b'BIM modelling is far from new. Today,For example, says Manquenahuel, Ifinvested in an automated SAW design however, the BIM modelling process iswere re-piping a mechanical room, [AR]system for cutting its plastic and copper being upgraded with artificial intelligence,will let the client see what thats going topipes, as well as a six-axis robotic plasma drone data-capturing advances andlook like, or maybe where a valve handle iscutter and multiple cobot welding laser scanning tools. For example, saysgoing to be in real time. So, instead of justmachines. These investments have been Manquenahuel, We use a robotic scannerexplaining where the work is occurring oniterative, Revel adds, and come as athat sits on top of a tripod and takespaper, this is a tangible way of showingresult of a top-down goal to push aheada combination of laser measurementeveryone exactly whats happening. in the companys industrialized combined with full HDR [high dynamicconstruction mission.range] photos, which are then tiedAdvancements in automation and together by our software to create a 3Drobotics are also defining the industrysArtificial intelligence is also becoming representation of a room or whatever it istechnological transformation. Along itsa catalyst for change in the mechanical youre scanning. journey, Pitt Meadows Plumbing hascontracting world. Today, autonomous Advanced 3D modelling is not only a stepping stone towards more effective designs and project planning. As Revel suggests, it is also a catalyst for advanced prefabrication. A lot of mechanical contractors are already doing prefabricationfor example, setting up their apprentice in a shop to make shower diverters, he says. The next step is adding more complex prefabrication, such as manufacturing parts for piping systems or more complex cabinets for mechanical rooms. And again, to get to that point, you really need to have that 3D modelling piece first.Innovation in Steps3D modelling and advanced prefabrication are foundational steps to more tech-enabled operations. With these pillars in place, companies are in a better position to implement otherinnovative tools.One such tool is augmented reality (AR). This is the ability to overlay virtual information (e.g., 3D models, real-time data, videos, etc.) in the real world through a smartphones camera or jobsite wearables outfitted with an AR lens (e.g., Google Glasses). Through these hybrid experiences, project team members can visualize virtual project elements in their real-world environment, while contractors can let clients preview the workin progress. NATIONAL BULLETIN | Issue 1, 2024 23'