Internet of Construction: Research Methods for Practical Relevance in Construction

The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)-funded research “Internet of Construction” (IoC) explores the digitalization and interconnection of construction processes throughout the value chain. It addresses the implementation of robotic processes and Industry 4.0 technologies within a broad consortium of industry partners. The consortium brings together suppliers of construction and robotic machinery with fabrication and construction contractors as well as architecture, mechanical engineering, and economics researchers. The IoC incorporates a living lab (Aachen West site), where new approaches are developed, tested, and evaluated in the context of real-world settings. While the project is ongoing, promising results in the enhancement of productivity in construction have already been demonstrated through the collaboration of industry and academic partners.