Roles of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Enhancing Construction Processes and Sustainable Communities

Abstract

Machine Learning (ML), a subset of Artificial Intelligence (AI), is gaining popularity in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector. This systematic study aims to investigate the roles of AI and ML in improving construction processes and developing more sustainable communities. This study intends to determine the various roles played by AI and ML in the development of sustainable communities and construction practices via an in-depth assessment of the current literature. Furthermore, it intends to predict future research trends and practical applications of AI and ML in the built environment. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines, this study highlights the roles that AI and ML technologies play in building sustainable communities, both indoors and out. In the interior environment, they contribute to energy management by optimizing energy usage, finding inefficiencies, and recommending modifications to minimize consumption. This contributes to reducing the environmental effect of energy generation. Similarly, AI and ML technologies aid in addressing environmental challenges. They can monitor air quality, noise levels, and waste management systems to quickly discover and minimize pollution sources. Likewise, AI and ML applications in construction processes enhance planning, scheduling, and facility management.

Making a Case for the Adoption of Industry 4.0 Technologies for Sustainable Housing Delivery in Saudi Arabia

“…Zhang, Xu, Wu, Pan, and Luo [39] affirmed that automation technologies such as robotic process automation (RPA) and robotic construction equipment can automate repetitive tasks, increase productivity, and improve safety on construction sites. By reducing manual labor and enhancing precision, automation contributes to resource efficiency and cost-effectiveness in sustainable housing construction [19]. Craveiro, Duarte, Bartolo, and Bartolo [47] discovered that the rise in 4IR technologies made 3D printing feasible, which enables the rapid prototyping and fabrication of building components with minimal material wastage.…”

“…This section presents the benefits of integrating 4IR technologies for the KSA's construction industry. Previous studies [19][20][21] have identified that the benefits of 4IR technologies for the construction industry are multifaceted. Given their multifaceted nature, a comprehensive statistical approach such as principal component analysis (PCA) is necessary to comprehend the benefits of integrating 4IR technologies for housing delivery.…”

“…Recently the negative impact of the high cost of construction has been ameliorated through the application of Industry 4.0 (fourth industrial revolution) technologies, often called construction 4.0 when applied in the construction industry [12,18]. Industry 4.0 and construction 4.0 have attracted research attention globally; Kazeem et al [19] conducted research on the application of Industry 4.0 technology for the construction process in Hong Kong. Dallasega et al [20] and Osunsanmi et al [21] propose the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies for the construction supply chain in South Africa and the USA.…”

Smart Home AI Model (SHAM): Optimizing Switches and Sockets space in Residential Building during Planning/Construction through Multilayer Perceptron Estimation

“…Speci cally, within indoor environments, they play a vital role in energy management by optimizing energy usage, pinpointing ine ciencies, and suggesting enhancements to curtail consumption. This proactive approach not only aids in minimizing the environmental impact linked with energy generation but also promotes greater sustainability overall [2]. The construction industry faces a rising tide of disputes, marked by both a growing number and severity.…”

Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Sustainable Building Lifecycle; A Systematic Literature Review

“…2 opportunity to mitigate systemic inefficiencies and drive meaningful change [7] One of the most pressing issues facing the building industry is the staggering amount of waste generated during construction. Globally, an estimated 11-15% of materials are wasted on construction sites [8], highlighting the need for more efficient processes and resource utilization.…”