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AI Innovations to Automate Routine Construction Design Drawings

30 September 2024
Nitesh Panchal
Construction Design Drawings

Facing increasing challenges of rising costs and the shortages of skilled technical designers worldwide, major construction companies are exploring the possibilities artificial intelligence (AI) has to offer. For an industry built on a hands-on approach, AI integration can seem a tad ‘out there’, but experts believe generative AI (meaning AI employed in various construction sectors here), could be a game changer.

Currently, the use of AI in construction is sluggish, and many firms still require human intervention to forecast outcomes and costs. Additionally, it takes time, resources and skill to use construction document control software in early design stages. Yet the early design and planning stages are crucial to a project’s success.

So how can users best action generative AI for architectural design, AI for engineering design or AI-assisted automated structural design at the vital planning stages-to reduce overhead costs and ultimately boost financial outcomes?

How Generative AI Enhances Construction Design

Generative AI leverages algorithms that learn from historical data and past projects. For architects and engineers, this technology can optimise building designs, floor plans and construction drawings, improving the efficiency of early project stages. Moreover, AI can facilitate seamless information sharing across supply chains, allowing for rapid responses to necessary adjustments.

A key area where artificial intelligence in construction can drive innovation is with automation. Generative AI can automate repetitive, labour-intensive design tasks, freeing up human resources for more complex work.

By integrating AI with their workflows, companies can streamline architectural drafting, document processing and inventory management-boosting efficiency.

Big players in the construction industry are leveraging generative AI for tasks such as: design optimisation, project planning and risk assessment using AI.

Innovations in AI-enhanced Construction Tools

One example of AI innovation in the industry is Bluebeam. Bluebeam recently introduced AI-enhanced features designed to improve productivity and accuracy in design workflows.

  • Auto Align in Revu 21: This feature streamlines the process of aligning drawing revisions by automatically aligning key points on drawings. What previously took minutes can now be done in just 15 seconds, helping users identify differences between drawings up to 80% faster.
  • Automatic Title Block Recognition in Bluebeam Cloud: When importing drawings, this AI feature automatically extracts key information from the title block as metadata, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.
Bluebeam Labs: Co-creating AI Innovations with Customers

Bluebeam Labs, a collaborative workspace within Bluebeam Cloud, enables customers to co-create and refine AI-driven solutions. Through this approach, AI innovations are developed with a focus on practical, customer-centric applications that enhance productivity and user experience.

One standout innovation in terms of AI modelling software is 3D Drawings, which uses AI to position 2D drawings in 3D space, creating an intuitive visualisation that improves project understanding. Interestingly, this feature ‘folds’ drawings to create a high-quality 3D model, allowing for a deeper understanding of the project.

AI: A Game Changer for Construction Design

As demand for innovative construction methods accelerates, the integration of AI in construction management is becoming essential. Utilising artificial intelligence for design efficiency can involve optimisation of design, automation of routine tasks and enhancement of decision-making with document management tools, enabling the construction industry to deliver higher-quality work, faster, more sustainably and at lower costs. For companies looking to stay competitive, AI in construction drawing management is no longer a futuristic option-it’s a necessity for solving real-world challenges.

XS CAD has experience providing design support services using artificial intelligence in construction design for global construction design firms integrating AI in architectural design, AI in engineering design and AI-assisted automated structural design. Our range of services for contractors and consultants includes using generative AI technology, CAD drafting services, CAD modelling, 2D CAD drawings and interior design rendering. We create 3D visualisation, rendered images, 3D modelling and 3D walk-throughs by using Revit, 3ds Max, V-Ray, Adobe Photoshop and After Effects, Illustrator and BIM Collaboration Pro for cloud collaboration.

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