University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) is using artificial intelligence technology to build facilities at the new Royal Bournemouth Hospital.
The Buildots technology analyses data that has been captured at the site through helmet-mounted 360-degree cameras. It then creates progress reports that are supported by visuals, which the trust says are designed to provide “accurate, objective data and in-depth analysis” to managers and stakeholders.
Integrated Health Projects, UHD’s main contractor for transformation, is undertaking the project. Their project director Bruce Preston said: “By embracing Buildots smart technology, we’re able to use AI and 3D model vision to efficiently track build progress compared with design and schedule to help ensure we remain on course.”
The work focuses on the hospital’s new BEACH building (births, emergency and critical care and children’s health), and will include a new maternity unit, children’s unit, critical care unit and enhanced emergency department. The building is to meet BREAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) standards of excellence, placing it in the top 10 percent of UK buildings when it comes to sustainability.
The trust plans to open the new facilities early in 2025 as part of a £250 million transformation of UHD’s hospitals.
Steve Killen, UHD’s transformation director, said: “The NHS is committed to efficient use of public funds, and Buildots technology is a great example of how we’re using cutting edge technology to help provide the best value for money for the taxpayer. It provides evidence-based analysis in real time, reassuring us that the healthcare standards on the BEACH building project are being met.
“This construction project is part of a wider Dorset health strategy, with Royal Bournemouth Hospital incorporating some of the most modern healthcare facilities in the UK as the major emergency hospital for Dorset.”
Aviv Leibovici, Buildots chief product officer, commented: “We’re proud that Buildots is enabling this complicated project to be completed in a most efficient manner, and hope that others will follow Bournemouth’s lead in building the next generation of healthcare and other facilities.”
