A Mobile System for the On-Site Assembly of Timber Frame Components: The Development of an Agile, Low-Cost Alternative to Offsite Prefabrication

Stuart Gee,Andre Brown

doi:10.3390/su14020651

Stuart Gee, Andre Brown

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020651

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Abstract

Prefabricated timber component-based systems are the most prevalent industrialised system used to build housing. Along with many other countries, the UK has invested in different types of factory-based prefabrication systems as a means of increasing productivity and enhancing quality. In more recent decades, prefabrication has become part of a series of ‘modern methods of construction’ employed for, and aimed at, delivering sustainable and efficient construction. However, certain pragmatic issues remain. The industry is cyclical, and during periods of declining resources, skills and technical development can be lost. Additionally, factory-based prefabrication requires substantial initial investment and an appropriate local workforce. To help address these issues, this paper presents the concept of an alternative method of production and assembly that takes a different approach to traditional industrialised systems that involve large investments and fixed-location factories. The proposition presented in this paper is that it is possible to design and develop a small, low cost, portable micro-factory that can be taken to a temporary location or construction site, where it can then be used to construct prefabricated closed panels. We describe the development of a working prototype, effectively a micro-factory, along with its potential advantages over a fixed facility.

Highlights

The research presented here addresses particular challenges facing the construction industry
Part this work responds to ideas that have led to the development of mobile factory systems in other areas of the economy
On-site assembly, enabling the tasks and processes involved in the assembly of struc4

Summary

Introduction

The research presented here addresses particular challenges facing the construction industry. We make particular reference to the UK construction industry there is similar potential for application of the prototype system that we have developed internationally. Part this work responds to ideas that have led to the development of mobile factory systems in other areas of the economy. Examples of such approaches include small units to produce 3D printed components, computer numerical control machines used in on-site component preparation, and more generally, the concept of ‘flying’ factories. Our mobile factory concept has been evaluated through the design and development of a fully working prototype. The prototype showed that it is possible to assemble large-format closed timber panels using the mobile system

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