NSERC Industrial Research Chair in the industrialization of building construction

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The pursuit of increased efficiency has motivated engineers to devise new or to improve existing processes through innovations in methods, technologies, and managerial approaches. In this respect, the search for new efficiencies in the field of building construction has led to the emergence of modularization, which in turn has catalyzed the expansion of off-site construction. In this context, the Industrial Research Chair (IRC) in the Industrialization of Building Construction contributes broadly to the research base, fundamental engineering, and scientific knowledge that will sustain the current trajectory toward the industrialization of building construction. Having been established in 2011, the Industrial Research Chair is seeking renewal for a second term, during which the following proposed objectives will be pursued: (1) improved productivity of factory operations through innovative manufacturing technologies; (2) optimization of design to minimize construction waste and optimize material usage; (3) development of manufacturing-centric building information modelling (BIM) to improve design automation, drafting, quantity takeoff, and minimize process waste; (4) occupational and occupant-centric ergonomic application in modular construction; and (5) enhancement of sustainability capitalizing on modular and offsite construction. The underlying motivation for the proposed research in the second term of the Chair is to move industry practice meaningfully toward true industrialization of the construction process. Existing technologies and manufacturing techniques will be further improved, bringing environmental, public and occupational health, economic, and social benefits to Canada. The focus on machine development and manufacturing will be a crucial component of delivering a made-in-Canada solution to the inherent deficiencies of conventional construction practice in North America. The research objectives will ensure focused research yielding tangible results of practical benefit to the industry partners and to Canada. The proposed program will also enable the University to play a leadership role in innovation, training, as well as in occupational safety and environmental protection.