The relationship has already seen ABB Robotics win the prize for ‘ Best Use of Robotics or Automation in Construction ’ at the 2023 Robotics & Automation Awards .
AUAR ’ s automated micro-factory approach provides a solution to many of the challenges facing building companies , including supply chain issues , project delivery and quality and skills shortages .
Conventional buildings consist of thousands of different components shipped from around the world , making it almost impossible to automate construction . In contrast , AUAR ’ s goal is to work with one type of material and one type of machine to dramatically simplify the supply chain .
The production process uses standard sheets of timber . A robot cuts the sheets into components and assembles them into units that are transported to site , enabling
The collaboration with AUAR follows the announcement by ABB working with German management consulting firm , Porsche Consulting , to develop innovative new practices in modular housing manufacture .
complete customized homes to be built in a matter of weeks .
While many of the assembly tasks are automated , AUAR ’ s approach supports local jobs by promoting the use of micro-factories close to construction sites , where local contractors and suppliers can coordinate delivery .
The micro-factory approach is flexible enough to meet whatever each market demands . Each facility can be scaled to reflect local needs , with the ability to ramp up production by adding modular robot cells .
“ With the focus on the dual needs of building more affordable homes and minimizing the environmental footprint of buildings throughout their lifetime , automated modular construction presents a great opportunity to rethink the way that the buildings are constructed ,” added McDonnell . “ Our collaborations with AUAR and Porsche Consulting mark an exciting step in our efforts to accelerate the use of robotic automation in the construction industry to help address its challenges and deliver the sustainable buildings of the future .”
* ABB Robotics global market survey , 2023
For further information , please visit https :// go . abb / robotics
Issue 68 PECM 53