Technology has rapidly changed and improved numerous activities, including many performed in the construction industry. Painting is a good example. That was once a mostly manual activity, but many high-tech products and platforms can speed up the work and enhance quality control.
Supporting Workers
The construction industry faces an ongoing shortage of workers due to factors such as retirement and the time required to recruit and train new employees. Although affected parties must use various traditional and high-tech options to address the matter, some have explored whether cobots could target some of the most severe effects. Cobots work alongside humans, helping them do specific parts of their workflows more efficiently. One example is a 45-kilogram model with a 10-kilogram payload. This option also has the longest reach in its class, allowing it to access workpieces that may be too far away for humans to paint.
The cobot’s manufacturers have also made it easy to program the machine because people can do so with a tablet and drag-and-drop interface. It is also a suitable piece of equipment for construction sites and other locations where people must take specific precautions due to the presence of flammable materials. The cobot is explosion-proof, so it enables workforce safety while enhancing productivity.
Raising Efficiency
People have also used technology to reduce the manual processes associated with painting. Such gains are especially impactful on construction sites where many activities happen simultaneously. Airless sprayers are ideal for applying paint to woodwork or doors. Those well-accustomed to them can do jobs in half the time required by brush or roller methods. Additionally, since the paint is the only thing touching the surface, the finish is much smoother than those traditional options.
Virtual reality (VR) is another technology that has shaken up painting and other construction site jobs. It is particularly effective for enhancing training because learners can go through highly realistic modules that help them understand what to expect in their roles. VR is a good choice for teaching people painting skills because it prevents the material waste that occurs as they learn. Although students still need real-world practice, specialized simulations can help them grasp the basics so their overall output is more productive from the start.
One construction company uses VR to expose workers to potential site dangers. Although that method removes real-life risks, it reminds people of their vulnerability and raises awareness. This example shows how virtual reality-based paint modules could complement other job education efforts.
Streamlining Workflows
Construction leaders must juggle many timelines and budget-related particulars to meet client needs. Studying the various processes and figuring out how to save time with them while maintaining high-quality results could keep them on schedule and prevent wasted funds. These efforts could also make construction sites safer by eliminating situations where people have overly heavy workloads or feel too rushed during tasks, causing them to make mistakes.
Numerous companies have deployed advanced technologies across construction sites to keep workers safer through better visibility. Site managers who have already used other such upgrades may be more likely to try them for painting, too. That is especially true if the available options can handle numerous tasks.
Decision-makers in Singapore want to roll out a robot that can paint, sand and plaster. Such multitasking machines are appealing because they allow leaders to get bigger returns on their investments and feel excited about applying new tech in ways that connect with overarching goals.
Those overseeing construction sites also appreciate it when they can calculate how much specific equipment will likely enhance their workflows. The robot tapped for use in Singapore can paint a four-room apartment in approximately 90 minutes, which usually requires three workers to collaborate on the task for 70 minutes. Such results allow managers to redistribute their workforces, sending people to handle the duties robots cannot.
Enabling Progress
Technology has transformed how people paint, especially when handling industrial tasks in locations such as construction sites. These examples illustrate why there is much to anticipate regarding future applications and results.
