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Robots are increasingly being used in the construction industry to perform repetitive and demanding tasks. These robots are designed to improve efficiency and safety on construction sites. Specific construction tasks, such as drywall spraying and finishing, layout printing, materials transportation, and capturing site imagery, can now be automated using purpose-built robots. Contractors are adopting these robots to address labor shortages and increase productivity. The use of robots in construction is expected to continue growing as more applications are developed. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the field of forensic engineering and the contributions of Wiss Janney Elstner Associates (WJE) in advancing engineering knowledge through problem-solving and investigations. WJE, founded in 1972, has played a significant role in informing the design and construction of various projects through decades of research and testing. The firm's laboratory facilities in Illinois, Cleveland, and Texas offer a wide range of services, including structural testing, materials evaluation, and code compliance testing. The article highlights WJE's involvement in major investigations, such as the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks in Kansas City and the 1996 investigation of the crash of TWA Flight 800. Additionally, it mentions WJE's work in assessing existing conditions and providing recommendations for preservation, such as the investigation of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. The article emphasizes WJE's commitment to sharing knowledge and contributing to the prevention of structural failures. [Extracted from the article]

The article lists the top 25 newsmakers, recognized for their contributions to decarbonization and overcoming structural challenges including Sean Beatty, Manager at Turner Construction, Joe Benvenuto, Chief Operating Officer at LIFTbuild, and Robert Buckley, President of Buckley & Co.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools is revolutionizing the design and construction industry. Major firms are utilizing AI for tasks such as generating new designs, design review, accounting, and legal compliance. AI is able to complete tasks in a fraction of the time it would take humans, leading to a reevaluation of resource allocation and project delivery practices. AI is also being used in the field to provide instant answers and predict problems. Companies like Populous, VIATechnik, Procore, and Autodesk are embracing AI to improve efficiency and automate repetitive tasks, with Populous using data and AI technology to enhance the design process for stadiums and other construction projects. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of the challenges and solutions in the construction industry, as well as the importance of collaboration and investment in the next generation of workers. It features insights from various leaders in the industry, emphasizing the need for honesty about the demands of the field and the significance of mutual investment between managers and employees. The article also discusses the selection process for ENR's 2024 National Top 20 Under 40 class and highlights the importance of work-life balance and flexibility in the industry. Additionally, it addresses the need for workforce development and changing perceptions of construction as a viable career path. The article also touches on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance productivity, although it acknowledges the limitations of automation. The construction industry is also adapting to the energy transition, with a focus on electric vehicles and renewable energy projects. Despite labor shortages and rising costs, the industry offers opportunities for innovation and the recruitment of diverse talent. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the Best of the Best 2023 projects recognized by ENR (Engineering News-Record), which represent the highest achievements in U.S. design and construction. The projects include the Microsoft Thermal Energy Center, which features a geothermal heating and cooling system, and the Geowell drilling project, which used drone flights for assessment. Other projects highlighted include the Kings Bay Dry Dock Recapitalization project, the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) project, the Orlando International Airport Terminal C, the Orange County Museum of Art, the 1021 O Street State Office Building, the UVA Inn at Darden - The Forum Hotel, the Mayo Clinic East Expansion, the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies and Barry Mills Hall at Bowdoin College, the Riverbend Meats Processing Plant, the Aston Martin Residences in Miami, the Primary Children's Hospital Hybrid Operating Room, the Martin Marietta Texas Quarry project, and the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. These projects showcase unique features, sustainability efforts, and overcoming challenges. [Extracted from the article]

The U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v Raimondo has overturned the Chevron case precedent, which directed courts to defer to federal agency expertise in regulation-setting when legislative language was unclear. This ruling has significant implications for government agencies' ability to develop and enforce mandates, with potential impacts on environmental, health, workforce, and other standards. While the decision may enable challenges to perceived regulatory overreach, it also introduces uncertainty and instability into the regulatory arena. The ruling has already led to test cases in lower courts, and there are ongoing discussions about potential legislative revisions to address the consequences of the decision. [Extracted from the article]

