Unlocking Efficiency: The Impact of Projection Mapping in Japanese Construction Firms

Japanese firms are beginning to utilise projection mapping in the construction industry, saving time and cutting costs on large projects. Currently, large-scale projection is associated with lighting shows and displays, whether that be for entertainment or informative purposes. Companies such as Maeda and Taisei have discovered that projection can be used for marking construction layouts, a tedious process traditionally requiring several different types of specialists. This has also become an opportunity for the Audio-Visual industry, presenting the chance to offer an impressive solution to construction firms that can efficiently streamline a complex process.

Traditionally, construction workers manually mark out the layouts of air conditioning, wiring and lighting according to blueprints. This is a detailed process, only entrusted to specialists like electricians or plumbers, usually requiring lots of time and labour. With projection mapping, a detailed blueprint is turned into a digital format and projected onto a wall or floor, from there the worker simply traces over the projection.

When this technique was applied at a condominium site, the layout time was cut by 30%. Japanese construction firm Taisei have said that ‘the greatest merit is that anyone can do the job’.

Another Japanese firm, Maeda, has found another use case for this development. They are now using projection mapping to enhance safety at construction sites where heavy machinery is involved. For tasks like ground excavation, workers would previously have to be in close proximity to this machinery, whereby ensuring their safety proved a huge challenge. Implementing a projection mapping system has meant that ground levels can be measured with a laser, and different colours can be projected onto the surface, indicating how much excavation each section needs. This way, workers do not need to get too close to the dangerous machinery, as they can see from a distance where and by how much to excavate the ground. Maeda has found this so successful; they are beginning plans to commercialise the process.

Projection mapping has proved an effective tool in removing as much risk as possible from dangerous construction processes, creating a safe working environment through the means of mechanisation, ICT technology and automation. This type of Audio-Visual technology might be primarily associated with entertaining light shows, but it could help to solve major issues for the construction industry, especially when labour

shortages and safety cause significant concern. This could be a fantastic opportunity for Audio-Visual companies to expand their offerings and capitalise on an untapped part of the market.