University lab to test autonomous roofing drones

Drones that can inspect and install roofs are one type of flying vehicle in the spotlight at the University of Michigan's M-Air.

By Joe Beeton • April 18, 2018

Exoskeletons and robots primed to take over dangerous construction site tasks

Sarcos says its robotic tools make non-repetitive tasks construction workers do every day easier and safer.

By Kim Slowey • April 18, 2018

Explore the Trendline➔

Construction Technology

As construction technology continues to evolve, here’s what savvy contractors need to know.

By Construction Dive staff

Cities are 3-D printing their way to more sustainable futures

The disruptive, fascinating technology could revolutionize the construction industry and make cities' infrastructure more resilient and affordable.

By Katie Pyzyk • April 11, 2018

China develops fire-resistant building material

The composite, which may be used to insulate existing structures, could provide a buffer against fire damage in reinforced concrete structures.

By Mary Tyler March • April 11, 2018

Volvo 3-D prints specialized spare parts for heavy equipment

The Swedish automotive manufacturer said the method will allow the parts to be created more quickly and efficiently, especially for legacy equipment. 

By Laurie Cowin • April 11, 2018

Netherlands' 3-D printed bridge gets installation date

MX3D used in-house software and four industrial robots to print the bridge over a six-month period.

By Mary Tyler March • April 11, 2018

These bricks could be a game-changer for insulation

Filled with aerogel, which also is used in NASA spacesuits, the walls isolate heat up to eight times better compared to a standard masonry wall.

By Laurie Cowin • April 11, 2018

Modular building is (slowly) moving onto jobsites

According to attendees at the 2018 World of Modular conference, prefabrication is one segment where the industry has a "massive opportunity to improve."

By Mary Tyler March • April 4, 2018

Material made from desert sand matches concrete's strength

The developers claim the material is nontoxic and can decompose naturally or be remolded and used in a later project.

By Laurie Cowin • April 4, 2018

BIM to aid in Eiffel Tower makeover

Not only will BIM help coordinate schedules and budgets, but its simulation abilities may help Paris better understand and prepare for potential threats.

By Laurie Cowin • April 4, 2018

Why construction companies should embrace technology

Technology can improve jobsite safety, attract millennials, efficiently manage projects and help firms stay ahead of competitors, writes Lauren Brookes.

By Lauren Brookes • April 4, 2018

Washington reveals 'smart' features of $2B Seattle tunnel

The features, including a 300-plus camera incident-detection system, aim to keep motorists safe and traffic flowing.

By Kim Slowey • March 29, 2018

Komatsu orders 1,000 drones to aid with robotic earth moving

While gaining popularity, drones are just one component of increasingly smart and connected jobsites.

By Laurie Cowin • March 28, 2018

Q&A: Fieldwire CEO discusses tech's value to the onsite worker

With the explosion of smartphones and associated technologies, Yves Frinault says construction laborers will realize productivity gains.

By Laurie Cowin • March 28, 2018

Thyssenkrupp opens high-tech, 31-story facility

The tower features two elevators, one which can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and another that uses the world's first ropeless elevator system.

By Mary Tyler March • March 28, 2018

Scientists develop method to print in 3-D with liquid

The material could be used to construct liquid electronics that power flexible, stretchable devices.

By Laurie Cowin • March 28, 2018

How technology is disrupting the construction industry

As one of the least digitized industries, construction companies see the potential for the adoption of new and innovative technologies. 

March 27, 2018

Wood nanocrystals in a California bridge could change how concrete is made

The nanocrystals are expected to strengthen concrete and decrease the need to use as much of the material.

By Mary Tyler March • March 21, 2018

PlanGrid doubles down on Dropbox partnership

The move aims to increase ease of collaboration and efficiency among project stakeholders through better-connected technology.

By Mary Tyler March • March 21, 2018

Penn State, United Nations partner to increase sustainable building worldwide

As part of the Global Building Network, the two intend to provide frameworks for and education about better building practices.  

By Laurie Cowin • March 21, 2018

Suffolk's Smart Lab helps clients visualize projects

The 3-D virtual environment lets clients "see" projects before they are built, and can measure project progress and maximize efficiencies among trade partners.

By Laurie Cowin • March 21, 2018

Building in 2018 with smart technology

With the cost of materials rising to their highest price in more than 5 years, construction companies are looking for news ways to adapt to changing times.   

March 21, 2018

Serious Labs debuts aerial virtual reality training simulator

The technology includes various scenarios for scissor and boom lifts and will provide feedback about the operator's performance.

By Laurie Cowin • March 14, 2018

Employers need a digital culture, not just digital tools, to compete

Results from a Microsoft survey indicate that, without the right cultural mindset, new tech tools may cause conflict rather than enable innovation.

By Valerie Bolden-Barrett • March 14, 2018

Treated wood's strength is comparable to carbon fiber

The wood, which is lighter yet stronger than steel, is the latest in a string of innovations seeking to enhance traditional building materials.

By Laurie Cowin • March 14, 2018