6 LATEST TRENDS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING YOU SHOULD KNOW

The trends in civil engineering are again the focal point as we as we swiftly approach towards another decade. The
civil engineering industry, like any other, is no stranger to evolving challenges, and is undergoing a radical
transformation from the outset of 2018. The shortage of labor, escalating cost of materials and commodities, along
with the mounting pressure to focus on the design aspect of the construction projects are propelling the construction
industry in an entirely new dimension. With the doors to innovation and technology swung wide open, there seems
to be a silver lining for the construction business owners in confronting many persistent challenges.

Every small and mid-sized contractor is set to gain from the emerging construction technologies such as mixed
reality (MR) and UAV data analysis along with application integration into machine control platforms. In 2018,
expect a bigger push for 3-D models because models are quickly evolving from being a simple instrument of project
visualization to mainstream information-rich building tool.

6 Upcoming Civil Engineering Trends for 2018

Here is a roundup of some of the latest trends in civil engineering that will change the way engineering projects are
implemented -

1) Automatic Machine Control Options for Specialized Machines Will Become Popular

As we venture further into 2018, more contractors are likely to invest in 3-D machine guidance and positioning
systems for specialized machinery to perform complex civil construction tasks. For example, the gutter and curb
machines equipped with elevation and steering control can perform batch operations with high accuracy while
saving valuable time and thousands of dollars for contractors in the long run.

Specialized machines with automatics option leverage steering algorithms and 3-D positioning guidance for high-
precision maneuvering through narrow corners and openings. Slope cutting and trenching tasks can be sped up by
30% with the use of 2-D and 3-D automated machine control in compact excavators and machine grading
attachments. Automatics option can enable contractors to implement civil engineering tasks more efficiently along
with better resource utilization and will be popularly used across the industry.

2) Automated Machine Guidance System Will Gain Momentum

Many manufacturers are preparing heavy equipment with machine control capability. This new feature is offered as
a built-in (or optional) module. Development towards this end will continue as a primary trend in 2018. Automated
machine guidance system will help contractors to keep the benefits of high ROI because it eliminates operator
fatigue and the need for dedicated on-site staff to verify the grade.

Advanced site positioning systems are fitted with automatic machine control options to speedily complete the task of
grading and pounding without a surveyor. The system is highly user-friendly and enables precision grading by
operators without rich experience in machine operation. The accessibility to machine control and site positioning
can open new avenues to undertake more projects without additional staffing or heavy equipment and will find mass
acceptance.

3) Mixed-Reality, UAV Data, and Big Data Analysis Will See Increased Adoption

Civil engineering is headed for a substantial change in the future with the innovative use of Unmanned Aerial
Vehicle (UAV), mixed reality technology, and Big Data analysis. Together, they will unravel the complexity of
construction projects.
As cloud-based analysis programs become more affordable, it will enable seamless integration of UAV and mixed
reality data into the workflow. The data analysis service will normalize the data collected by the UAV such as the
remainder of the concrete volume to be poured, commercial plot measurement in bulk, and more. All the data can be
analyzed to measure the project progress over an interval.

Also, the mixed reality (MR) based applications will gather momentum as augmented reality (AR) sees further
advancements. In MR, digital elements overlap with real-world objects to allow better visualization of civil
engineering projects. With the research and development gaining pace in these areas, the practical application of the
technology is not far where civil engineering contractors overlay the virtual models into an actual landscape through
a visual display unit.

4) Building Information Models Will Make Powerful Impact in Civil Engineering

In the past, 3-D models were used as a primary visualization tool to showcase the rendering of the civil engineering
projects. In 2018 and ahead, constructible 3-D models, otherwise known as Building Information Models (BIM) will
become vital in helping builders implement information-rich 3-D models. Adding more details to the 3-D model can
avoid confrontation with unplanned expenses during the project implementation. The 3-D model in civil engineering
can present enormous gains across all stages of construction whether it is earthmoving, excavation, compacting,
piping, or finishing.

Rapid implementation of high-quality designs in a cost-effective way is possible with 3-D models because it
supports the integration of multiple design processes. The constructible 3D model is a key trend that will field the
interest of contractors unabated because it offers a reliable way to recognize conflicts, enhance the collaboration,
and deliver accurate results.

5) Enhanced Application Integration Will Boost Collection of Machine Productivity Data

Civil engineering in 2018 is all about seamless application integration. Many modern civil and construction
technologies are based on open source platform that provides plasticity by incorporating other commercial
application's interface to the platform. The machine productivity data is constantly aggregated by maps, apps, and
other timesheet applications. The machine control systems powered by open platform will act as the centralized
information center where machines and data mesh with the human operators.

