.
Despite the potential of AI, challenges such as AI hallucinations and the need for validation persist. Engineers need to ensure that AI recommendations are safe and comply with the laws of physics, which can be time-consuming. However, by using existing company tools and products to validate designs, engineers can streamline the process and focus on more critical tasks.
Improving resource efficiency
The construction industry faces another challenge in the form of material wastage, with an estimated 30% of building materials ending up in landfills in countries like the US and UK. This wastage not only contributes to environmental concerns but also escalates the costs of raw materials. To counteract this trend, companies are exploring ways to enhance construction efficiency and sustainability through recycling measures and innovative solutions.