In-Situ Robotic Construction: Extending the Digital Fabrication Chain in Architecture

Abstract

In this paper, viable applications of mobile robotic units on construction sites are explored. While expanding on potential objectives 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 cognitive environmental human skills, a simple but effective mobile fabrication system is experimented for the building of algorithmically designed additive assemblies that would not be possible through conventional manual methods if the large amount of individual building blocks and the size of the structure to be built are taken into account. 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.