Role of IoT & Big Data in Construction Industry

Abstract

Over the past decade, researchers have used IoT & Big data in the construction industry for various applications from site inspection to safety monitoring or building maintenance. This research paper aims to assort academic studies on IoT & big data applications, summarize logics behind using IoT & Big data in each application and extend understanding of current state of IoT & BD research in construction industry. This research follows a systematic literature assessment methodology to summarize the results over the last ten years and outline the research trends for applying IoT & BD in construction industry.
IoT & BD are used in Safety Management, Surveying & Mapping, Construction Logistic Management, Construction Project Monitoring, Structural Health Monitoring, Smart Building Application, Waste Management & many more. Time efficiency and improved accessibility are the primary reasons for choosing IoT & BD in construction. The case studies provided have used IoT in every way imaginable to assist them in safety management, surveying and mapping, construction logistic management, construction project monitoring, and structure health monitoring, but they lack effective big data application.
The challenges identified from literature were identified and results are as follows: The findings showed that the barriers related to “productivity reduction due to wearable sensors”, “the need for technical training”, and “the need for continuous monitoring” were the most significant, while “limitations on hardware and software and lack of standardization in efforts,” “the need for proper light for smooth functionality”, and “false alarms” were the least important barriers. The results obtained from this research not only offer new understanding for those in academia, but also offer practical guidance for stakeholders in the construction industry by identifying the main obstacles to the adoption of IoT and Building Information Modelling (BD) technologies.