EMCOR UK has introduced its new service, Insight Intelligence, which combines human expertise with cutting-edge technology. This service leverages advanced modelling, AI, and data science to extract actionable insights from customer operations, enabling a comprehensive view of their entire estate and unlocking the full potential of their facilities. The service
At 155 metres tall, One Eastside is set to become the highest building in Birmingham’s soaring skyline when it is completed in 2026. It will also be one of the healthiest and safest thanks to a new research partnership between Birmingham City University (BCU) and specialist residential developer Court Collaboration.
HID® Mobile Access® Offers Students and Staff the Ability to Use Their Smartphones to Gain Touchless Entry Into Buildings HID, the worldwide leader in trusted identity solutions, announces today that the University of Dundee is updating its city campus estate implementing HID® Mobile Access® and signature HID Signo™ readers throughout
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM
Underinsurance is a persistent problem that leaves property owners vulnerable to significant losses, often caused by something as simple as an outdated reinstatement value. To address the growing issue of underinsurance head-on, the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), which has more than 60 years’ experience in collating and analysing construction
Salto Systems, a global leader in smart access control solutions, proudly introduces its latest innovation – the Salto Glass XS Reader Series. This new product line sets a benchmark in access control technology, offering an unmatched blend of style, sophistication, and cutting-edge functionality. The Glass XS Reader Series is designed
Doka, one of the world’s leading experts in formwork and scaffolding, has been a reliable partner for years providing digital solutions for increasing efficiency and safety on construction sites. With the introduction of the new DokaXact Load & Pressure sensors, Doka now enables real-time monitoring of the pouring process. Choosing
The emergence of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in the twenty-first century has brought about a dramatic change in the way we engage with the digital world. These technologies invite us into an era where digital experiences are inextricably linked with the real world, freeing us from the
11 strategies are highlighted as crucial to reach up to 80% reduction in emissions, with integrated energy management playing a more substantial role than classic retrofits. The World Economic Forum has released a report proposing a £1.4 trillion global market opportunity through the decarbonization of buildings by 2030. The report
One of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, JELD-WEN has launched a new data pin solution that will promote greater fire safety compliance among customers. The new data pin, provided by Door Data Systems, will now be installed across every Certifire doorset by JELD-WEN, allowing for the Golden Thread of information
EMCOR UK has introduced its new service, Insight Intelligence, which combines human expertise with cutting-edge technology. This service leverages advanced modelling, AI, and data science to extract actionable insights from customer operations, enabling a comprehensive view of their entire estate and unlocking the full potential of their facilities. The service is powered by One Data World, EMCOR UK’s proprietary insight platform. This platform integrates diverse datasets into a unified system that delivers data and visualised reporting metrics across customers’ properties and services. By utilising a single data repository, Insight Intelligence goes beyond merely displaying historical data, employing state-of-the-art technologies such as interactive virtual modelling, diagnostics, digital twins, geolocation, IoT, remote services, AI, and intelligent modelling tools to support proactive decision-making and foster collaboration with customers. Insight Intelligence is built on four key components: Insight Intelligence is one of five key areas within EMCOR UK’s customer-centric services portfolio, alongside Carbon Transformation, Asset Dynamics, Facilities Management, and Workplace Evolution. The company also maintains a consistent focus on ESG and sustainability commitments, both for itself and its clients. James Dunnett, Chief Technology Officer of EMCOR UK, stated: “Many organisations face challenges in creating a single view of their facilities’ performance across their entire estate, which is crucial for ensuring efficiency, compliance, sustainability, and future readiness. Insight Intelligence addresses this need, offering customers rich data, advanced analytics, and our specialist expertise to fully unlock the potential of their facilities.” For more information on EMCOR UK’s Insight Intelligence service, visit www.emcoruk.com/our-services/insight-intelligence. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
At 155 metres tall, One Eastside is set to become the highest building in Birmingham’s soaring skyline when it is completed in 2026. It will also be one of the healthiest and safest thanks to a new research partnership between Birmingham City University (BCU) and specialist residential developer Court Collaboration. Digital construction and AI experts at BCU are creating a virtual 3D model of the skyscraper – known as a digital twin – so they can monitor, visualise, and predict air quality and energy consumption. “This partnership marks a significant and unique contribution to the digital transformation of the construction sector by creating a digital twin that will make such a tall building digitally driven, healthier, and safer,” said project co-lead Professor Huseyin Seker. “It’s a great example of how BCU is accelerating its research and expertise in digital transformation within the