Planning with AI Eyes : Using Computer Vision in the Planning Phase of Construction Projects and the Challenges of Protecting Privacy

Sammanfattning

This study undertakes using of computer vision in construction project planning, identifying privacy challenges that may arise when computer vision is used to monitor people's activities or public spaces to gather information for improved planning and design quality during project processes. While computer vision is increasingly used in the construction phase for safety monitoring, its implementation in early planning and pre-design stages remains unexplored. During the construction phase, actors often face challenges caused by information gaps from the planning stage. These gaps affect their decision-making and project timelines, for example, when they need to make design choices or prepare plans during the pre-design phase. This study employs a qualitative method, beginning with a literature review to identify research gaps and secondary sources, and is followed by the collection of data through semi-structured interviews. This study examines six areas where computer vision is applied and analyzes how its use in the planning phase of construction projects can help address challenges such as frequent changes during construction or a lack of information in the early stages, by providing accurate, real-time data from project sites. The study shows that computer vision can improve planning and pre-design processes and support the design of spaces that better adapt to users’ behaviours and needs. This leads to higher quality, greater accuracy in measurements and dimensions, and more efficient use of space. Furthermore, the technology enables more informed and effective planning and execution, providing decision-makers with better support. The study thus highlights the role of computer vision in construction project planning, particularly its contribution to improved data quality and decision-making through information collected from construction project sites. This study also examines the importance of personal privacy and ethical considerations, using the taxonomy of privacy theory. The findings of this study shows that when a company or individual works with or handles personal or sensitive data, they must understand how to protect that data from any risk, such as data leakage or unauthorized sharing with third parties. This study underscores the critical importance of privacy protection throughout the entire process of data collection, processing, storage, and retention, ensuring that all measures are carried out in compliance with applicable laws and regulatory frameworks.