How new technology can benefit the construction industry

The Arkinova Business Generator is to hold a conference day on the design and construction of tomorrow on 19 June. The programme will feature three round tables moderated by experts from all over France, as well as demonstrations of innovative equipment.

Organised by the NOBATEK/INEF4 centre for technology resources, the CREAHd built-environment research accelerator and the Arkinova Business Generator – all based at the Arkinova Technology Park – the event will examine the development of new technologies and how they are being integrated into manufacturing processes from the design stage of construction projects. The aim is to determine how we can already incorporate the culture of digitalisation in manufacturing but also identify future issues for development.

For example, the use of robotics in additive manufacturing or 3D printing but also on building sites, where robots are transforming construction trades. The use of drones is becoming more widespread, the Internet of Things is opening up new perspectives, and the digital transformation of the construction is well underway.

With the advent of BIM (building information modelling) as well, working methods for construction projects can now be designed around a digital template, which offers numerous advantages. Virtual reality, too, is opening up new areas for development.

Following an introductory session moderated by the day’s mentor, the architect Francesco Cingolani, “R-evolution – Design and construction: a relationship ripe for re-invention?” will elaborate on these subjects via three round tables:

·       “Design and construction: towards a more cohesive practice” – from 11 am to 12.30 pm. This first round table will start by examining the relationship between design and industry, and its impact on design/manufacturing methods, before going on to discuss the convergence between BIM and computational design, which is set to strengthen the connection between design and manufacturing.

·       “Matching the tool to the project, rather than the project to the tool” – from 2 pm to 3.30 pm. The second round table will look at both robotics in construction and the use of new technologies in “model pavilions”, discussing the application of such innovations to the real world.

·       “Evolving skills, occupations and training?” – from 4 pm to 5.30 pm. Developing training that is adapted to new technologies will be the subject of the third round table.

Alongside the round tables, there will be demonstrations of digital tools at the Arkinova Business Generator site, including cable-driven robots for 3D printing processes, milling operations carried out by robots, exoskeleton-robot presentations, live drone flights, etc.

A detailed programme and information on how to register can be found on the event website: www.r-evolution.tech