Grant: Industrial Research Chairs

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.