6) 3D Printing Will Reshape the Future Constructions

3D printing is still in the infancy despite its inception in the 80's. The widespread applicability of 3D printing is
shaping the future of civil engineering. Using printing technology to fabricate engineering materials and components
from digital models is a boon for contractors and design experts because it allows project completion at short TAT.
The major advantage of 3D printing is that designs can be fabricated by conservatively utilizing energy, time, and
associated labor. The initial expense may run high while establishing the system, but in the long run, wastage
reduction occurs at the source.

Choose Flatworld to Incorporate Latest Civil Engineering Trends into your Business

Hope you liked reading recent trends in civil engineering. The year 2018 will be a productive year for contractors
and builders because the civil engineering trends are gravitating towards accessibility of sophisticated machine
control platforms that are intuitive and requires less focus from the operators. The growth of 3-D models, UAV data
analysis, and mixed reality is spearheading innovation for real-time information sharing, information collaboration,
and better gains. Turning to technology can empower the contractors to take on complex projects and deliver
exceptional results to customers.
FWS has 12 years of experience serving customers with the most reliable and cost-efficientcivil engineering
services. Our efforts to deliver tailored services have yielded results and let to many client success stories. Our team
of experienced engineers can carry out your outsourced engineering project and deliver the best results from our
world-class delivery centers. At FWS, we are well aware of the latest developments happening in the industry and
offer advanced services like Paper to CAD Conversion Services, Land Development Services, MEP Design &
Drafting Services, etc. as per the unique client demands.

TOP 8 UPCOMING DEVELOPMENTS AND TRENDS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING FOR 2018 AND
BEYOND

Civil engineering is poised to undergo major transition in 2018; thanks to the advancement in technology which is
the driving force behind the changes this industry will witness. Some of the latest technologies we cover in this
write-up which were once dubbed sci-fi have already begun finding a way into the mainstream industry. Since the
last decade, the focus remained on smart materials and energy-efficient buildings. But, in recent times, civil
engineers are placing more emphasis on computer vision, BIM, virtual reality, sustainability, IoT, and 3D printing
technologies that are parallelly gaining prominence. In this write-up, we provide a mash-up of latest developments
in civil engineering that are becoming latest trends.

8 Latest Upcoming Trends in Civil Engineering

Here is a compilation of latest trends in civil engineering in 2018 that you should know -

1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Will Become Mainstream

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are the newest trends in civil engineering to watch out for in
2018. Although the technology itself isn't new, its applicability vis-a-vis civil and construction industry is gaining
immense popularity. VR and AR are forms of immersive media to visualize the end results and are increasingly
being used by both end users and the civil engineering project teams alike.

Virtual Reality is empowering the civil engineering industry with a user experience that was once possible only in
science fiction! Stakeholders and designers can benefit from the interactive and immersive experience in an isolated
ambiance created using sophisticated VR headsets, cardboard viewers, etc. After all, who wouldn't appreciate the
virtual experience of stepping into planned constructions even before the implementation?

Augmented Reality on the other hand interweaves real-world and graphics to give field personnel and civil
engineers useful information such as health and safety warnings, productivity statistics, design specifications, etc.,
making their job on field easy.

This is just the beginning, and the applications of VR and AR technologies are expected to broaden way beyond
expected in 2018 and the years ahead, making them the backbone of numerous civil and construction projects.

2. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Will Be Used in Large-scale Applications

More civil engineering projects this year are likely to see large-scale utilization of the Cloud technology and Big
Data. Also, latest in the list of innovation is the Building Information Modeling (BIM). Engineers can now create
virtual models of their designs through intelligent 3D modeling process. This futuristic technology can speed up the
time taken to turn building drawings into reality. Construction of bridges, electricity networks, and superstructures
can gain momentum with workable virtual models of the designs. As BIM and 3D modeling provide engineers a
chance to visualize completed designs at the onset, the design process is poised to be cost-efficient and more
streamlined in the future.
 3. Demand for Sustainable Designs Will Rise

Sustainable design is the most significant civil engineering trends in 2018. It is a movement that enjoys much
support from global organizations and even the government. The demand for smart materials, intelligent electrical
grids, smart buildings with embedded sensors, and other revolutionary technologies is giving civil engineers the
push to innovate sustainable designs that are forward-looking. One of the key areas of focus is zero-energy housing.
Insulating homes with double skin facade and integrating PV panels that facilitate better utilization of captured
energy.

As space is a major concern with the explosive population growth, smart use of space in housing which can ease the
congestion and pave way for sustainable urban development is also a key trend that will find wider acceptance this
year and the years ahead.

