Grant: Collaborative Research and Development Grants

The demand for effective production methods is exponentially increasing, and, to meet this demand, many industry professionals seek to industrialize the building construction process. The aim of the proposed research is to allow the industry partner to increase the productivity of their design and construction phase, and by improving quality control, as well as overcoming current challenges within the manufacturing process. The proposed methodology is divided into nine major tasks. In the design phase, the ultimate goal is to move from the current 2D practice to full-capacity BIM. A time study will then be performed on the fabrication of a number of modules in order to quantify resource requirements for component fabrication at each station in order to extract a resource allocation plan from the BIM model; this measure will increase accuracy in budget planning. In the manufacturing phase, challenges exist with the current production process. A time study and analysis are required to identify the deficiencies and the potential corresponding improvements to the current state. In terms of productivity and the physical demands of tasks on production line personnel, an investigation of automated machinery is vital in order to replace the current highly labour-intensive operations. Another goal is to develop optimal scheduling for manufacturing, transportation, and assembly of modules. Another task will be to develop a simulation visualization model of the factory production line that visualizes the manufacturing process in order to evaluate future-state improvements. This study aims to develop tools and techniques which will serve as a handbook for general use in the field of modular manufacturing. Ultimately, developing an efficient and cost-effective construction manufacturing system is expected to contribute to industry by decreasing production costs and time, extending the construction season, and increasing quality and durability. The successful completion of this research will ultimately translate to the advancement of Canada's construction industry. By promoting sustainable materials, designs, and practices, the proposed study will also serve to curtail the GHG emissions and material waste associated with construction.