ROBOTS BUILDING HOMES: AUTOMATION IN PREFABRICATED WALL ASSEMBLY

The construction of prefabricated homes has experienced significant advances thanks to the integration of industrial robotics and automation. A notable example is the collaboration between Rehkemper & Son and SCADAware, which implemented an innovative solution to optimize the wall assembly process in prefabricated homes.

The manufacturing process of these homes is divided into two main stages. First, studs and wooden beams are cut and assembled to form the basic structure of walls, roofs, and floor trusses. Then, oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing is applied to the pre-assembled walls, securing the panels to the frame and cutting spaces for windows and doors. These parts are transported to the construction site, where they are assembled to form the final structure.

The implementation of four Kawasaki BX250L robots, mounted on Güdel TrackMotion Floor-3 rails, has allowed the automation of critical tasks in this process. These robots precisely handle the heavy OSB panels, attach them to the wall frames, and cut openings for windows and doors. The custom software developed by SCADAware guides the robots in the exact placement of nails and necessary cuts, improving efficiency and precision in production.

One of the most significant challenges in this process is the imprecise nature of wood, which can be warped and make it difficult to locate the exact position of studs hidden under the OSB panels. Rick Caldwell, president of SCADAware, highlights the importance of a robotic solution that ensures precision in panel attachment, avoiding errors that could compromise construction quality.

Automation in wall assembly for prefabricated homes not only increases efficiency and reduces dependence on human labor but also improves the quality and consistency of the final product. As the construction industry adopts these advanced technologies, greater productivity and the ability to meet the growing demand for affordable and high-quality housing are expected.

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