News
February 13, 2025

February 2025: The Latest Innovations in Construction Technology

Caroline Raffetto

From cutting-edge exoskeletons to AI-powered assistants, the latest construction technology releases are revolutionizing the industry. This month’s offerings introduce groundbreaking solutions designed to enhance safety, productivity, and efficiency across job sites. Here’s a breakdown of six of the most notable releases in recent months.

German Bionic’s Apogee Ultra: A Smarter, Stronger Exoskeleton

German Bionic, a Berlin-based robotics firm, has unveiled the Apogee Ultra, a next-generation robotic exoskeleton engineered to support workers in construction and other high-intensity industries. The exoskeleton leverages advanced machine learning capabilities to adapt to individual user needs, reducing strain and boosting productivity.

Construction Technology Trends ...

With dynamic lifting assistance of up to 80 pounds, the Apogee Ultra makes heavy lifting significantly easier. Workers lifting 70-pound loads will feel as if they are only handling 8.8 pounds, alleviating stress on the lower back. In addition, the exoskeleton features active walking support, making long distances feel shorter and providing relief for bent-over tasks, improving comfort and efficiency in labor-intensive roles.

Users will receive ongoing support and over-the-air updates to enhance device functionality.

“Data serves as the cornerstone for continuous device evolution and protecting workplace investments. Thanks to machine learning, the Apogee Ultra is always up to date, with new features and capabilities delivered through over-the-air updates,” said Norma Steller, head of development at German Bionic.

Splashtop AR and RealWear Smart Glasses: Hands-Free Remote Support

Splashtop’s Augmented Reality (AR) solution is now compatible with RealWear Smart Glasses, offering hands-free remote support for hazardous job sites in construction and utilities. This integration enables offsite experts to provide real-time guidance to frontline workers, reducing risks, lowering repair costs, and improving overall safety.

The combination of Splashtop AR and RealWear allows remote specialists to see what on-site technicians see, providing real-time visual annotations and voice-guided assistance without disrupting workflow. The hands-free capability ensures that workers can complete tasks safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with OSHA standards.

“Most remote solutions are designed for a traditional office setting. Splashtop AR has empowered on-site workers and remote technicians to collaborate in real time, as if they were in the same room,” said Mark Lee, co-founder and CEO of Splashtop. “Making Splashtop AR available on RealWear will be a game-changer for companies in hazardous environments, giving them hands-free access to remote technicians when they need it the most.”

Nemetschek Group Introduces AI Assistant for ALLPLAN and Graphisoft

The Munich-based software provider Nemetschek Group is tapping into the rise of agentic AI with the launch of its AI Assistant for ALLPLAN and Graphisoft. Designed to handle repetitive tasks, the AI Assistant allows designers and engineers to focus on more complex, creative aspects of construction planning.

For example, the AI Assistant can automatically apply virtual wood cladding to a building exterior in early design phases, reducing the time and effort needed for manual modeling. It can also help during compliance reviews by isolating specific design elements, such as MEP components, or identifying non-fire-rated doors within a structure.

Embedded directly into Graphisoft’s Archicad as a chatbot, the AI Assistant can take user input and execute specific tasks. In ALLPLAN, its capabilities extend beyond the software, allowing it to pull product knowledge, industry insights, and other resources from the internet to assist with project planning.

Sterling DCS Unveils Forecasting Module for Cost and Carbon Tracking

Sterling Digital Construction Solutions, a UK-based firm, is betting on the continued industry focus on sustainability with the release of its new Forecasting Module. This tool integrates project schedules with cost and carbon estimates, helping builders make data-driven decisions.

“The Forecasting Module is a leap forward for construction professionals,” said Steve Brunning, CEO of Sterling DCS. “By connecting cost and carbon data with project schedules, Sterling enables smarter decision-making and fosters sustainable, efficient project delivery. This is about empowering the industry with the tools it needs to succeed in a modern, data-driven world.”

The module integrates seamlessly with Oracle Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and Excel, providing detailed cash and carbon forecasts. Its Revision Manager feature ensures project teams can adapt to changes while maintaining transparency across stakeholders.

Buildots and Revizto Announce Strategic Integration

Two leading construction technology firms, Buildots and Revizto, have teamed up to streamline issue management and enhance project performance through AI-driven tracking and centralized communication.

This integration allows construction teams to leverage Buildots’ AI-powered performance tracking while managing collaboration through Revizto’s platform. Using the industry-standard BCF format, teams can export construction issues detected by Buildots into Revizto, ensuring seamless coordination.

Each exported issue includes detailed documentation, including snapshots from Buildots’ AI-powered progress tracking and precise BIM model locations. This integration enhances efficiency and prevents minor problems from escalating into costly delays.

IVO Systems Automates Time Tracking for Heavy Civil Projects

Wisconsin-based IVO Systems has launched TimeVO, an automated time-tracking solution for heavy civil projects. TimeVO connects field, office, and shop operations by adding auto-populated time tracking to existing equipment and employee management tools.

The solution enables users to link multiple pieces of equipment to employees, assign bid items with multiple cost codes, and automate timecard entries. By integrating auto-populated time data into project budgets, managers can make proactive adjustments to keep projects on track.

IVO Systems, backed by TitletownTech, a partnership between Microsoft and the Green Bay Packers, offers TimeVO as part of a broader suite of nine integrated tracking modules, enhancing job site efficiency.

Construction Tech Continues to Evolve

With each passing month, the construction industry sees innovative technologies that redefine how projects are planned, executed, and managed. From AI-driven assistants and robotic exoskeletons to hands-free remote collaboration tools, February’s new releases highlight the ongoing push toward greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability in construction.

Originally reported by Joe Bousquin and Jennifer Goodman in Construction Dive.

