As part of the 2024-2025 Glass and Glazing Design Academy, the "Keeping Pace with Technology" webinar — that NGA coordinated with Architectural Record on Oct. 31, 2024 — focused on emerging technologies in the architecture and glazing industry, aimed at improving the design, specification and installation processes. Speakers included Keith Fine, principal and director of innovation, S/L/A/M Collaborative and Blaine Grantham, principal and owner, Titan AEC, who shared their expertise, particularly around how cutting-edge tools are transforming commercial building projects and enhancing the precision and efficiency in commercial glazing applications.
About the webinar
The webinar covered four main topics: laser scanning, artificial intelligence, robotics in glazing installation and advanced visualization tools. The use of laser scanning and photogrammetry was discussed as a method for capturing precise measurements and reducing errors in glazing installation. AI was explored as a tool for expediting design iterations and optimizing building performance, while robotics in construction focused on improving safety and efficiency in glazing installation through automation.
What the speakers said
"AI really is going to be changing where we're headed… There are rudimentary solutions to turn sketches to views or generate architectural treatments, but real AI-driven design requires contextual thinking beyond prompt engineering," says Fine.
"We're seeing tools like Dusty [Robotics] layout systems coming onto sites more and more. These reduce errors and improve speed and safety, especially when working on high-rise glazing projects," adds Grantham.
Lastly, the speakers emphasized the power of advanced visualization and rendering tools, which allow architects to present highly realistic design models to clients, enhancing decision-making and collaboration.
