Collaborative Robots For Resource-Adaptive Timber Construction Using Variable, Out-Of-Grade Timber Feedstocks

Project Description

This project will investigate and demonstrate the role of collaborative robotic systems (cobots) and mixed-reality (XR) assisted workflows in timber construction. The focus is on interfaces, which are the points of transition and coordination that often create inefficiencies or errors in construction. By targeting specific interface challenges, the project will develop proof-of-concept workflows in which cobots assist carpenters and construction workers in performing complex or high-risk tasks.

Objectives

The project is structured into three interlinked stages.

Stage 1: Collaborative Fabrication with Out of Grade Timber
Scope of works:

Integrate cobots into the fabrication of nail-laminated timber (NLT) products using out of grade feedstock.
Builds on existing QUT research into computational design and integrated digital workflows for robotic and cobotic fabrication and construction methods, as well as mixed-reality (XR) assisted workflows and UQ research into scanning and optimised placement of boards according to stiffness (MOE) and defect mapping
Demonstrate cobotic support in selection and placement of boards for cutting and arrangement into homogenised NLT beams with low structural variability.
Human carpenters will retain core construction tasks such as cutting and nailing, while the cobot handlescomplex tasks (selection of variable board stock; placement of variable cutting locations and orientation within NLT product).

Industry benefit:
This stage will enable the use of lower grade, underutilised timber resources in higher value time products suited for common residential framing applications.

Stage 2: Collaborative Assembly with Out of Grade Timber
Scope of works:

Integrate collaborative robots into the assembly of timber-framed structural systems using out of grade feedstock.
Builds on existing QUT research into computational design and integrated digital workflows for robotic and cobotic fabrication and construction methods, as well as mixed-reality (XR) assisted workflows and UQ research in inventory-constrained structural design of timber-framed structures using feedstock with variable geometric and mechanical properties.
Demonstrate robotic decision support in selecting placement of boards for specific structural requirements such as movingdefects away from connection zones in wall studs and construction of non-standardised timber-frame typologies.
Human carpenters will retain core construction tasks such as cutting, nailing, and fastening, while the robot provides adaptive decision making and support.

Industry benefit:
This stage will enable the use of non-graded timber feedstock in structural framing applications. The approach increases efficiency and reduces waste while ensuring that skilled trades remain central to the construction process.

Stage 3: Industry Demonstrator

Scope of works:
Deliver a proof-of-concept industry demonstrator (~2.4m x 3-6m footprint) to assess the feasibility of implementing collaborative robotic workflows for a range of robotic functions across site and fabrication interfaces. The industry demonstrator will integrate a CLT floor plate (existing), timber-framed wall elements (from Stage 2) and timber-framed NLT roof members (from Stage 1). The industry demonstrator will be used for an exhibition/showcase and industry workshop, targeted to truss and frame manufacturers, to present findings, demonstrate and discuss potential integration of cobotic systems in existing offsite timber prefabrication facilities or on-site contexts.

Industry benefit:
This stage will consolidate/promote learnings and engagement with potential end-users (truss and frame manufacturers). The industry demonstration will allow stakeholders to directly assess the value of collaborative robotic systems, understand potential productivity gains, and evaluate how cobots can best be used to support and augment existing skills and workflows.

Objectives/Deliverables

Proof-of-concept workflow for human-in-the-loop robotic fabrication of NLT roof members using out of grade feedstock. Physical prototype of NLT roof members using out of grade feedstock.
Proof-of-concept workflow for human-in-the-loop robotic assembly of timber-framed structural system using out of grade feedstock. Physical prototype of timber-framed structural system using out of grade feedstock.
Proof-of-concept industry demonstrator (~2.4m x 3-6m footprint). Exhibition and industry workshop.

Project Leader/s

Tim Schork

Project Leader; Chief Investigator

Queensland University of Technology

Project Staff

Research Assistant

Research Assistant Opportunity

Project Investigators

Tim Schork

Project Leader; Chief Investigator

Queensland University of Technology

Joe Gattas

Theme Leader - Innovative Solutions; Node Leader - Manufacturing Innovation & Value-Chain Innovation

The University of Queensland

Dan Luo

Node Leader - Value-Chain Innovation; Project Leader

The University of Queensland

Mateo Gutierrez

Partner Investigator; Executive Board Member

AKD Softwoods

Pratik Shrestha

Affiliate Investigator

Aurecon

Neil Logan

Partner Investigator

BVN Architecture

Project