According to the 2021 data released by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction sector records the highest number of fatal work injuries. Apart from that, operational efficiency is often the leading concern across the sector and is directly associated with budget overruns, flawed performance management, flawed risk management, and lack of adequate planning, etc.

Now that technological interventions like Computer Vision are becoming more visible as the technology matures, it’s only justified that we understand how they help the sector with speed, efficiency, and safety. In this article, we’ll explore the viability of computer vision in the sector.

Computer Vision – A Primer

Computer vision (CV) is a branch of artificial intelligence and computer science that enables machines to analyze, process, and understand visual data from the real world. It aims to create algorithms and models that can interpret images and video data, recognize objects, track motion, and estimate depth and distance. Research projects the computer vision market to reach $41.11 billion by 2030, growing at a healthy CAGR of 16% during the forecast period.

Advantages of Implementing Computer Vision in Construction

Safety

Computer vision can be used to monitor construction sites in real-time, detecting potential hazards and identifying unsafe behavior by workers. For example, KamerAI (a real-time CV-based automation platform) helps businesses ensure employee safety and compliance through hard hat detection.

Quality Control & Management

CV can be used to identify defects in building materials or structures, ensuring that quality standards are met. In addition, computer vision can also be used to:

• Monitor construction progress
• Identify delays or issues on site
• Optimize workflows to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget

Planning and Design

Computer vision technology can further help architects and designers to create 3D models of buildings, simulate different design scenarios, and visualize how a project will look once it is completed.

Asset Management

Further, computer vision can be employed to monitor and maintain building assets, such as HVAC systems or electrical equipment — identifying potential issues before they become major problems.

Challenges of Implementing Computer Vision in Construction

Data Quality and Availability

Computer vision algorithms require large amounts of accurate and reliable data to function properly. This can be difficult to achieve in construction settings, where data may be incomplete, fragmented, and difficult to access.

Budget Constraints

Often, developing an in-house CV solution can entail substantial costs, not to mention the excessive training of the employees and continual improvements needed – something that can prove exceptionally challenging for construction companies.

Integration with Existing Systems

It can also prove challenging to integrate computer vision technology with existing systems, such as project management software or equipment control systems. 

Best Practices for Successful Implementation

Identify Business Goals and Use Cases

Successful implementation of computer vision in construction requires the identification of areas and use cases where the technology can have the greatest impact.

Access High-Quality Data

It’s imperative to have access to high-quality data, something that entails partnering with experts who can guide the implementation of the solution. More profoundly, they can help in:

• Building a data pipeline that can handle large amounts of data
• Ensuring data quality and consistency
• Narrowing down on the proper processing and usage of data

Monitor and Evaluate Performance

To monitor and evaluate the performance of computer vision in construction, construction companies can track metrics pertaining to safety incidents, quality control, design efficiency, project management efficiency, and asset management efficiency.

Collaborate with Technology Experts

Collaboration with technology experts can help construction companies leverage the latest computer vision technologies and stay up-to-date on industry trends. Experts can help identify the most relevant use cases for computer vision and implement the technology effectively.

The Future of Computer Vision in Construction

Advancements in AI, Robotics, and Machine Learning

With AI being used to improve virtually every aspect of construction, from data collection to monitoring equipment, and robotics being used for everything from surveying to demolition, computer vision is a technology that will be central to the future of construction. As AI and ML continue to mature, computer vision will become even more powerful. 

Increased Adoption and Awareness

As more companies recognize the benefits of computer vision and invest in its implementation, the technology will become more widespread and sophisticated. This will enable construction companies to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity, leading to significant cost savings and a competitive advantage in the industry.

Impact on Workforce and Skills

The intelligent workforce is part of a broader trend in the industry to adopt high-skill, technologically-advanced jobs, and computer vision is a new area that supports this movement. CV will make it possible for employees to do their jobs faster and more efficiently while also reducing the need for human intervention. 

How Can a Computer Vision Platform Help?

By using a CV platform like KamerAI, construction companies can achieve a range of benefits, such as improved safety, increased productivity, enhanced quality control, and better project management. By virtue of being a platform, it enables the powerful CV technology to tie into crucial business systems to amplify the impact and effectiveness. The platform can provide real-time data analysis, automate repetitive tasks, and facilitate better communication among team members. 

Most importantly, a platform approach to computer vision can help companies transition from post-mortem analysis and allow companies to take proactive action when it comes to safety, speed, and efficiency. Get in touch with us to learn more about how our computer vision platform can contribute to the success of your construction project.