Join, a project information and collaboration platform, has introduced Insights, an executive-level dashboard for general contractors to monitor project health during the pre-construction phase. This tool aims to provide a data-rich view into projects, helping users assess budget adherence and anticipate potential issues. Join's CEO highlights the increasing demand for transparency and collaboration among stakeholders in the construction industry. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk announced at its annual user conference in San Diego a deepening partnership with Esri, focusing on artificial intelligence workflows and data sharing. The company outlined a future where granular data from Autodesk applications like Revit and AutoCAD will flow onto cloud platforms like Autodesk Docs and Forma, as well as from partner companies like Esri. CEO Andrew Anagnost highlighted the development of Forma as a conceptual design tool that integrates natural language prompts and sustainability analysis, aiming to merge with geospatial data and expand into digital-twin analysis roles. Anagnost reassured users that Revit will not move entirely to the cloud but will allow granular data, such as geometric data, to flow to other platforms like Forma and Docs, addressing a long-standing user request for direct access to design geometry. [Extracted from the article]

Oracle has filed a lawsuit against Procore, alleging that a former Oracle employee took trade secrets to Procore, allowing the latter to integrate popular ERP software systems into its construction payment management platform. The lawsuit claims that the employee took thousands of files, including source code and customer information, from Oracle to Procore. Oracle is seeking unspecified damages from Procore and has named the former employee as a defendant in the matter. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the increasing popularity of Matterport's reality capture tool among contractors working on large construction projects. The tool allows for 3D visualization of construction sites and integrates with platforms like Procore and Autodesk. Design firm Corgan has successfully used Matterport on airport projects to scan existing conditions, verify models, and develop punch lists efficiently. The technology's fast capture capability has significantly reduced scanning time and improved project management processes. [Extracted from the article]

Canvas, a construction robotics company, has unveiled its smaller form factor 1200CX drywall robot. The CEO, Kevin Albert, stated that the company aims to revolutionize interior construction with this new technology. The 1200CX robot is more compact and suitable for multifamily projects, addressing the feedback received from customers. The robot's ability to provide a level-four finish and perform sanding tasks was demonstrated at an event in San Francisco. The adoption of construction robotics is influenced by the desire for consistent quality and the reduction of labor strains. [Extracted from the article]

Residents of Imperial Beach, California have filed a lawsuit against Veolia Water, the engineering consultant responsible for managing the South Bay International Wastewater Treatment Plant, accusing the company of not doing enough to prevent toxic sludge flows that have caused beach closures in the area for over 1,000 days. The lawsuit claims that Veolia has caused or failed to prevent over 500 illegal discharge incidents, resulting in over one billion gallons of raw sewage being dumped into the river that flows into South San Diego. While the current action is only against Veolia Water, the lawsuit may be amended to include the International Boundary and Water Commission at a later date. Veolia acknowledges the seriousness of the transboundary pollution issue caused by population growth in Tijuana, Mexico, and hopes that the repairs and expansion of the wastewater treatment plant will bring relief to the affected communities. The repairs are estimated to take at least five years to complete according to the commission's timeline. [Extracted from the article]

Superior Masonry Unlimited, a specialty contractor, has modernized its accounting systems by implementing cloud-based Sage Intacct and Stampli, an artificial intelligence accounts payable processor. The company's CFO, Matt Andersen, wanted to unite the estimating and preconstruction departments with project management, and automate the accounts payable process to reduce the burden of paper invoices. Stampli's AI technology has significantly reduced the time and effort required for accounts payable, matching invoices to purchase orders. Superior Masonry Unlimited plans to continue connecting more systems and integrating its preconstruction processes into Procore, its construction management platform. [Extracted from the article]

Bentley Systems has acquired Cesium, a platform for creating 3D geospatial applications. Cesium's 3D Tiles standard has been adopted by Google Earth, allowing for the creation of photorealistic 3D scenes from user data. The acquisition will bring a geospatial platform and its data to Bentley's iTwin ecosystem, aligning with their open approach to data. This acquisition reflects the trend of integrating BIM and GIS data and addresses the challenge of restructuring large data sets for easier use across applications. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk, a construction software company, has released its strong Q2 results, surpassing analysts' expectations. The company reported earnings of $2.15 per share, compared to $1.91 per share the previous year. Despite a delay in Q1 results due to accounting issues, which led to calls for a leadership change by activist investor Starboard Value, Autodesk's total revenue increased by 12% to $1.51 billion. The company attributes its success to customer demand for innovative solutions and its new transaction model that allows customers to purchase directly from the company's website or authorized partners. [Extracted from the article]

Ediphi, a new platform created by Dustin DeVan, aims to modernize preconstruction estimating in the construction industry by moving it to the cloud. Currently, the majority of estimators still use manual spreadsheets or on-premise software. Ediphi provides a proprietary set of estimation capabilities, integrating data sheets and unit mixes, and allows estimators to create assemblies for different scales of projects. The platform also brings transparency and allows users to track the steps and learn how estimates were derived. Several construction companies, including Hensel Phelps and DPR Construction, have participated in pilot programs to test Ediphi's capabilities. [Extracted from the article]

