Masonry Visualizer

When designing with masonry, it can sometimes be difficult to visualize how the material fits into the broader vision of the façade. There are sizes, textures and colors unique to each masonry unit that influence the overall design concept and final material selection – but designers can’t install varying styles of masonry to see what works best.

That’s why 3D visualization tools are incredibly beneficial for designers to find inspiration and select the right masonry products for their project, allowing crews to work with the right products from the start. Utilizing 3D technology, this masonry visualizer allows users to view a complete product catalog, analyzing each shape, color and texture available. Then, units can be rendered at wall scale for a more lifelike visual of how the product works, including under realistic lighting conditions, bond patterns and a 2D representation. From there, units and panels can be downloaded directly into Revit or the Masonry iQ Build plugin for easy, efficient design.

With a clearer visual from the start, designers can work proficiently, keeping every aspect of a project on time and budget.

MULE Lift Assist + BIolift Exoskeleton 

Worker fatigue and injury are two of the most pressing challenges within the building and construction industry. Anyone acquainted with or working with masonry understands the physical demands of the work, as masonry units are heavy to lift, even for the most experienced teams. Masonry work is also time-consuming and requires repetitive motions and activity, and the industry has sought to improve productivity and reduce the physical risks associated with the work. Thanks to technology, there are tools available that aid with lifting heavy products and streamline jobsite operations.

Robotic tools like the MULE Lift Assist help masonry workers reduce manual labor while enhancing jobsite efficiency. The MULE Lift Assist can help masons lift up to 150 pounds, drastically reducing physical strain. With this kind of support on the jobsite, production increases, therefore producing cost savings.

Wearable technology is also making waves and helping address these challenges to improve worker safety and the construction experience.

Biolift is pioneering wearable exoskeleton technology that helps reduce physical demands from tasks like lifting, kneeling and bending. The Biolift exoskeleton offloads up to 60 pounds of pressure from a worker’s lower back, which helps minimize injury and fatigue and improve overall efficiency.

Continuing Education 

Jobsite technologies are invaluable to worker safety and efficiency, but it’s also crucial to keep up with the latest code requirements, product developments and more. Continuing education courses provide masons, building professionals and designers of all skill levels with the knowledge needed to stay up to date in the industry.

Attending continuing education provided by industry groups and associations, manufacturers and other key stakeholders provides teams with multiple perspectives on various topics in the industry, from building techniques to product selection to business development.

Implementing New Tools with Limited Time

Everyone associated with a build project, from the designers to the crews on the ground, has to move from one job to the next to remain within budget and timeline constraints. This can often make it difficult to try and work new technologies into current processes.

The best advice for teams trying to incorporate anything new into a tight building schedule is to utilize time during the off-season to become familiar with the tools and how they can improve existing processes. For designers, there may be more flexibility to implement tools and partake in CE courses, and it’s important to always work these into the schedule. Having access to technologies today that are enhancing worker safety and health and making the design process easier are well worth the investment.