Mobile robotic fabrication on construction sites: DimRob

Abstract

In this paper, viable applications for mobile robotic units on construction sites are explored. While identifying potential areas for in-situ fabrication in the construction sector, the intention is also to build upon innovative man-machine interaction paradigms to deal with the imprecision and tolerances often faced on construction sites. By combining the precision of the machine with the innate cognitive human skills, a simple but effective mobile fabrication system is tested for the building of algorithmically designed structures that would not be possible through conventional manual means. It is believed that this new approach to man-machine collaboration, aimed at a deeper integration of human ability with the strengths of digitally controlled machines, will result in advances in the construction sector, thus opening up new design and application fields for architects and planners.