Session 2.2
The Robot Revolution: The Future in Architecture and Construction
Synopsis:
A series of uncovered potentials from the so-called ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ in the building industry comes not from the innovation but from the application of the many emerging technologies. During his research with the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, Ivan had the unique experience of visiting and interviewing some of these companies throughout Europe that have managed to uncover some of these potentials.
Learning Objectives:
1. Applied research on advanced fabrication methodologies in Europe.
2. Alternative project workflows.
3. Modern day project management
Body:
A series of technologies within the construction industry have been building and amplifying on one another during the last years – that is no secret to most of us, but has the building sector seen a successful amount of business models arising as a product of these ground-breaking technologies?
Under auspices from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the German Chanceller, Dr. Angela Merkel, Ivan conducted design research in Germany on advanced fabrication methodologies with a focus on robotics applied in Architecture and Construction. His exploration focused in the architects, designers and engineers creating breakthroughs on new paths for construction delivery with the aid of robotics, 3d printers, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Machinery, among other new tools.
As an outcome of Ivan’s Alexander von Humboldt German Chancellor Fellowship, a series of case studies were made on promising companies in Germany and in Europe that have managed to effectively adapt their business models to the endless possibilities of the digital revolution. These case studies will be covered in detail during the presentation, covering some of the visits to the different businesses as well as conversations with their respective Founders and Management personnel.
The session material to be presented supported a series of reports by the World Economic Forum report ‘The Future of Construction’ published in 2017.