February 09, 2022

Trends in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry 2022

Trends in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry 2022

Trends in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry 2022
Trends in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry 2022


The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Industry is evolving with digital technologies, which is shaping the future of the industry. Over several years AEC industry is stabilized and developed with the help of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Internet of Things (IoT), which streamlines the operational processes and workflows. 2022 holds significant changes in the industry.

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Digital Twins

With the help of advanced internet technologies, VDC and digital twins help to monitor, control, and optimize work remotely in real-time. VDC differs from BIM by managing the project. BIM is a shared resource of the project. Whereas VDC, in addition to having access to the shared document, can predict the performance of the project in comparison to the measured performance. It helps to assess the achieved objectives and reduces work duration and manpower.

Digital Twin is a fully-automated data transfer of the performance of the system in real-time. The digital twin transfers 3D model, digital rendering, and animation or simulation of the AEC plans. In short, it is an automated digital representation of the physical data, process, or system facilitated through IoT connectivity. It helps the stakeholders to visualize a project even before it is built. And real-time capture of the status of the building helps the team to monitor the performance and progress.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI is used in engineering applications and software for generative design, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), and material selection.

Generative design, an iterative process, is what an engineer uses to design the size and strength, or measure constraints. They would ask the AI to create some options based on them. Also, AI selects materials and code compliance of traffic, pedestrian walks, residential buildings, and other constructions.

RPA allows system to automate the administrative processes and tasks like verifying the orders, managing the bills of the ordered bills, etc.,

There is also a huge advantage of AI being integrated into VDC and digital twins for easy processes and management. There is research going on to integrate them.

Sustainable Buildings

The world is at the high point that everyone should consider sustainable living to protect the environment and subsiding the potential dangers. Some of the changes that are practiced are reducing carbon footprint and trying alternate to fuels.

AEC Industry is not an exception. The industry is searching for ways to build sustainable buildings and constructions, that have less effect on the environment, either short-term or long-term. Some of the solutions are green rooftops and green alleys, which use recycled materials for permeable concrete – a system to absorb storm water. 

Another concrete material is called bio concrete, which has bacteria mixed into it. This is a self-healing component when the concrete cracks, aiding in the maintenance of the constructions.

Usage of the internet, advancement of technology, and enhancing sustainability are inevitable to any industry. The AEC industry has high scope to improve in these areas in 2022.