Esri and Autodesk have announced plans to improve data interoperability between their respective geographic information systems (GIS) maps and CAD and building information models (BIM) used by Autodesk's AEC customers. This partnership aims to allow elements of Autodesk's authoring tools to be used in Esri's products, marking the first time this has been possible. The companies are working on specific workflows to deliver value to transportation engineers, architects, and construction professionals. The integration of GIS data into projects is seen as crucial for the industry's digital transformation and will provide a better design and planning experience. [Extracted from the article]

Nicholas Cumins has become the CEO of Bentley Systems, a design and engineering software company based in Exton, Pennsylvania. This marks the first time someone outside of the Bentley family has led the company since its establishment in 1984. Greg Bentley, who has been chairman and CEO since 1995, will now serve as executive chairman of the board. Cumins, who has been with Bentley Systems since 2020, aims to maintain the company's engineering ethos and engage with users as peers and partners. This leadership transition is the largest change for Bentley Systems since it went public in 2020. [Extracted from the article]

Ground Penetrating Radar Systems has released a mobile app called SiteMap, which combines GIS and BIM project data in one workflow. The app is being used by field personnel at a $389 million hospital expansion in northern Illinois. The app allows users to access project data, including drawings and other construction information, in the field. It also helps with locating old utility lines and updating location information as work is completed. The app has become a planning tool for the project, allowing the contractor to overlay drawings with location information to make informed decisions. [Extracted from the article]

Architect-engineer Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and energy-storage technology firm Energy Vault have formed a partnership to further develop gravity-based energy storage. Energy Vault's current demonstration projects in Italy and China use heavy composite blocks to store potential energy, which is then converted into kinetic energy when the blocks are rapidly lowered. The new systems being developed with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill will involve the rapid transfer of water to turn turbines for finer control. The partnership aims to integrate gravity energy storage systems into tall buildings and natural slopes, with the potential to achieve carbon payback within three to four years. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the ongoing merger dispute between U.S. Steel and Cleveland-Cliffs, with Japan's Nippon Steel Corporation proposing to acquire U.S. Steel. The $14.1 billion acquisition deal is still awaiting regulatory approval. The article explores the potential impact of the acquisition on the construction industry, particularly in terms of steel prices and supply. The Associated General Contractors of America believes the effects are uncertain, while the Associated Builders and Contractors of America support the deal. The article also mentions the significance of U.S. Steel's modern plant, Big River Steel, and the potential benefits of Nippon Steel's expertise in electrical steel. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk, a software company based in San Rafael, California, has acquired Datum360, a data-sharing platform, in order to enhance data connections across its authoring tools and construction project management tools. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Additionally, Autodesk has opened up its AEC Data Model API on its Autodesk Docs platform, allowing for more accessible and granular data sharing. This move aims to provide customers with a single source to search for accurate information. [Extracted from the article]

B2W, a cloud platform for heavy civil contractors, has been integrated into Trimble's cloud-based software suite, Trimble Connect, and its single sign-on service, Trimble Construction One. The platform helps contractors with tasks such as employee hours tracking, bid verification, and maintenance notifications. B2W has also introduced a mobile app that allows field employees to upload information directly to the platform. The integration has been beneficial for companies like Schlouch Inc. and Kubricky Construction, saving time and improving efficiency. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk Inc., a software company, conducted an internal audit that revealed a discrepancy in its books due to its practice of signing customers up for multiyear, discounted software licenses instead of annual, full-price subscriptions. This resulted in lower income and a shortfall in free cash flow. The company's chief financial officer, Deborah Clifford, will transition to chief strategy officer, and Elizabeth Rafael has been appointed interim CFO. The audit committee recommends changes to how Autodesk files multiyear subscriptions. [Extracted from the article]