construction and built environment sectors by collaborating with national and international partners in academia and industry.” Project lead Saeed Talebi, Associate Professor in the College of Built Environment at BCU, said: “We are excited about the vision of making a real impact on the construction industry, the science behind the digital twin, and enhancing our student experience.” Digital twins are used by engineering and manufacturing companies to improve production efficiency, lower construction costs, and reduce water and energy waste. In this project, the digital twin will use artificial intelligence and machine learning technology to analyse data from sensors within the 51-storey property, which will consist of 667 one- and two-bedroomed apartments. Alex Neale, Chief Executive Officer of Court Collaboration, said: “It’s exciting to collaborate with BCU on this project. The combination of cutting-edge technology and engaging with some of our city’s brightest minds is fantastic, but to know that the work will deliver enhanced safety and efficiencies across both construction and the future life of the building is exceptional. “Thanks to the support of our funding partner, Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), One Eastside will deliver much needed high-quality build-to-rent accommodation in the city centre.” Sam Winnard, Head of Build-to-Rent Operations at PIC, added: “As long-term investors, we expect to be operating One Eastside for many years to come. “PIC are very supportive of the work BCU are undertaking to provide long-term tangible benefits to both operation efficiencies and the health and wellbeing of our residents, as well as offering an opportunity for talented students to apply their learning to a live asset.” Professor Maxine Lintern, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at BCU, said: “In an ever-increasing population, the only way for people to live in cities is often up. “To ensure we provide quality homes for people in the West Midlands and across the UK, we must continually advance the sector through technological advances. “BCU researchers are leading the way and we’re thrilled to partner with Court Collaboration, a company that mirrors our own values and aims.” Housing accounts for 15% of UK greenhouse gas emissions – and the government’s Future Homes Standard requires the housing sector to hit net zero by 2025/6. By providing a blueprint for safe, healthy, and environmentally friendly high-rise builds, BCU researchers will support the sector to optimise energy use and reduce carbon emissions. Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and Built Environment (CEBE), commented: “BCU is at the forefront of Internet of Things infrastructure and related concepts like the metaverse. Our researchers are helping to popularise digital twins to create better outcomes for society.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HID® Mobile Access® Offers Students and Staff the Ability to Use Their Smartphones to Gain Touchless Entry Into Buildings HID, the worldwide leader in trusted identity solutions, announces today that the University of Dundee is updating its city campus estate implementing HID® Mobile Access® and signature HID Signo™ readers throughout its buildings to guarantee it has a modern, secure and reliable access control system to allow staff and students to enter using both RFID cards and smartphones. The project will involve buying and installing new mobile-ready HID Signo readers at around 40 buildings – a staged rollout being completed over a two-year period by specialist security installer, Scottish Communications Group. In addition, the University has purchased 10,000 HID Mobile Access licenses to offer its academic community the option to use their Apple and Android smart phones for touchless entry into its facilities. “We wanted a modern system which is safe, secure and easy for everyone to use,” says Colin Stebbing, the University’s Head of Precinct Services. “Complying with forthcoming legislation was also another important project requirement. With bills like Martyn’s Law soon to be enacted, ensuring the University is ready for this was important given that we have a duty to protect to ensure everyone is safe. The HID solution enables us to not only lock down buildings immediately, but it has built-in functionality which we can leverage over time, meaning we’ve invested in ‘future proof’ equipment which will last us long term.” The University of Dundee is a public research university in Scotland renowned for its academic excellence in dentistry, medicine, science and engineering and life sciences. Based in the heart of the city, it is home to over 16,000 students, 3,300 staff and is ranked 33rd in the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024. A thriving institution with ambitious development plans, it is currently building a new £40 million facility called the Innovation Hub. This will offer commercial organizations flexible laboratory, meeting and office space and, over the next 10 years, it is anticipated the Hub will help create up to 280 new high-quality jobs. The new HID Signo readers integrate with the University’s existing AEOS access control software from Nedap. Supporting both native Bluetooth® and Near Field Communication (NFC) connectivity, they allow touchless smartphone entry and are fast to install as the wiring uses common protocols like OSDP [Open Supervised Device Protocol] and Wiegand. Furthermore, existing access cards already in circulation can be used with the new HID Signo readers thereby speeding up the rollout. Historically, the University used to print and issue plastic RFID cards so staff and students could access buildings. This process was laborious and time-consuming, especially during peak times like Freshers Week, when some 2,500 – 3,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students enroll. Issuing cards