News
February 13, 2025

February 2025: The Latest Innovations in Construction Technology

Caroline Raffetto
Construction Technology
United States

From cutting-edge exoskeletons to AI-powered assistants, the latest construction technology releases are revolutionizing the industry. This month’s offerings introduce groundbreaking solutions designed to enhance safety, productivity, and efficiency across job sites. Here’s a breakdown of six of the most notable releases in recent months.

German Bionic’s Apogee Ultra: A Smarter, Stronger Exoskeleton

German Bionic, a Berlin-based robotics firm, has unveiled the Apogee Ultra, a next-generation robotic exoskeleton engineered to support workers in construction and other high-intensity industries. The exoskeleton leverages advanced machine learning capabilities to adapt to individual user needs, reducing strain and boosting productivity.

Construction Technology Trends ...

With dynamic lifting assistance of up to 80 pounds, the Apogee Ultra makes heavy lifting significantly easier. Workers lifting 70-pound loads will feel as if they are only handling 8.8 pounds, alleviating stress on the lower back. In addition, the exoskeleton features active walking support, making long distances feel shorter and providing relief for bent-over tasks, improving comfort and efficiency in labor-intensive roles.

Users will receive ongoing support and over-the-air updates to enhance device functionality.

“Data serves as the cornerstone for continuous device evolution and protecting workplace investments. Thanks to machine learning, the Apogee Ultra is always up to date, with new features and capabilities delivered through over-the-air updates,” said Norma Steller, head of development at German Bionic.

Splashtop AR and RealWear Smart Glasses: Hands-Free Remote Support

Splashtop’s Augmented Reality (AR) solution is now compatible with RealWear Smart Glasses, offering hands-free remote support for hazardous job sites in construction and utilities. This integration enables offsite experts to provide real-time guidance to frontline workers, reducing risks, lowering repair costs, and improving overall safety.

The combination of Splashtop AR and RealWear allows remote specialists to see what on-site technicians see, providing real-time visual annotations and voice-guided assistance without disrupting workflow. The hands-free capability ensures that workers can complete tasks safely and efficiently while maintaining compliance with OSHA standards.

“Most remote solutions are designed for a traditional office setting. Splashtop AR has empowered on-site workers and remote technicians to collaborate in real time, as if they were in the same room,” said Mark Lee, co-founder and CEO of Splashtop. “Making Splashtop AR available on RealWear will be a game-changer for companies in hazardous environments, giving them hands-free access to remote technicians when they need it the most.”

Nemetschek Group Introduces AI Assistant for ALLPLAN and Graphisoft

The Munich-based software provider Nemetschek Group is tapping into the rise of agentic AI with the launch of its AI Assistant for ALLPLAN and Graphisoft. Designed to handle repetitive tasks, the AI Assistant allows designers and engineers to focus on more complex, creative aspects of construction planning.

For example, the AI Assistant can automatically apply virtual wood cladding to a building exterior in early design phases, reducing the time and effort needed for manual modeling. It can also help during compliance reviews by isolating specific design elements, such as MEP components, or identifying non-fire-rated doors within a structure.

Embedded directly into Graphisoft’s Archicad as a chatbot, the AI Assistant can take user input and execute specific tasks. In ALLPLAN, its capabilities extend beyond the software, allowing it to pull product knowledge, industry insights, and other resources from the internet to assist with project planning.

Sterling DCS Unveils Forecasting Module for Cost and Carbon Tracking

Sterling Digital Construction Solutions, a UK-based firm, is betting on the continued industry focus on sustainability with the release of its new Forecasting Module. This tool integrates project schedules with cost and carbon estimates, helping builders make data-driven decisions.

“The Forecasting Module is a leap forward for construction professionals,” said Steve Brunning, CEO of Sterling DCS. “By connecting cost and carbon data with project schedules, Sterling enables smarter decision-making and fosters sustainable, efficient project delivery. This is about empowering the industry with the tools it needs to succeed in a modern, data-driven world.”

The module integrates seamlessly with Oracle Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and Excel, providing detailed cash and carbon forecasts. Its Revision Manager feature ensures project teams can adapt to changes while maintaining transparency across stakeholders.

Buildots and Revizto Announce Strategic Integration

Two leading construction technology firms, Buildots and Revizto, have teamed up to streamline issue management and enhance project performance through AI-driven tracking and centralized communication.

This integration allows construction teams to leverage Buildots’ AI-powered performance tracking while managing collaboration through Revizto’s platform. Using the industry-standard BCF format, teams can export construction issues detected by Buildots into Revizto, ensuring seamless coordination.

Each exported issue includes detailed documentation, including snapshots from Buildots’ AI-powered progress tracking and precise BIM model locations. This integration enhances efficiency and prevents minor problems from escalating into costly delays.

IVO Systems Automates Time Tracking for Heavy Civil Projects

Wisconsin-based IVO Systems has launched TimeVO, an automated time-tracking solution for heavy civil projects. TimeVO connects field, office, and shop operations by adding auto-populated time tracking to existing equipment and employee management tools.

The solution enables users to link multiple pieces of equipment to employees, assign bid items with multiple cost codes, and automate timecard entries. By integrating auto-populated time data into project budgets, managers can make proactive adjustments to keep projects on track.

IVO Systems, backed by TitletownTech, a partnership between Microsoft and the Green Bay Packers, offers TimeVO as part of a broader suite of nine integrated tracking modules, enhancing job site efficiency.

Construction Tech Continues to Evolve

With each passing month, the construction industry sees innovative technologies that redefine how projects are planned, executed, and managed. From AI-driven assistants and robotic exoskeletons to hands-free remote collaboration tools, February’s new releases highlight the ongoing push toward greater efficiency, safety, and sustainability in construction.

Originally reported by Joe Bousquin and Jennifer Goodman in Construction Dive.