New government fund looks for AI and digital design projects

The Industrial Strategy Challenge fund has allocated £18M for AI and digital design in construction.

The UK government is looking at new technology and digital design for the future of construction projects. The funding comes from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and is looking to find projects that will modernise the industry.

Through UKRI, £13.3M has already been awarded to 24 projects. These include a project with the University of Cambridge which uses AI to predict and schedule construction and a new piling technology developed by Keltbray Group enhancing capacity and sustainability when laying foundations.

The aim of the projects chosen will be to revolutionise how technology is used within construction: from creating simulations to support the design and management of buildings, to creating power generation and storage within buildings. It is hoped these will streamline projects and cut costs.

UKRI Chief Executive Sir Mark Walport said: “Technologies being developed in the UK provide a significant opportunity to transform the way we build, such as the use of augmented reality to improve design or robotics to aid complex building assembly.”

“Through projects such as these, the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund allows us to catalyse innovation across the UK’s construction industry, improving productivity, sustainability and safety.”

The Government is hoping the projects chosen will allow the UK to become a world leader in construction. They promise it will help them deliver their Construction Sector Deal, which seeks to partner government and industry to improve the industry.

The use of technologies like artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and simulations are being more commonly adopted in the industry worldwide. These innovations can cut costs and improve safety and environmental responsibility.

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