ity and 3D modeling tools that help stakeholders visualize designs as completed projects enable customers to commit with confidence from the get-go. This clear and early visualization can significantly reduce changes orders – and material waste – throughout the project. In addition to reducing change orders, technology also helps provide greater visibility into project details during the entire project lifecycle. When a constructible model is shared and accessible in real-time, all stakeholders can coordinate more closely. This improves communica- tion, saves time and vastly reduces the potential for error, which has its own waste reducing benefits. The transparency that is gained by enabling shared access to data among multiple stakeholders also saves materials and shortens construction timelines. These savings can be seen in various stages of both building and civil construction projects. When it comes to concrete pouring, for example, a constructible model includes information such as areas, volumes, concrete mix, cost codes, detailed rebar, embeds and formwork, lead- ing to more accurate pours and eliminating wasted material. During site prep, augmented reality on excavators give operators the ability to view 3D models in a real-world environment at a true-life scale, right inside the cab in the context of their existing surroundings. These machine control systems are improving the accuracy and effi- ciency of heavy earthmoving equipment, thereby enabling job comple- tion in less time, and using less fuel. 3D scanning technology in the field is also reducing waste throughout a project’s lifecycle. Field layout is an essential task in which accuracy
is a necessity and errors can lead to rework and delays that can come at significant economic and environmental costs. Using advanced 3D scanning technology provides more precise data, and exporting the ex- act point data from a constructible model to a total station can eliminate errors and dramatically increase productivity in the layout process. Prefabrication is also contributing to more sustainable models by enabling companies to build components in a controlled environ- ment with all necessary tools and equipment readily on hand, which increases speed and predictability. In addition, the concept of “nesting” allows companies to get the most out of raw materials by optimizing material cuts for maximum output. With intelligent data fueling fabrication, prefabrication, and lean con- struction, companies can generate more accurate material estimates that reduce waste, improve productivity, and increase profitability across the project. Connected construction is the greatest defense against the inefficiencies that stem from data locked up in silos. Breaking down communication barriers and encouraging collaboration and data sharing across project teams is critical for reducing waste and wasted effort. A constructible approach helps streamline construction throughout all phases of a proj- ect, eliminating waste and leading to greater sustainability, which will benefit businesses and the environment for years to come.
ERIC HARRIS is Director of Strategic Communications at Trimble.
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April 2021
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