Civil Engineering Efficient Methods:

Substantiality in the world of construction has been a persistent need in the establishment of resoluteness in the global economy. Much of the world’s most pressing problems are resolved by a methodized approach to civil engineering, as it is a prime contributor in shaping communities and driving growth. Civil engineering which is the oldest form of engineering concerns the planning, designing, building, maintaining, operating, protecting and improving every type of infrastructural development taking place across the globe. With the progressive nature of the world, this particular type of engineering has witnessed profound change in its approach, much of which has greatly stimulated success. As it seems now, this long known engineering discipline has evolved for the better over the years.

Evolution of Civil Engineering

Civil engineering has been mapping and shaping human existence since humans sought shelter and abandoned their nomadic lifestyle.

(Source: Thomas Consulting)

The built environment encompasses the entirety of modern civilization. Starting from roads, bridges, railways to residential, commercial and industrial buildings, the approach in the construction of these infrastructures have conceivably undergone change. Much of this change is determined by the tools and techniques used in respect to what was used in the past.

In regards to the past when accessibility of a certain accommodation was more important than taking into account several other aspects alongside, in modern construction practices however, environment and visual appearance have become a crucial factor. In addition to this, detailed planning and substantial emphasis on research has entrenched modern construction processes.

The invention of futuristic technologies in the sector has largely advanced in solving some of the recent era’s most challenging problems like overpopulation, traffic, pollution, etc. Marking this nuisance of the contemporary world, civil engineering has evolved significantly.

Efficient methods in Civil Engineering

Deliberating on how progressive the world has become, traditional engineering methods have been replaced with more groundbreaking techniques and tools. Some of the most effective and efficient methods have been listed below which have undoubtedly shaped the world today.

1.Thermal Bridging

Thermal bridging is an effective insulation method that allows the movement of heat across an object (be it drywall, masonry, block or stud frame) with higher thermal conductivity than the materials surrounding it. Adding to the overall construction benefits, thermal bridging is a systematic heat loss and design refinement technique that enlarges available floor space, reduces the cost of building and carbon emissions.

2.Self-Healing Concrete

Weather is one of the most concerning factors when it comes to infrastructure building. Sudden, disastrous changes in nature is a gruesome phenomenon that has to be taken into account while planning. Cracking is one of the examples arising from severe weather conditions. Exposure to water, heat and chemicals introduces the cement to crack and reduces the durability of the development. In such a case, self healing concrete does wonders in repairing cracks autonomously. This technology germinates when water enters cracks to produce limestone plugging the crack before water and oxygen gets a chance to enter and corrode the steel reinforcement inside. In addition to this, it also mitigates the overall carbon dioxide emission due to cement production.

3.Kinetic Footfalls

Kinetic footfall is a sustainable energy source generating electricity without the consumption of natural resources. This highly advanced technology in civil engineering captures the energy from human footfall to generate electrical energy using flywheel energy storage and electromagnetic induction process. Kinetic footfalls are mainly laid out in heavily crowded areas as continuous pedestrian footfall leads to the generation of economical and sustainable energy. In addition to conserving natural resources, this efficient civil engineering technology requires very less operational area for electricity generation.

4.Kinetic Roads

Kinetic energy has enabled civil engineers to harness the ground of energy conservation and environmental sustainability. Utilizing the power of vibrating objects resulting from movement, yet another groundbreaking innovation in this sector of construction is kinetic roads. This cutting-edge technology enables kinetic energy produced by moving vehicles to be converted into electrical energy before passing it to the electricity grid. Alongside its functionality in efficiently conserving resources and improving road safety, the device upgrades and elevates sustainability of road traffic.

5.Modular Construction

This innovation in the civil engineering arena led to substantial changes in construction processes. Modular construction is an approach that allows buildings to be developed off-site utilizing the same materials and designing in accordance with similar standards as conventional on-site development.

Alongside many advantages, this process of infrastructure building limits damages resulting from environmental disruption, ensures timely manufacture and delivery of components without compromising quality and allows fewer vehicle movements.

6.Photovoltaic Glaze

Building integrated photovoltaic glazing (BIPV) is a system which allows a building to be self-sufficient in producing its own electricity. This is done as the entire development transforms into a solar panel. The transparent photovoltaic glass acts as a building material facilitating this process of energy conversion. Integrating the modern approach to architecture of open spaces, large windows, skylights and facade shelves, this system rightfully increases energy efficiency to meet the rising demands. Given its functionality, one might perceive it to be expensive, however, it is exactly the opposite. The costs are marginal over traditional glass as cladding and shading system costs are replaced.

7.Cloud Collaboration

Collaboration has defined success for every industry over the years. Through a collective approach to planning and solving problems, efficiency is refined. In the context of the construction industry, a pivotal part to mitigate discrepancies and establish consistency is for civil engineers and architects to stay aligned on the project’s progress and other important aspects. Basestone is a construction management application system that enables real-time communication and remote data sharing. This review tool assists to digitize the drawing review process on projects for engineers and architects.

Cloud collaboration which offers access to different features through the installation of various materials like steel beam, light fittings; mark and make notes saves costs of around 60% in comparison to traditional paper-based review methods.

8.Asset Mapping

Acknowledging the long, tiring process of construction, inefficiencies can be a common phenomenon. In many cases, projects exceed the allocated budget, engineers reactively conduct maintenance activities and cover two-thirds of their time validating equipment information. This along with other inexorable factors deter the overall progression of the project.

Asset Mapping is a scalable and efficient database reducing to a substantial amount the severity of discrepancy. It brings together data from numerous sources and ignites it into one single intuitive map. The real-time system focuses on operational equipment like lighting and security systems, heating and cooling, collecting information of installation (when and by whom) from engineering notes, firmware, etc. to combine them in one place. Engineers can easily access and monitor necessary data through web, app and other remote devices.

How Civil Engineering has shaped the modern world

The constant improvement in the quality services and facilities that is a staple for our living is reinforced by civil engineering. This part of the construction industry not only aids in shaping the urban society but also the rural one. Determining and maintaining the overall safety, development structure of communities and planning a world of success and opportunities, civil engineers have been the foundation for driving economic growth.


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