Could Robotic Technology Be Used In Off-Site Construction?

The integration of technology is essential when improving the processes of all things. From the roads we drive on to the smartphones we place in our pockets, the constant development of technology is fundamental. And the construction sector is no different. Today technology plays a vital role throughout the industry, and continual advancements mean that we can now rely more heavily on digital designing and techniques that differ from traditional builds.

Without these advancements we’d be out of business; can you imagine what the response would be if in our quote to a client we gave them a construction time of 200 years? – That’s how long it took to build the Notre Dame! In this vein, our latest blog post looks into how technology could change off-site construction techniques in the future and the distinct advantages of the methods we use today.

Fresh research into new off-site construction techniques

The applications of off-site construction methods are wide ranging and a large portion of it relates to its use in manufacturing homes. Despite the fact that Springfield don’t produce houses – our focus is commercial not residential, this area is however relevant in regard to the new research into how robotics could be integrated into off-site construction processes. This research resides from Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University, where their Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Build Environment are conducting a research project into how to further innovate these processes.

The project explores the feasibility of integrating robotics into the off-site construction of buildings, to create a more industrialised and systematic production line – focusing in this case on the fabrication of cross-laminated timber joints. Researchers are working in collaboration with the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre and Glulam Solutions, a timber engineering firm. The final idea is to see whether the introduction of this robotic technology will reduce the delays and inaccuracies of manual construction using traditional methods, and marry them with already advantageous benefits of off-site construction.

The advantages of using off-site construction

We’re a long way off employing robots here at Springfield, but presently we don’t have any need for them. The expert team we have here are the perfect working example of how the off-site construction methods we use are second to none in comparison to the option of traditional methods. The technology they use revolves around the 40,000 sq. ft. ISO-approved workshop where the team can ensure that our bespoke buildings are delivered as just that: your building, your way.

Our workshop provides our team with a controlled environment. This environment means that we are not affected by weather conditions and so the length of time it takes to complete your building is drastically shortened. We would therefore only need a couple of days on-site to deliver and install it. The workshop also allows us to offer a wider selection of top-quality materials to our clients, alongside a range of building finishes to ensure that the building meets the exact specifications a client may have. Together, the use of this technology means that opting for off-site methods will result in a building that is cheaper overall, will be delivered more quickly and will be truly bespoke.

If you would like to find out more about the sectors in which we work or would like to get in contact regarding a building, visit our contact us page or call 01744 851958.