was logistically complex due to the high demand and the need for thorough identity checks, which could take up to 10 minutes per card. Shifting to HID Mobile Access – which utilizes cloud-based HID Origo management software integrating with the AEOS system – completely changes this and delivers wireless credentialling. This significantly simplifies all the licensing, allocation of credentials, setting of building access rights, validating or revoking of IDs – all of which is now done virtually and remotely. “Once registered by Student Services in AEOS, a student simply gets an email to their phone, they tap on a link, the app automatically uploads and a mobile credential is granted,” says Paul Brady, HID’s End User Business Manager for Physical Access Control Solutions. “Not only does this improve the overall student experience because it’s substantially quicker and more efficient, but it’s far more sustainable as you’re not issuing PVC cards anymore.” While the strategy and aspiration are for the university population to shift wholesale to mobile access, its approach today is to operate a dual system. “We recognize that some visitors and staff still want to use a physical pass and not all employees have a university issued mobile credential,” explains Stebbing. “HID Signo readers allow us to run both credential types in tandem, with HID Mobile Access giving us the option to scale up to include digital wallets from Apple and Google, as well as integrate with digital campus cards should we decide to go down this route in the future.” Given RFID cards are still required today, the University of Dundee utilizes its reliable FARGO DTC4500e printers to back up this transition to digital transformation. The FARGO range of ID card printers integrate easily with the AEOS software so that Student Services staff can easily issue physical IDs themselves. “HID Signo readers are going in now across the main buildings including the new Innovation Hub site,” says Stuart Leslie, Scottish Communications Group’s director. “HID’s reputation is built on reliability and security with its solutionssupporting the latest encryption, communications and authentication standards. Their devices have an open architecture so they’re easy to install and integrate which reduces the cost for the university and makes time to value that much quicker.” In addition, Scottish Communication Group is supplying Motorola MOTORTRBO Ion smart radios to the University’s security staff. The radios will be configured to run HID Mobile Access so they can open doors fitted with the new HID Signo readers. Because these smart radios also link to the University’s CCTV, alarm systems and CriticalArc Safezone® App, security staff need carry only a single device to fulfill their duties. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been a part of the construction industry since the 1970s, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that it gained significant traction. Since then, BIM has continuously evolved, enhancing efficiency, communication, and productivity across the industry. Now, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), BIM is set to undergo another transformative leap, bringing new capabilities that promise to revolutionise how we plan, design, and manage construction projects. Understanding Building Information Modelling (BIM) BIM is both a process and a digital platform that enables the planning, design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure projects. Through BIM software, stakeholders can visualise the entire lifecycle of a project before any physical work begins. This capability allows project managers to comprehend the complexities of a project fully, facilitating better scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. AI’s Impact on BIM: Enhancing Capabilities The integration of AI into BIM has introduced significant advancements in several key areas, including clash detection, energy simulation, quality control, cost estimation, and schedule optimisation. AI and Augmented Reality (AR): A Powerful Combination Augmented Reality (AR) has gained traction in the construction sector, and its integration with AI-enhanced BIM is proving to be a game-changer. AR allows stakeholders to visualise the final product in a more immersive way than traditional blueprints or digital models. For example, clients can virtually walk through a building before construction begins, offering a more tangible understanding of what the finished project will look like. This capability is not only impressive but also invaluable in securing client buy-in and satisfaction. Challenges to AI Adoption in BIM Despite its many benefits, the adoption of AI-enhanced BIM is not without challenges. The most significant barrier is cost, as implementing advanced AI technologies can be expensive. Additionally, while BIM offers numerous preset designs, these can sometimes be restrictive for those seeking highly customised solutions. However, as AI technology continues to evolve, these limitations are likely to diminish, making it an increasingly attractive option for the construction industry. Conclusion The integration of AI into BIM is set to redefine the construction industry, offering unprecedented levels of efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. While challenges remain, the potential benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making AI-enhanced BIM a critical tool for the future of construction. As this technology continues to develop, we can expect even greater advancements, paving the way for smarter, more sustainable building practices. