“We are seeing examples in Australia and across the world which show there are many benefits of using digital technologies across the infrastructure sector, especially to boost productivity,” Dr Spear says.
Governments can do more to build capacity for digital technologies across the sector, the report finds.
“We’re recommending the Victorian Government pilot digital technologies on its infrastructure projects, use building information modelling on major projects, and promote greater use of digital technologies in projects through procurement. This will help give businesses the confidence to invest in the digital capabilities they need to grow.”
Robotics are currently used to undertake repetitive and low value tasks, but more advanced applications can use robotics for fully autonomous and more intricate tasks.
Using robotics for inspection and maintenance across the water sector, for example, can reduce water leaks by 10% and save more than $140 million in maintenance and repair costs every year.
Researchers from the University of Technology in Sydney, working in collaboration with Transport NSW, developed a robot that can inspect and clean bridge piles. The submersible pile inspection robots (or SPIR) have claw arms that allow them to grasp a pile, conduct surface cleaning using high-pressure water jets, and use cameras and sensors with advanced algorithms to work autonomously.
The robots collect high-definition images of the cleaned pile and produce a 3D map of the structure to inform a human-led condition assessment. They perform underwater tasks which are usually undertaken by divers who face a range of safety risks including low visibility, strong water currents and using high pressure water systems.
“Robotics have significant potential across a range of applications – from the factory to the hospital floor to construction and maintenance,” Dr Spear says.
Building information modelling, combined with advanced data analytics to create 3D digital models, can reduce public housing construction cost overruns by nearly 7%. Experience from Norway has found that construction of roads using building information modelling can save around 15%.
“Building information modelling can reduce how much it costs to design and build infrastructure,” Dr Speer adds. “When applied to billion-dollar projects, these savings are significant.”
Machine learning and AI can also deliver big savings. The technology can include deep learning which uses artificial neural networks, modelled on the human brain, for advanced capability, and natural language processing. When combined with imaging and sensor technologies, real-time information can be integrated, and options developed and evaluated to make faster and better design and construction decisions.
Applying machine learning and AI on all government infrastructure could deliver $374.6 million of benefits per year, the report finds.
“Machine learning and AI means large and complex data can be managed and analysed,” Dr Spear says.
“These technologies can be used across projects, from generating and assessing design and project management options, automating decision-making such as in procurement, and managing assets. This allows projects to be delivered faster, cheaper and with less risks.”
The report findings will inform a recommendation in Victoria’s updated 30-year infrastructure strategy, to be released for consultation early next year.