On the weekend of August 14-16, international and domestic students from Shanghai JiaoTong  University competed alongside other students across China in the Second National Intelligent  Construction Competition in Kunming, Yunnan. The competition hosted over 1,000 students and  teachers from 155 universities with the goal of implementing construction technology for urban  renewable and low carbon solutions in the context of Yunnan. SJTU was one of two institutions  that sent an international delegation to compete in the competition.

Figure 1 – Shanghai Jiao Tong University international students Mongmrasa Marma Manu, Zachary Hwang, and  Yasin Amara Sekou S Dra

Students prepared weeks in advance by creating their groups, attending the scanning and  software training during the weekend on SJTU campus, and preparing a presentation to be  delivered in front of a panel of judges who were experts in their respective fields. Point cloud  data was collected and given during competition weekend to reconstruct 3D models giving teams  the opportunity to exercise their newly developed skillsets. The competition addresses various  sectors in the construction industry: buildings, energy, water resources, equipment, and  transportation and gave students an opportunity to showcase their ideas through professional  presentations.

Figure 2 – The student-developed User Interface for monitoring sensor data on a building’s temperature and  moisture level over time

The focus of the competition was environmental consciousness; how can infrastructure we build  and operate implement intelligent construction to reduce carbon emissions? This competition  breaks down the barriers between classroom theory and frontline engineering practice. Goals are  aligned with industry frontiers through innovative practices, promoting learning and teaching  through competition. This competition prepared students for multidisciplinary practice and civil  engineering industry which are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence, data processing, digital  reconstruction, and BIM technology. Industry standards for high-quality and innovative  engineering talent are constantly on the rise.

Figure 3 – Shanghai Jiao Tong University students and teachers who attended the competition

The delegation of the international team from SJTU was awarded with the second prize.  Performance scoring was based on multiple criteria. Including scanning and point cloud splicing  accuracy, 3D model detail reconstruction, a report or construction video, and the presentation.  The competition required the conceptual installation of an elevator and upgrade to existing  building envelope and structural components, along with how these building modifications could  help reduce carbon emissions.

Figure 4 – Students using the 3D laser scanning technology at the competition

Through point cloud splicing, digital twin creation, and development of an intelligent user  interface to monitor sensor data. Students were able to identify gaps in the current infrastructure  and offer specific recommendations retrofitting. Through use of intelligent construction  technology students sought solutions to create greener infrastructure in Yunnan.

Zachary Hwang, August 20, 2026