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Underinsurance is a persistent problem that leaves property owners vulnerable to significant losses, often caused by something as simple as an outdated reinstatement value. To address the growing issue of underinsurance head-on, the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS), which has more than 60 years’ experience in collating and analysing construction costs, has partnered with risk management firm Intelligent AI to provide a service that produces reinstatement cost assessments at the touch of a button. The BCIS Intelligent Rebuild Cost Platform draws from multiple data sources to create rebuild cost reports for residential and commercial properties, including BCIS reinstatement data, planning applications and satellite imagery. Crucially the platform can report on everything from individual residential properties to multi-billion-pound commercial portfolios, enabling annual assessments where previously a rolling-check every three or four years might have been all that was possible. James Fiske, BCIS CEO, said: “We help property professionals to not only access high-quality data, but to understand the most appropriate data for them. Sadly it’s not uncommon to find unreliable sources of data being used to inform sometimes major business decisions. “This could be a property owner simply using market valuations for declared reinstatement values, or using inappropriate indices, like general inflation, to estimate movement in rebuild costs. In some larger organisations, there can be issues with data management where figures have been passed between teams, have come through an acquisition, or nobody is quite sure what the original source is. “The use of problematic data is of course not limited to reinstatement values, but the financial risk in this area could be the most significant one a property owner or portfolio manager has, if they are exposed to considerable loss through underinsurance. On the flip side, having a clearer view of the rebuild costs also helps to avoid overinsurance, and overpaying on a policy.” BCIS polled more than 200 professionals, predominantly from surveying and insurance roles, and asked what factors they thought contributed most to incorrect reinstatement valuations. More than one-third (36%) said a lack of regular re-evaluations, 24% said changes in construction costs, and 20% said inaccurate initial assessments. Fiske said: “We know policyholders want to be adequately covered, but annual site visits for a whole portfolio may be unfeasible. From portfolio managers using IRCP to perform an immediate risk assessment to surveyors using pre-populated assessments as a starting point, the intention is to improve efficiencies, save time, and reduce risk for everyone in the process.” Using reliable, verified data is crucial to reducing instances of underinsurance and is the driving principle at the heart of the platform. BCIS reinstatement data alone constitutes more than 1,100 dwelling models and 650 ancillary models, representing a wide range of supporting structures, components, and features. These models are built upon input costs derived from upwards of 12,500 regularly updated supply prices, as well as labour, plant, and specialist rates, in total producing more than four million rebuilding cost permutations. Estimates of the prevalence of underinsurance in residential and commercial policies vary, but with the onus on professionals to ensure they have done everything they can to minimise risk, it represents an area of huge concern. In the BCIS poll of professionals, the majority said they encounter underinsurance issues related to reinstatement valuations either frequently (29%) or occasionally (30%). Less than one-quarter (22%) said they rarely did, and just 13% said never. A recent survey commissioned by Aviva[1] found 73% of brokers are worried that some of their clients may be underinsured and they ranked underinsurance second on a list of market challenges they are concerned about. Intelligent AI CEO Anthony Peake said another key aim of the platform, which has been developed using groundbreaking AI tools, together with support from Lloyd’s Lab and leading insurers, is to provide the industry with the tools necessary to communicate the importance of reliable and regular assessments. He said: “We’re essentially trying to avert disaster. Whether that’s a residential property where a few hundred pounds difference in the premium could save the customer potentially missing out on hundreds of thousands of pounds in a payout, or a commercial portfolio where the declared value is upwards of a billion, it’s about safeguarding people’s homes and livelihoods should the worst happen. “In a recent test we did with an insurer, analysing a portfolio of 355 commercial properties, we found the reinstatement value to be £1.17bn underinsured. “In the poll, the top three barriers to customers updating their coverage to avoid underinsurance were cost considerations, lack of understanding and lack of awareness. Policyholders need to understand the potential consequences and what they can do about it.” Underinsurance is not a new issue, but it has been exacerbated in recent years by rampant inflation, which particularly impacted construction materials prices. Annual growth in the ABI/BCIS House Rebuilding Cost Index peaked at 19.4% at the end of 2022, representing a significant hike in the costs associated with rebuilding a property. The vast majority of professionals polled said rising construction costs have had either a significant (71%) or moderate (24%) impact on their customers or clients in the last two years. Cos Kamasho, BCIS Asset Data Manager, said: “Although inflation has cooled, and we’re not seeing those massive spikes now, there are still lots of external influences that can push up costs. “Annual growth in the BCIS Labour Cost Index, which tracks movement in trade wage agreements, for example, is at a 20-year high, and there are widely reported skills shortages in the industry. Changes to building regulations can also greatly impact rebuild values as properties have to be rebuilt to the current standard, not what was in place when the property was first built. “Inflation coming down doesn’t necessarily mean prices have come down. The cost of many materials in construction remain at historic highs, so using an up-to-date data source is vital.” To find out more about the BCIS Intelligent Rebuild Cost Platform please visit: https://bcis.co.uk/product/bcis-ircp/ For more information about BCIS, please visit: www.bcis.co.uk and for more information on