4. Drones Will Remain a Mainstay

Drone market has seen a sturdy growth in 2017. The trend is expected to continue even this year and sales of drones
is likely to exceed $12 billion by 2021! Commercial use of drones has reached an important milestone with
technological enhancements making drones more reliable than before. Drones are steadily making its presence felt
in in civil engineering industry, greatly influencing the design, development, and surveying of civil engineering
projects.

Drones are instrumental in carrying out safety inspections along with progress reporting. Drones effortlessly access
hazardous sections of the construction and collect data from large areas in a matter of minutes. This technology has
allowed surveyors to get the job done without risking life and limb.

In 2018 and beyond, drones are expected to become part of mainstream civil engineering. However, regulation of
drone technology is hotly debated due to its fast-paced evolution and its affordability to the mass market.

5. Advanced Building Materials Will Shape the Civil Engineering Designs of the Future

Advanced materials with shifting properties that adapt to external conditions are being introduced into the civil
engineering industry. From cement composite, advanced steel, and self-healing concrete, to fiber-reinforced polymer
composites, technology is transforming the materials being used in construction.

In 2017, Pavegen, a UK-based technology company outfitted sidewalk in London with innovative technology that
harvests kinetic energy from pedestrian movement and turns it into usable energy. This project highlights the need
for smart materials to trap and utilize energy which is otherwise wasted. Similarly, 4D-printed structures that
transform according to the shifting environmental conditions are the latest fad in civil engineering because they
prolong the life of constructions. Buildings in major cities around the world are coated with photocatalytic titanium
dioxide to combat pollutants in the air. In the long-term, it will mitigate human-induced environmental hazards. The
civil engineering design of the future is all about advanced materials that are largely focused on reducing carbon
footprints and harnessing the energy that our planet has to offer.

6. Internet of Things (IoT) Will be Leveraged to Engineer Smart Cities

Internet of Things (IoT) is a megatrend which is quickly reshaping the way in which civil engineering projects are
implemented. In a nutshell, IoT leverages sensors and network connectivity to allow communication between the
interconnected sensors. The sheer volume of data being exchanged is collected and analyzed to enhance future
decisions. IoT will play a leading role in monitoring the health of urban structures by pooling big data from the
building management system. It will be capable of recording data such as variations in concrete humidity,
vibrations, chloride content, and even abnormal deformations. The lengthy list of things IoT can achieve is gradually
growing thanks to cheap wireless sensors. It is one of the latest upcoming trends that will give rise to smart cities
and improve the quality of life of its inhabitants.

7. 3D Printing Is Expected to Have the Most Significant Impact in Civil Engineering

The year 2017 witnessed a surge in the demand for 3D Printing across various domains. In 2018, this revolution has
reached construction and civil engineering industry in a big way. 3D printing can turn engineering designs into scale
models or even real components required for building construction. This technology, currently in the advanced stage
is ready to take on more complex civil engineering challenges involving full-sized homes and bridges. Scientists are
contemplating the use of 3D printing for assisting humanity's efforts to colonize Mars. Without doubt, this is one of
the most exciting upcoming trends in civil engineering.

8. Robots May Take Up Mundane Civil Engineering Tasks

Robots in the construction industry are taking over tasks that are hazardous to humans. It not only improves worker
safety and productivity but also saves costs in the long run. Last year, civil engineering industry tasted success with
many iterations of bricklaying robots that illustrated efficiency by building walls six times faster than human
workers! However, the immediate challenge with Robotics is its initial cost, feasibility of mass application, and
reliability. Said that, with continuous improvements in the Robotic technology, we can expect to see robots taking
over the mundane tasks in construction and civil engineering in the future.

CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Civil Engineering and the Environment

Many universities that offer degrees in environmental engineering use it as a concentration within a civil
engineering program. While researching colleges, students should expect to see many Bachelor of Science in
Applied Technology or Civil Engineering with concentrations on environmental engineering. These degrees tend to
be more common that a bachelor’s that is strictly in environmental engineering.

The main difference between the two is that while a student who studies solely Environmental Engineering will take
environmental science-related courses and engineering classes that pertain to environmental problem solving, a Civil
Engineering student who concentrates their studies within environmental engineering will learn about the principals
of civil engineering and develop skills that can be applied to other fields as well.

Both prepare students for careers in environmental engineering; though civil engineering degrees tend to be broader
and focus on different areas across the realm of engineering rather than focusing on environmental solutions and
technology alone.

Comparing Civil Engineering to Environmental Engineering

While both civil and environmental engineers design plans, what they are designing varies greatly. Civil engineers
focus on the development of various structures, including roads, buildings, and airports, while environmental
engineers create different projects that can solve environmental issues.

