Robots nimbly weave steel mesh to build houses

Construction robots skillfully weave steel mesh to make concrete molds to build smart homes using 3D printing technology in Switzerland.

Construction robots take on the task of weaving steel in a smart home project. Video: Reuters.

Researchers at ETH Zurich University in Switzerland used digital technology to design and plan the construction of a three-story DFAB house, with most of the construction work being done by robotic systems and 3D printing technology, Reuters reported on July 24.

According to the developers, this is the first house in the world that has witnessed the combination of many types of techniques. The two-meter-tall construction robot is capable of weaving steel mesh directly on the site to make concrete molds according to the design.

"Previously we had to build concrete houses by creating molds before pouring the concrete from above. Now robots directly weave metal mesh to make molds and increase the strength of this concrete structure," said Matthias Kohler, founding director of the National Center of Competence in Research (NCCR).

The grid-mould method meets the future need for sustainable housing solutions without the waste of traditional molds. A special concrete mix is ​​poured into a double-layer curved steel grid, preventing spillage. A large 3D printer prints the ceiling panels while the two upper floors are built from wood by a robotic system.

The 200-square-meter DFAB, scheduled for completion before summer 2018, will test new housing and energy techniques in real-world conditions to help scientists create more sustainable and efficient buildings.

According to VNE