Application of smart factory concepts in panelized construction manufacturing

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ACQBUILT Inc., a leading panelized construction company in Canada, has been actively investing andparticipating in research projects with the University of Alberta in recent years. The principal investigator, hassuccessfully completed several research projects with ACQBUILT encompassing productivity improvements,ergonomics analysis, lean manufacturing, and applications of information technology (e.g., RFID). The RFIDproject was the first known implementation of RFID technology in panelized construction. The factory layoutand ergonomics studies are still in progress. The PI and the industry partner for this proposed project haveidentified a shortage of information and communication technology in panelized construction, as well as theneed for application of the smart factory concept to improve the overall panelized construction process. Assuch, through this project the team is seeking to gain a more comprehensive understanding of, and toimplement improvements to, current practice in panelized construction. The primary objective of this researchis to improve panelized construction operation, including both on and offsite activities, by applying SmartFactory concepts. It will encompass (1) a review of current practice and time study for logistics and on-siteassembly; (2) time study of logistics and on-site assembly; (3) collection of live data stream using barcodetechnology; (4) application of artificial intelligence in logistics decision making; (5) visualization of logisticsdata using web application; (6) application of projection-based augmented reality in panel manufacturing; and(7) development of web-based construction site logistics planning application. This project will enhanceindustry practice by providing a guideline for applying the Smart Factory concept, providing an economical andsimple intelligent construction management system, and opening of new avenues for research in offsiteconstruction. The proposed research can be expected to benefit Canada more broadly in terms of improvedefficiency in the panelized construction sector; improved housing affordability; reduced environmental impactof the construction process; and job growth in the construction manufacturing sector