The Dallas-based tech startup Rollout noticed just how paper-dependent AEC firms are.
The company says that 90% of contractors still use paper plans, and that 37 million construction drawings are printed every year. These outdated drawings end up costing these firms $9 billion per year.
Rollout developed PaperLight, an interactive projector and screen that provides the benefits of paper, but without the waste.
Users assemble PaperLight with the 34x24-inch white screen flat on a surface and the 29-inch projection rod hovering above it. It works as a touchscreen, where users can not only view plans, but also sketch, zoom in and out, and write notes with a stylus or their fingers. PaperLight captures edits automatically and can connect with a computer.
It fits on most desktops, and the projector can even be angled upwards and shined onto a wall for presentations. PaperLight works with a bunch of programs, including Photoshop, Autodesk AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit. The device is made of plastic, not glass, and it is shatterproof, water-resistant, and portable. It weighs 20 lbs.
Rollout will begin a crowdfunding campaign on SPURstartup later this week. PaperLight has a retail price of $5,000 and a pre-order price of $3,999 while supplies last.
Related Stories
AEC Tech | Jan 30, 2017
Building Design+Construction launches Accelerate Live! AEC innovation conference
This fast-paced forum will showcase 18 business and tech visionaries from AEC Giant firms, who will explore the future of the AEC industry and the changing built environment.
| Jan 24, 2017
BD+C Accelerate Live! AEC Innovation Conference
Building Design+Construction's inaugural Accelerate Live!
AEC Tech | Dec 22, 2016
The success of your data strategy depends on healthy business practices
Data and digital tools are an absolute given to today’s building design and construction process. But creating a true data-driven workflow requires more than just a solid strategy, writes Proving Ground’s Nathan Miller.
AEC Tech | Dec 18, 2016
Customized future weather data now available for online purchase
Simulation tool, developed by Arup and Argos Analytics, is offered to help owners and AEC firms devise resilience strategies for buildings.
Virtual Reality | Nov 16, 2016
Converting 3D model files to VR, with one click
IrisVR offers two new products to simplify and enhance the application of virtual reality for designing projects.
AEC Tech | Sep 6, 2016
Innovation intervention: How AEC firms are driving growth through R&D programs
AEC firms are taking a page from the tech industry, by infusing a deep commitment to innovation and disruption into their cultural DNA.
Hardware | Aug 11, 2016
Kyocera introduces the DuraForce PRO, a rugged smartphone equipped with an HD action camera (UPDATED)
The Super Wide View HD Action Camera and rugged design allow users to capture their adventures on land, air, or sea.
AEC Tech | Jun 27, 2016
If ‘only the paranoid survive,’ what does it take to thrive?
“Sooner or later, something fundamental in your business world will change.” The late Andrew Grove (1936-2016), Co-founder of tech giant Intel Corp., lived by these words.
AEC Tech | Jun 17, 2016
Driverless cars could soon start impacting commercial, retail project design
Offsite parking and more space for valet parking lines are among the foreseeable changes.
3D Printing | Jun 14, 2016
By 2021, 3D concrete printing is projected to be a $56.4 million industry
The 3D concrete printing industry is expected to more than double in size within the next five years.