Comparing Environmental Engineer to Environmental Scientist

Although environmental scientists and environmental engineers both focus on preventing and solving environmental
issues, one profession uses a close analysis of environmental data to get the job done while the other is more
involved in the design of technologies used to help protect our soil and water. More details about these two careers
are outlined below.
What is Environmental Science?

Environmental science is the study of the effects of natural and unnatural processes, and of interactions of the
physical components of the planet on the environment.

Environmental Scientists are those who work in a variety of fields related to the Earth and its resources. They may
work in a variety of roles from Environmental Lawyer, Coral Reef Sanctuary Manager, Antarctic Researcher,
Laboratory Technician, Wastewater Technician, or Solar Panel Engineer. They have gone through school in a
variety of ways to obtain their current positions.

Environmental science, studies, policy, and management degree programs are offered at many colleges and

universities throughout the world, including quite a few in the United States and Canada. Many students may have
begun in a different major, and gone on to graduate school for an Environmental degree. It is one of the fastest
growing fields in employment in the United States according the US Labor Bureau.

What does an Environmental Scientist Do?

Environmental Scientists work with the Earth's Resources. That is a very broad definition, but considering an
Environmental Scientist could be doing anything from helping increase palm wood production in the forests of
Samoa to sampling frozen lakes in Siberia or arguing legal cases before the Supreme Court, Environmental
Scientists do a lot! Most communities employ at least a few at their local sanitation station, in their building/roads
department, and in their public health departments. That would be considered a minimum for a very small
community. Cities hire entire environmental legal teams, employ water and transportation teams, infrastructure
specialists, local environmental specialists, parks and recreation, etc. The US government is a huge employer; the
United States Environmental Protection Agency, the National Park Service, the National Oceanographic and
Atmospheric Administration, the United States Geological Survey, and the Department of Energy are just a few of
the major employers at the federal level. The private sector also hires a lot of Environmental Science professionals.
They may work in as college professors, in R&D, as lobbyists, as remediation specialists, journalists, etc. Here are
some potential jobs/careers:

 Agricultural Engineer

 College Professor

 Park Ranger

 Oceanographer

 Toxicologist

ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING

Environmental engineering is the branch of engineering that is concerned with protecting people from the effects of
adverse environmental effects, such as pollution, as well as improving environmental quality. Environmental
engineers work to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control, according to
the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The practice of environmental engineering dates back to the dawn of civilization. Ever since groups of people began
living in semi-permanent settlements, they have had to deal with the challenges of providing clean water and
disposing of solid waste and sewage. With the growth of cities and the advent of large-scale farming and
manufacturing, people have also had to worry about air quality and soil contamination.
What do environmental engineers do?

Environmental engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry to develop solutions
to environmental problems, according to the BLS. Some projects involving environmental engineers include:

 Roman Stocker of MIT studied the interactions between tiny marine organisms, their environment and their
food sources, which led to a better understanding of how algae blooms occur. (Stocker also was the
scientist behind recent research — and popular high-speed video — into how cats lap milk.)

 Michael Nassry, who, as a Ph.D. student in biological systems engineering at Virginia Tech, studied how
nutrients flow through glaciersin Alaska. 

 Glenn Morrison, an associate professor of environmental engineering at Missouri University of Science and
Technology, is studying how methamphetamine accumulates in building materials, furniture and common
household items during production.

One of the most important responsibilities of environmental engineering is to prevent the release of harmful
chemical and biological contaminants into the air, water and soil, the BLS says. This requires extensive knowledge
of the chemistry and biology of the potential contaminants as well as the industrial or agricultural processes that
might lead to their release. With this knowledge, new processes can be designed, or existing processes can be
modified, to reduce or eliminate the release of pollutants.

Another important function performed by environmental engineers is detecting the presence of pollutants and
tracking them back to their source, the BLS says. In some cases, this can present a significant challenge. For
instance, the source of contamination in a lake could be anywhere within several thousands of acres of land
surrounding the lake and its tributaries. Contamination of oceans can present even greater challenges in identifying
the source.

Once the environmental engineer identifies a source of contamination, it must be stopped or significantly reduced.
Simply shutting down a business is not always a viable option, because of the potential for severe economic
consequences. Environmental engineers often work with businesses to determine ways to avoid or reduce the
production of pollutants or to separate them so they can be disposed of in a safe manner.

Critical skills needed by environmental engineers include a working knowledge of chemical engineering, fluid
dynamics, geography, geology and hydrology. Also, because of the numerous legal issues involved and the
prevalence of litigation in environmental issues, environmental engineers must be familiar with applicable laws, and
many of them are also practicing attorneys.