Lendlease, an Australian developer and contractor, has announced that it will sell its U.K. and U.S. projects and assets in order to refocus its operations and real estate investment in its native market. The company plans to "recycle" $2.9 billion into the Australian market while exiting international construction. Consigli Building Group Inc. has already acquired Lendlease's New York and New Jersey construction operations, including employees and ongoing projects. Lendlease's decision to sell its international assets is aimed at delivering value to its shareholders, capital partners, and customers, and redirecting its construction and development focus to Australia. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk has introduced an AI-powered 3D object generator called Project Bernini, which can create 3D models from 2D images. Buildots, a construction management tech firm, has added a Delay Forecast feature to its project management platform, which uses AI to predict schedule risks and alert project teams to potential delays. NVIDIA's Isaac robotics platform is collaborating with Alphabet's Intrinsic to enhance the capabilities of autonomous robotic manipulation. These advancements in technology aim to improve project management, design, and construction processes in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Contractor Brasfield & Gorrie is utilizing drone flight data to update its site maps and prevent utility strikes and other incidents. The company has been using drones for mapping and construction progress photos since 2017 and has expanded its fleet to 38 drones with over 60 FAA-certified pilots. By integrating drone data into their Esri ArcGIS mapping platform, Brasfield & Gorrie is able to track and manage sites, update maps with drone scan data, and decrease utility strikes during construction. The firm also uses ArcGIS Online to make the data accessible on mobile devices, allowing workers to locate themselves and access subsurface conditions. The integration of various technologies into one platform has proven valuable for the company, as it allows for better collaboration and project management. [Extracted from the article]

Document Crunch, a company co-founded by a construction attorney, is using artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with reviewing construction contracts. The company's AI can process construction documents and identify areas of potential legal concern. Document Crunch recently secured $9 million in funding and has added a chat feature for users to ask questions about specific projects. Contractors like Balfour Beatty have found value in using Document Crunch to help project managers identify important contract details. Additionally, ELECTRI International is using Document Crunch to educate its members on interpreting contracts and promoting fair contract language in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Turner Construction Co. and Boston Sand & Gravel have become the first to use Sublime Systems' zero-carbon cement in a building project in the greater Boston area. The specific location has not been disclosed due to client confidentiality. Sublime's cement is produced using electrochemical processes and renewable electricity, eliminating the need for traditional carbon-intensive methods. This innovative approach allows for the adoption of new products and reduces the environmental impact of cement production. [Extracted from the article]

Sage, an accounting technology platform provider, has announced the launch of an artificial intelligence-based tool called CoPilot. CoPilot is designed to assist customers with tasks related to payments and compliance. The tool will use Amazon Bedrock and Amazon Lex technologies and will initially focus on accounting and compliance applications. Sage has also introduced a construction suite of products that combines the capabilities of Sage Intacct Construction, Sage Construction Management, and Bid-Matrix software. The suite allows contractors to easily move their data in and out of the products. CoPilot is set to be released later this year and will be able to generate emails, dashboards, and reports, as well as automate accounting tasks on construction projects. [Extracted from the article]

Autodesk has released Informed Design, a pair of add-ons for its building information modeling and product design software tools. The add-ons aim to automate the process of product design and placement of mechanical assemblies and other complex products into 3D building and infrastructure models. Informed Design connects Autodesk's building design and manufacturing workflows, allowing designers to specify products and assemblies created in Inventor, the company's manufacturing authoring tool. The add-on also enables building product design engineers to automate the creation of models for building products such as mechanical equipment or assemblies. The workflow uses Autodesk's Construction Cloud collaboration platform as a go-between for Inventor and Revit. [Extracted from the article]

McCarthy Building Cos. has chosen to standardize its subcontractor payments on the Oracle Textura Payment Management system. The company made this decision due to Textura's ability to handle large volumes of payments and manage lien waivers and compliance. McCarthy's previous system relied on paper checks and Excel, which proved to be time-consuming. While some subcontractors have expressed concerns about the switch, the majority have found the new system to be beneficial. This move towards cloud-based construction payments reflects a broader trend among prime contractors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. [Extracted from the article]

The Lower Sioux Indian Community in Minnesota is building the first hempcrete production facility in the United States. The community plans to use hempcrete, a construction material made of lime, hemp, and water, to build homes for its members. Hempcrete has been used as a building material abroad for decades but was not permitted in the US until the 2018 farm bill legalized industrial hemp production. Hempcrete is lightweight, self-insulating, nontoxic, and resistant to mold, fire, and infestation. It also has the potential to absorb CO₂ during its growth phase. Efforts are underway to get hempcrete approved for use in commercial construction. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the transformation of the former Phoenix Ironworks Steel Factory site in West Oakland, California, into affordable housing. It is reported that a collaborative effort involving Autodesk, Kreysler & Associates, Factory_OS, and MBH Architects, the Phoenix project aims to create 316 units using prefabrication and alternative materials, including fiber-reinforced composite polymer (FRP) facade panels with a mycelium interior.

The article reports that engine manufacturer Cummins Inc. has agreed to a billion dollar settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice for allegedly unlawfully altering hundreds of thousands of pickup truck engines to bypass emissions tests, violating the Clean Air Act.