Grant: Industrial Research Chairs

The pursuit of increased efficiency has motivated engineers to devise new or to improve existing processesthrough innovations in methods, technologies, and managerial approaches. In this respect, the search for newefficiencies in the field of building construction has led to the emergence of modularization, which in turn hascatalyzed the expansion of off-site construction. In this context, the Industrial Research Chair (IRC) in theIndustrialization of Building Construction contributes broadly to the research base, fundamental engineering,and scientific knowledge that will sustain the current trajectory toward the industrialization of buildingconstruction. Having been established in 2011, the Industrial Research Chair is seeking renewal for a secondterm, during which the following proposed objectives will be pursued: (1) improved productivity of factoryoperations through innovative manufacturing technologies; (2) optimization of design to minimize constructionwaste 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) occupationaland occupant-centric ergonomic application in modular construction; and (5) enhancement of sustainabilitycapitalizing on modular and offsite construction. The underlying motivation for the proposed research in thesecond term of the Chair is to move industry practice meaningfully toward true industrialization of theconstruction process. Existing technologies and manufacturing techniques will be further improved, bringingenvironmental, public and occupational health, economic, and social benefits to Canada. The focus on machinedevelopment and manufacturing will be a crucial component of delivering a made-in-Canada solution to theinherent deficiencies of conventional construction practice in North America. The research objectives willensure focused research yielding tangible results of practical benefit to the industry partners and to Canada. Theproposed program will also enable the University to play a leadership role in innovation, training, as well as inoccupational safety and environmental protection.