Exhibition showcases innovations in construction sector

Futuristic and automated cleaners and remote surveillance systems are among the indicators of the growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in Tiruchi’s homes, organisers of the ARCHMAT 2026, a biennial exhibition of art and architectural products, have said.

“We have over 60 vendor stalls showcasing a large variety of AI and internet-enabled gadgets and infrastructure materials that show how advanced technology has become integral to the real estate sector in the past few years. AI-aided design and manufacturing has helped speed up the work on ground. Customers are expecting faster deliverables since AI has cut down many time-consuming processes,” S. Bala Hari Krishnan, convenor, ARCHMAT and executive committee member, Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Tiruchi chapter, told The Hindu on Friday.

The 14th edition of ARCHMAT 2026 was inaugurated on Friday by T.R. Palaniappan, chairperson, IIA, Tamil Nadu chapter, at Kalaignar Arivalayam. S. Senthilkumar, chairperson, IIA Tiruchi chapter, S. Vijaykumar, chairperson ARCHTRUST, Tiruchi, and R. Manoharan, chairperson, CREDAI Tiruchi, were present.

At the Saravana Electrical Enterprises stall, robotic cleaners that can be pre-programmed to sweep and mop different surfaces in residential settings drew many onlookers.

“Even though Tiruchi is a Tier 2 city, customers have ample exposure to smart home technology through travel and the online videos. Our ‘Tiron’ brand of robotic cleaners can make home cleaning more efficient and comprehensive. The entire area to be cleaned is mapped digitally before installation, and depending on the model, prices of our robotic cleaners start upwards of ₹17,000,” said sales official R. Gopalakrishnan.

Innovations in bricks such as ‘Porotherm’ lightweight and perforated clay hollow blocks manufactured by Weinberger India, and power-saving lighting fixtures were among the wide variety of products on display. The expo is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. until October 4. Admission is free.