We’ve recently written about a series of new building methods which could help to make the construction process swifter and more cost effective. So the Advantage team was intrigued to read today about Robert Gordon University’s involvement in a study into a construction method which would see joints manufactured by robots.

As reported by the Evening Express, this could lead to fewer delays and inaccuracies and less material waste.

Theo Dounas, from the university’s Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment, said:

“This proof-of-concept research will look at the process of designing a simple timber prototype house to address market needs.

“It is hoped that through this initial project, our solution could bring dramatic benefits not just to the Scottish housing market, but also to the construction market.

“We would then hope to develop a range of ideas and solutions, from logistics, to design, to the real testing of CLT joints, and formation of insulated composite panels.”

The Press and Journal explained that the researchers will undertake the venture in collaboration with the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) and Glulam Solutions Ltd, a timber-engineering firm based in Inverurie.

The process of building timber properties away from their construction site has not been widely explored in Scotland, but off-site fabrication is reckoned to offer major benefits by increasing quality and output of construction – while reducing cost and time.

Syd Birnie, managing director of Glulam Solutions, added:

“We are crying out for more innovation in the construction industry and we hope this is the first of many real advancements for timber-engineered building solutions.”

Thank you for reading. We’ll be back soon with our take on the latest construction news.

Related feature on innovation in construction: The Advantage blog on Coventry’s prefab experiment.