Salto Systems, a global leader in smart access control solutions, proudly introduces its latest innovation – the Salto Glass XS Reader Series. This new product line sets a benchmark in access control technology, offering an unmatched blend of style, sophistication, and cutting-edge functionality. The Glass XS Reader Series is designed to transform how we think about access control, seamlessly integrating security and aesthetics to create enriched and secure environments. Revolutionising Access Control The Glass XS Reader Series represents a significant leap forward in the field of smart access control. With its sleek design and advanced technology, it offers users and systems operators a superior access experience. The series is part of Salto’s renowned XS wall reader product portfolio, which is known for its innovative solutions that combine security with ease of use. The Glass XS Reader is more than just a piece of hardware; it’s a complete security solution designed for environments where real-time, online access control is essential. Whether it’s controlling access to barriers, lifts, sliding doors, or electronic gates, the Glass XS Reader ensures that security is both effective and stylish. Marc Handels, Chief Technology Innovation Officer and Co-Founder at Salto, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating: “We’re thrilled to introduce the Glass XS Reader Series, a product that embodies the future of access control technology. Its stunning design and advanced features provide users with a new level of control and security.” Unmatched Design and Durability One of the standout features of the Glass XS Reader Series is its minimalist and elegant design. At just 4mm thick, the extra-flat profile of the reader makes it a perfect fit for modern interiors, where aesthetics are as important as functionality. The reader’s front panel is made from high-quality, scratch-proof tempered glass, ensuring durability and longevity with minimal maintenance. Available in both black and white finishes, the design is customisable to suit different interior styles, making it ideal for flush mounting in indoor settings or universal junction boxes. The attention to detail in the Glass XS Reader’s design is matched by its technological prowess. The reader supports standardised RFID credentials and is equipped with NFC technology and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE), allowing users to utilise their smartphones as access cards. This feature not only enhances convenience but also aligns with the growing trend of mobile-first solutions in smart technology. Advanced Features for Enhanced Security The Glass XS Reader Series is packed with advanced features that make it a versatile and powerful tool for modern access control. Key features include: With the Glass XS Reader Series, Salto has redefined the access control experience. Users can simply hold their smartphone or credential close to the reader, and the door opens smoothly and securely. This intuitive interaction not only enhances the user experience but also ensures that access is granted only to authorised individuals. Elevating Spaces with Cutting-Edge Technology The launch of the Glass XS Reader Series underscores Salto’s commitment to innovation in access control technology. By combining elegant design with powerful features, Salto has created a product that not only enhances security but also adds a touch of sophistication to any space. As businesses and organisations continue to seek smarter, more efficient ways to manage access, the Glass XS Reader Series stands out as a premier choice, offering a seamless blend of style, security, and simplicity. Salto Systems invites you to experience the future of access control with the Glass XS Reader Series – where technology meets elegance, and security meets sophistication. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Doka, one of the world’s leading experts in formwork and scaffolding, has been a reliable partner for years providing digital solutions for increasing efficiency and safety on construction sites. With the introduction of the new DokaXact Load & Pressure sensors, Doka now enables real-time monitoring of the pouring process. Choosing the right concrete pouring speed depends on many external factors, such as the weather or the concrete mix. The real-time data from the new wireless DokaXact sensors ensure that concrete is poured as fast as possible while ensuring safety and the best possible concrete quality – even when using more climate friendly, CO2-reduced concrete mixes. DokaXact sensors are robust, waterproof, dustproof, and can be easily connected to the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth. “We aim to support our customers with digitalization in order to optimize construction projects. With data generation and real-time analysis, we are taking a further step towards smart formwork, ensuring greater efficiency and safety in concreting,” says Doka CEO Robert Hauser. Digital precision directly from the formwork DokaXact Load offers a solution for monitoring formwork loads. The sensors are designed for straightforward installation on standard tie systems, thus providing reliable data on tie loads for the first time. No special tools or major installation work are required. The DokaXact pressure sensor is designed for monitoring fresh concrete pressure. Installation is quick and easy, because it can be mounted directly on the plywood and requiring only a 26 mm hole. The data from