Technology

The optimized distribution, usage and utilization of assets is at the core of any well-managed business. The construction industry is no different.

From people and time to machinery and materials, the smart application of censor technology—commonly referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT)—is already being integrated with existing business platforms.

However, by further adding business intelligence and artificial intelligence layers, ASGC can further streamline the procurement, distribution, tracking and utilization of assets, while creating new efficiencies as companies prepare more accurate maintenance cycles. It will also give project managers greater insight into their workforce, allowing them to assign more targeted employee training and safety protocol in line with UAE labor laws.

ASGC has developed the drone technology in-house and started its implementation for all the projects since 2016. It is being used for a vast array of tasks; from site surveys in the initial stages of a project to monitoring throughout the construction phase. The most advanced drones are fitted with radio frequency identification (RFID) which allows them to accurately track the location of pipes, plates and other metal products on site. Using a drone to take measurements and carry out surveys on these challenging projects is enabling ASGC to reduce the risk of accidents and save considerable time in development.

Future plans include integration of high definition CCTV and 360 degree video capturing technologies which will open up new opportunities in the monitoring and analytics of various aspects in the lifespan of an ongoing project and the planning of future business.

BIM is fast becoming the norm, rather than the exception, in UAE construction. BIM makes it easy to visualize, estimate, budget and plan a project from its conceptualization to implementation phase. It also helps different project teams to collaborate on a real-time basis, minimizing expensive reworks, significantly reducing project costs and improving efficiency.

Ultimately, BIM has the potential to be more than just a data tool by becoming an enabling platform for the integration of other technologies. These technologies help us today to bridge the gap between concept and reality.

BIM is comprised of a 3D Graphical Representation of the Structure + 4D Construction Schedule (sequencing, visual depiction, resets based on plan versus actual) + 5D Cost Data (for cost estimation on bids, purchasing, installing, operating, maintenance – cost is continually updated compared to plan).

For best pre-build preparation, we connect BIM to A/R (Augmented Reality) via IoT (Internet of Things) to have the detailed view before execution.

ASGC Group has also deployed 3D scanning technology; an addition to the construction industry that uses 3D laser scanning to create models of existing buildings for renovation or expansion projects. The scanner creates the blueprints of a detailed model that serves as a progressive overview on the project. ASGC premiered this technology and currently being deployed in conjunction with ASU at the Dubai Mall expansion project.

ASGC group has implemented 3D printing technology to validate the 3D models that are developed and to facilitate project visualization and construction sequence for project teams. ASGC has also utilized 3D printing to get prepare mock-up samples to facilitate certain approvals instead of waiting for the on-site mockup.

ASGC is striving for a wider usage of 3D Printing in its operations in line with the upcoming technological development that is currently foreseen.

Managing construction resources is a challenge, from equipment to spare machine parts and precast concrete structural elements, throughout its lifecycle. For its physical infrastructure, the Asset tracking makes use of a combination of Bluetooth radio frequency identification (RFID) and GPS tags for unpowered and powered equipment. It provides comprehensive asset-tracking functions across the group, certain features like raising alerts to ASGC’s project supervisors at the touch of a button in response to unauthorized movements.

The holistic nature of ASGC’s Asset Tracking, however, means its true value lies in the analysis and optimization of productivity and costs that it facilitates.

Overall ASGC’s, HPBS’s, & EBRM’s equipment is at our fingertips, and the result is greater efficiency across all our projects.

One of the biggest costs in Construction is labor. We have automated Labor Productivity by connecting automated project data to actual productivity via RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. The output data allows us to train staff more effectively, refocus laborers from one project to another and reduce labor where possible. The same technology ensures that our construction site is optimized for safety and allows us to mitigate risks posed to your workers.