https://doi.org/10.24928/2023/0247

Flexible Robotic Production in Off-Site Construction: A Lean Approac

Jennifer Alejandra Cardenas Castaneda1, Beda Barkokebas2, Pablo Martinez3 & Rafiq Ahmad4

1Researcher Graduate Student, Smart & Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Laboratory, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, [email protected]
2Assistant Professor, Department of Engineering and Construction Management, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile, [email protected]
3Senior Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, [email protected], orcid.org/0000-0003-3397-9617
4Associate Professor, Smart & Sustainable Manufacturing Systems Laboratory, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, [email protected]

Abstract

The integration of robotics into flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) has been identified as a potential strategy for increasing modular construction flexibility. The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual framework for investigating the relationship between FMS and robotics in modular construction. The framework proposes that by incorporating robotics into FMS, prefabricated building component manufacturing systems will gain flexibility. The two key variables of the framework are robotics (as the independent variable) and FMS (as the dependent variable). Moderator variables such as controlled environment and variability are also considered, as are mediator variables such as real-time adjustments, productivity, equipment utilization, set-up times, varying speeds, and reduced manpower. The purpose of this paper is to set the theoretical foundation for further studies on robotics integration into FMS in modular construction. The paper concludes with a discussion of the proposed implications of the framework for modular construction practitioners and researchers.

Keywords

Construction 4.0, modular construction, robotics, flexible manufacturing systems.

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Reference

Castaneda, J. A. C. , Barkokebas, B. , Martinez, P. & Ahmad, R. 2023. Flexible Robotic Production in Off-Site Construction: A Lean Approac, Proceedings of the 31st Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction (IGLC31) , 596-607. doi.org/10.24928/2023/0247

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