both sensors is visualized in real time in the user-friendly DokaXact app directly on a smartphone. The intuitive user interface allows for simple and independent operation. The DokaXact web portal also provides detailed information and transparent documentation on the project. The new DokaXact sensors offer significant future applications, particularly for large-scale infrastructure projects such as tunnels. However, just as the reliable formwork systems from Doka are suitable for a wide range of concrete construction sites, so too are the DokaXact sensors. They can be used in the energy sector, in residential or commercial construction, and in projects with critical anchor loads or high, single-sided walls or pillars. As Hauser notes, “Wherever mission-critical data is required, projects can be optimized with DokaXact.” Achieving faster pouring times with DokaXact Thanks to data-based decisions, DokaXact sensors are already ensuring increased precision on the first construction sites in North America and Germany, as well as in other regions. For example, with the construction of sanitary sewer manholes in Mississauga, Ontario (Canada), where the use of DokaXact sensors reduced pouring time by five hours. “By monitoring the pressure with DokaXact, we were able to optimize the design and precisely control the load on the formwork, without having to produce expensive customized solutions,” says Michael Genz from Sales Doka USA. DokaXact will soon be launched in other countries and regions including the UK, Austria, Switzerland and Norway. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The emergence of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in the twenty-first century has brought about a dramatic change in the way we engage with the digital world. These technologies invite us into an era where digital experiences are inextricably linked with the real world, freeing us from the confines of traditional screens, much like how online slots have revolutionised the gaming industry. Although VR and AR are often discussed in the same sentence, they have different functions and offer unique experiences. This study sheds light on their influence and the new paths they are paving across a range of industries. Path to Prominence: Tracing the Evolution of VR and AR Rapid technological advancement and creative application are demonstrated by the rise of VR and AR from niche to mainstream. Virtual reality was initially dominated by the entertainment and gaming sectors, which captivated users with previously unthinkable environments. On the other hand, by overlaying digital data on the actual environment, augmented reality (AR) started to become a useful tool that improved daily tasks like shopping and intricate surgery. The way these technologies are developing suggests a time when they will be as much a part of our everyday lives as the smartphones we carry around in our pockets. The development of VR and AR has accelerated with the arrival of more potent and reasonably priced hardware. More people can now access these technologies thanks to improvements in graphics processing, motion tracking accuracy, and high-resolution displays. As a result, more VR and AR applications are being developed for a range of industries, such as gaming and entertainment, healthcare, and education. It is anticipated that this exponential growth will continue as more companies realise the potential of immersive technologies to revolutionise our way of living, working, and playing. Getting into Virtual and Augmented Reality VR uses headsets to create a 360-degree virtual world, submerging users in a fully digital environment. The experience is totally immersive whether these settings are imagined or mimic the real world. Conversely, augmented reality (AR) blurs the line between digital and physical worlds by fusing digital elements directly into our perception of reality. All it takes is a smartphone or tablet to achieve this. Our interactions with our surroundings can now be more meaningful thanks to the fusion of digital and physical perspectives. Distinguishing VR from AR While both aim to improve our digital experiences, VR and AR take different approaches to immersion. VR requires users to enter a digital domain, which isolates them from the physical world and provides a completely immersive experience. This makes it ideal for exploring distant worlds, improving education with realistic simulations, and training in secure virtual environments. AR, on the other hand, serves as a supplement to our current reality, superimposing digital elements on the world as we see it, which is critical for providing real-time information, assisting with directions, and enhancing educational materials with interactive elements. Beyond Games: The Real-World Impact of VR and AR VR and AR have a much wider impact than just entertainment. Virtual reality tours for real estate allow prospective buyers to see properties from afar. By performing surgeries in virtual reality, medical students can obtain invaluable experience without putting their lives in danger. AR changes retail by enabling consumers to view products in their own environments before making a purchase. AR helps architects by allowing them to project future projects onto existing environments, giving them a unique view of the possible results. These examples show how VR and AR are revolutionising industries by providing fresh approaches to age-old issues. The exploration into VR and AR uncovers a future where digital and physical realms merge seamlessly. The gaming and entertainment industries are changing, but this convergence is also radically transforming how we learn, make decisions and engage with our surroundings. The potential for VR and AR is increasing as technology develops, suggesting a time when our interactions with the digital world will become more natural and ingrained in our everyday lives.
