Deconstruction Robots

Introduction

The name robot covers a wide range of applications, but by definition is a machine capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically. They can be independent or tethered, externally controlled or have embedded AI (artificial intelligence). They are used across a wide range of applications including industry, health, leisure, defence and the building industry [1]. They are ideal for work in dangerous areas and to preform repetitive or difficult tasks, thus removing health and safety concerns that would normally be applied to human workers. In addition, they can achieve high levels of precision and work 24/7, resulting in higher productivity with an enhanced quality of work, when compared to human counterparts.

Task

Your task is to design a robot (or series of robots) to assist in the demolition of a large scale building. This robot could be multi-purpose or concentrate on a particular task such as the removal of steel frames, concrete walls/floors, glass, insulations or hazardous materials (e.g. asbestos).You should first investigate typical building materials used in large scale projects, and consider any hazards based on their prior use (e.g. an industrial plant which used hazardous chemicals, or a medical lab which used radioactive isotopes). You should select a specific installation, consider its unique problems, and develop a deconstruction plan using robots. In order to make this plan viable you should consider what benefits come from this approach compared to traditional methods, including safety, time and costs.

In addition you could also include the following; your design should consider how the value of the materials can be maintained, for possible re-use (selling on) after deconstruction, and how you would advise the building industry on changes to building design to facilitate the future use and re-use of materials using the efficient dismantling techniques employed by your robots.

Considerations

·       Fundamental concept

You should first identify the scope of your design, the building type/style, materials, hazards, access and control. For a large scale unique project a bespoke solution could be economic, or for a more generic build you should consider the ability to adapt the robot to a series of similar buildings.

·       Access

Consider access to the site as well as the height of the building. The location may mean you have limited air space on the four sides of the building, and the height of the building may require careful consideration of the removal of waste. If your initial concept is only adapted for a low rise building, try and consider how it could be changed to access multiple floors, and high rise blocks.

·   People

Although the robots will replace some of the labour required, there could still be a requirement for people to be on the site. Take into account how the two might interact and consider any health and safety measures that should be implemented.

·       Environmental Controls

Ideally, robots could work through the night, reducing deconstruction times. However, local authorities might restrict on site hours to reduce complaints about noise at night, particularly in residential areas. Could this be overcome using robots? How might you convince local authorities that robot use will reduce noise and lighting levels at night? Furthermore, how can you ensure your robots can work in all weather conditions?

·       Cost Benefit Analysis

Are there any disadvantages to using robots? Consider how you would demonstrate the value of the project to industry.

·       Future Proofing

The use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is becoming more common [2] and will require construction professions to produce an architectural model, a structural model and a services model. These are then linked together to provide a whole building solution. How might BIM technology affect the use of robots in the deconstruction process?

·       Sustainability

Consider how this solution is future-proofed, and minimizes any detriment to future generations [3].

References

[1] Robotic Industries Association, “Construction Robots Will Change the Industry Forever.” Robotics Online. https://www.robotics.org/blog-article.cfm/Construction-Robots-Will-Change-the-Industry-Forever/93 [Accessed: october 11, 2023)

[2] Autodesk, “Building & Designing Better with BIM.” Autodesk BIM Overview. https://www.autodesk.com/solutions/bim# [Accessed: October 11, 2023]

[3] The United Nations, “United Nations Sustainable Development.” Sustainable Development Goals. https://sdgs.un.org/ [Accessed: October 11, 2023)