In this special five-part report, Building Design+Construction explores how Building Teams throughout the world are utilizing advanced robotics, 3D printers, drones, data-driven design, and breakthroughs in building information modeling to gain efficiencies and create better buildings.
Robots, drones, and printed buildings: The promise of automated construction
Building Teams across the globe are employing advanced robotics to simplify what is inherently a complex, messy process—construction. >>> Read the article
The Big Data revolution: How data-driven design is transforming project planning
There are literally hundreds of applications for deep analytics in planning and design projects, not to mention the many benefits for construction teams, building owners, and facility managers. We profile some early successful applications. >>> Read the article
5 tech trends transforming BIM/VDC
From energy modeling on the fly to prefabrication of building systems, these advancements are potential game changers for AEC firms that are serious about building information modeling. >>> Read the article
Crowdsourced Placemaking: How people will help shape architecture
The rise of mobile devices and social media, coupled with the use of advanced survey tools and interactive mapping apps, has created a powerful conduit through which Building Teams can capture real-time data on the public. For the first time, the masses can have a real say in how the built environment around them is formed—that is, if Building Teams are willing to listen. >>> More commentary from David Barista, BD+C's Editor-in-Chief
DOE, Autodesk team to overhaul the EnergyPlus simulation program
The update will allow a larger ecosystem of developers to contribute updates to the code in order to improve performance and decrease the time required to run energy model simulations. >>> Read the article
Related Stories
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 19, 2015
A robotic arm can 3D print, etch, solder, and carve from a desktop
It’s not just a 3D printer. The creators say Makerarm can also etch, solder, and put icing on cake.
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 19, 2015
New web tool from MIT organizes human movement in interactive graphs
Users can explore the mobile phone activities in London, New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong.
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 12, 2015
NIBS launches effort to develop BIM guideline for owners
Aim is to provide uniformity in the delivery of BIM projects.
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 11, 2015
VR for all: How AEC teams are benefiting from the commercialization of virtual reality tools
AEC teams are using gaming engines to not just showcase their projects, but to immerse their clients, end users, and Building Team members in highly detailed, fully lit environments that simulate the final structure.
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 9, 2015
Facebook’s data center complex has become economic engine for one North Carolina town
Cities are now vying for these facilities with sizable tax incentives.
BIM and Information Technology | Oct 7, 2015
Skanska and University of Washington offer new BIM program
The 11-week course is available for students and professionals and teaches BIM software skills, virtual design, and construction processes.
Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Oct 7, 2015
Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 – designed with the AEC industry in mind
Sasha Reed sits down with Microsoft’s Senior Director of Programs, Pete Kyriacou to discuss the unique challenges AEC professionals face and why the Surface Pro 3 was designed to help them be more productive.
Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Oct 1, 2015
How can owners make better decisions with the help of analytics?
Sasha Reed sits down with David Fano, Chief Technology Officer for WeWork (formerly with CASE), at BIMForum to discuss how owners make better decisions with the help of analytics.
Modular Building | Sep 23, 2015
SOM and DOE unveil 3D-printed, off-the-grid building
The Additive Manufacturing Integrated Energy (AMIE) building features a high-performance shell with a photovoltaic roof and built-in natural gas generator.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 16, 2015
Norman Foster proposes 'drone ports' as a way to ship goods across Africa
The structures would store cargo-shipping drones and serve as community centers.
