Latest Innovations in Printing Technology: Top 5 Uses of Large Format Printers in the Construction Sector

The construction sector has long lagged behind in adopting new technology. But technological innovations are now completely reshaping how projects are conceived, planned, and executed in the AEC industry. 26% of construction businesses in the Philippines are already digital-first, with 56% being "well on the way” in their digital transformation journey. Cutting-edge solutions like computer-aided design (CAD), prefabrication, and building information management (BIM) are becoming the standard tools for construction projects. As a result, large format printers have emerged as indispensable tools to improve the efficiency of construction worksites.

Large format printers offer unparalleled capabilities for rendering intricate architectural designs and enhancing project visualisations through 3D models. They also have a vital role in construction site communication, making detailed plans and safety guidelines easily available to improve safety and maintain compliance on job sites. Here, we'll explore the role of large format printers in construction. Then we'll underline five ways in which the latest innovations in printing technology can supply efficiency, collaboration, and success in the AEC industry.

To stay competitive and innovative, Philippine AEC firms are strongly encouraged to adopt new technologies like BIM, AI, and cloud-based platforms. These tools enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes through better collaboration, accurate planning, and risk management. With the construction industry forecasted to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.2% during the period 2023-2027, leveraging technology becomes important to meet rising demands and address challenges like material costs and safety. Embracing digital transformation will boost domestic and global competitiveness, aligning with the ASEAN Economic Community's vision of being a digital hub.

Adopting BIM, prefabrication, and digital project management tools can boost productivity, cut costs, and enhance project quality in the Philippine construction industry. Despite expanding 8.5% yearly, the sector's low productivity stems from limited tech adoption. With the right innovation, the Philippines can tackle the housing deficit, improve infrastructure, and support local government goals. Technological advancements also enhance safety, promote sustainability, and position firms better globally. Aiming for a ₱13 trillion economic contribution by 2030, fostering innovation becomes crucial for the industry's growth and economic progress.

Construction projects typically are carried out over long periods of time. Their timelines are subject to weather delays, supply chain issues, and scope changes. When issues arise, plans affecting the final project can change. Large format printers can print schematics, blueprints, large posters, and other essential documents in full colour. When you have a large format printer on-site, you can print the newest version of plans in-house. This convenience eliminates the delays caused by sending printing projects to a third party.

The latest innovations in printing technology also make large format printers a vital part of AEC communications. Construction projects include many working parts and multiple teams to carry out the required tasks. Plan changes and information silos can lead to misunderstandings that lead to costly errors. Modern printers have connectivity features that enable employees and stakeholders to connect data and workflows to create a single source of truth. When plan updates can be implemented in real time, errors and misunderstandings are reduced.

Printers have changed drastically from those in the past to increase portability, improve communications, and work with other modern technologies to streamline workflows. A variety of innovations make them attainable and necessary for modern construction firms.

• Increasing Sustainability: Modern large format printers are built for sustainability with recyclable materials, smaller bodies, and improved functions to reduce waste. Energy-saving features help them achieve optimal performance while reducing energy use.
• Connectivity: Connectivity features allow you to print and share from anywhere, taking the guesswork out of communications and reducing miscommunication.
• Security: Remote communications are essential in any modern workplace, and built-in security features, like the HP Wolf Pro Security, contain threats to help companies avoid data leaks and security concerns.

Large format printers are critical to accuracy, efficiency, and convenience in the construction sector. Here are the top five ways the latest innovations in printing technology are making the use of large format printers in the construction sector indispensable.

Accuracy is critical in the construction industry, and large format printers can print blueprints, schematics, and other intricate designs precisely. Plan sets must have the accuracy to prove you can comply with building regulations and satisfy the requirements of the build. Large format printers produce highly accurate plans that maintain the project scale's integrity.

To meet the modern demands of the construction industry, firms must streamline project timelines and incorporate sustainability into the building process and structure lifespan. Large format printers enable AEC professionals to create various images to better visualise the building process and the finished structure of any construction project.

Durable printers that can print on multiple substrates with long-lasting colours enable construction professionals to use prints for a variety of purposes that will last for long periods, even when exposed to the harsh environment of the job site. Your large format printer can be used to print banners describing the future of the building site and for safety signs to alert the crew and visitors to potential dangers while construction is in progress.

Change orders are common during construction projects. If they're not documented properly, miscommunications can lead to errors. Having a large format printer on-site enables teams to immediately print new plans to provide a single source of truth.

A large format printer designed for architectural prints can do double duty as a marketing tool. You have the best understanding of your business and can print out banners, posters, and other large format marketing materials that will resonate with your customers.

As innovative construction equipment evolves and changes, large format printers will hold a critical place in the list of the latest innovations in printing technology. Based on current technology and innovations in construction, these are some of the predictions for the future of large format printing in construction.

• AI and Machine Learning: When used effectively, artificial intelligence (AI) automates tasks and improves transparency. The increased use of predictive analytics and machine learning can help companies understand future outcomes. You can look at past data to inform design decisions and print more intricate plans.
• Truly Connected Construction: As data, workflows, and technology become more connected, dispersed teams will be able to depend on a single source of truth. Also, printed plans can be continually updated.
• Robotic Construction Layout Printing: Construction crews can use layout robots to print digital layouts onto the floor, reducing layout and labour costs with autonomous technology. With increased accuracy and up to 10x productivity gains, crews can achieve more with fewer resources.

As the latest innovations in printing technology unfold, large format printers are emerging as an indispensable tool for efficiency and accuracy in the building process. Contact HP today to learn more about our various large format plotters and printers for the construction industry or to get help finding the printer to suit your AEC printing needs.