11 strategies are highlighted as crucial to reach up to 80% reduction in emissions, with integrated energy management playing a more substantial role than classic retrofits. The World Economic Forum has released a report proposing a £1.4 trillion global market opportunity through the decarbonization of buildings by 2030. The report identifies 11 strategies to reduce building emissions by 80%, emphasizing the crucial role of advanced technologies, including integrated energy management. “It was only a matter of time until we see AI-driven platforms highlighted in the most influential reports. They enable real-time optimization of building energy systems, managing data from thousands of sensors to ensure peak efficiency,” said Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio, a leading company in the Baltics that focuses on AI-based building energy performance solutions. “This approach aligns perfectly with the WEF’s strategies, facilitating significant emission reductions and operational improvements.” The report identifies integrated energy management as a critical strategy for achieving a collective 80% reduction in emissions. For the first time, it was placed as more important than insulation or traditional renovations. Owners and investors are now encouraged to invest in digitalization to capture operational-cost savings, architects and engineers are urged to deploy energy management systems, and utilities and operators are advised to provide technology and services to generate new revenue streams and build synergy with renewable development. “As energy performance platform providers, we know that investing in digitalization and AI-based solutions is not just about cutting costs anymore; it’s about unlocking new revenue streams and creating long-term value,” Karčiauskas emphasized. “Achieving up to 20% in energy savings is a common practice for us, however, we also see increased user satisfaction in the buildings whose energy performance is controlled using AI solutions.” Alongside integrated energy management, key strategies highlighted in the report include upgrading heating and cooling systems, adopting sustainable building materials, green energy supply, decarbonization of traditional materials, and others. Exergio’s AI solutions are designed to address several issues raised in the report, providing real-time data analysis and actionable insights that lead to immediate and substantial energy savings of up to 20%. “The ability to continuously monitor and optimize building operations is what sets us apart,” Karčiauskas added. “AI tools adjust heating and cooling based on real-time occupancy and environmental data – some of the key factors important for non-residential buildings such as large offices and malls.” The report claims that the £1.4 trillion opportunity will arise from premiums, new market growth, and improved ESG performance. It also highlights China’s critical role, given its status as the world’s largest construction market, and showcases best practices from other emerging economies like the UAE Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the UK’s leading doorset manufacturers, JELD-WEN has launched a new data pin solution that will promote greater fire safety compliance among customers. The new data pin, provided by Door Data Systems, will now be installed across every Certifire doorset by JELD-WEN, allowing for the Golden Thread of information to be implemented at the earliest stage. Offering an advanced level of digital recording and data collection for fire doorsets in commercial and multi-occupancy buildings, the pins will enhance traceability and enable individuals in positions of responsibility to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to fire door compliance. Fitted in the hinge side of the door during the manufacturing process, the pin will provide immediate access to its certification, technical documentation, installation guides, warranties and inspection reports. These records are linked to a state-of-the-art system, whereby data is stored and available via a free-to-download app. To further enhance the user experience, data is presented in a clear and easy-to-read central dashboard, meaning no specialist training is required, while features such as scheduled reminders can support building management in future fire door maintenance. Glyn Hauser, R&D Senior Group Manager at JELD-WEN comments: “As one of the first manufacturers to introduce this advanced data pin system, we’re advocates for greater transparency throughout the supply chain, which we believe is needed to improve modern fire door practice. “Compliance is in the DNA of every JELD-WEN product, and launching the data pin is an important step in ensuring the Golden Thread can be implemented at the very first opportunity. We believe this capability will allow for better facility management of a building and, ultimately, a safer environment for the people within it.” As part of JELD-WEN’s commitment to providing customers with end-to-end support throughout the lifecycle of their doorsets, a number of easy-to-follow videos will ensure best practice is achieved during the installation stage of the Golden Thread process. For more information on JELD-WEN’s new data pin solution, visit https://www.jeld-wen.co.uk/door-data-pin Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
