ABB Robotics and AUAR Partner to Pioneer Sustainable Construction with Climate-Neutral Research Facility

The construction industry is evolving rapidly. ABB Robotics and AUAR, a leader in construction technology, are driving this change. Their latest project, “ConstrucThor,” is a cutting-edge research facility in Belgium. It showcases sustainable building practices. By merging AUAR’s micro-factory technology with ABB’s advanced robotics, this initiative redefines construction. Plus, it prioritizes environmental sustainability. In this article, we dive into the details of this exciting collaboration.

Building a Greener Future with ConstrucThor

ConstrucThor sits in Genk, Belgium, at the OpenThor Living Lab. It’s more than a building—it’s a vision. This climate-neutral facility tests energy-efficient infrastructure. It also explores eco-friendly materials. AUAR’s micro-factories and ABB’s robotic automation power the project. Together, they create sustainable solutions. Additionally, they reduce environmental harm and support a healthier planet.

Solving Construction Challenges with Automation

The construction sector faces big hurdles. For example, it generates 40% of global CO2 emissions. It also lacks skilled workers and efficiency. Craig McDonnell, Managing Director at ABB Robotics, sees a solution. Robotic automation cuts waste and speeds up processes. As a result, construction becomes faster and cleaner. This shift is vital for a sustainable future.

A Collaborative Hub for Climate-Neutral Research

ConstrucThor goes beyond technology. It fosters collaboration too. Partners like KU Leuven University and industry leaders join forces here. The facility offers a large-scale testing space. Researchers develop climate-neutral strategies. Tim Verhetsel, project coordinator at KU Leuven, highlights circular practices. For instance, recycled wood builds modular walls. This blends robotics with sustainable design, pushing construction forward.

Micro-Factories: The Future of Home Building

AUAR’s robotic mobile micro-factories are central to this effort. These compact units craft timber panels for walls, floors, and roofs. ABB’s AI-equipped robots power them. Remarkably, one micro-factory can build a home’s core in under 12 hours. This speed reduces waste and ensures quality. Consequently, micro-factories transform affordable, sustainable housing.

Bringing Construction Closer to Home

AUAR and ABB aim to expand globally. They’re building a network of local micro-factories. Producing homes near their sites cuts transportation emissions. It also simplifies assembly. Already, micro-factories operate in the UK, Belgium, and the US—including two in the Midwest. This proves local production meets housing needs efficiently and sustainably.

Expanding the Vision for Sustainable Living

The project keeps growing. AUAR plans to reach 10 micro-factory locations by next year. Seven new partners will join across Europe and North America. Mollie Claypool, AUAR’s Co-Founder and CEO, is proud of ConstrucThor. She believes this model cuts costs, time, and carbon footprints. Ultimately, it will shape sustainable communities worldwide.

This partnership between ABB Robotics and AUAR is a bold leap forward. ConstrucThor stands as a real-world example. Their work in automation and sustainability offers a roadmap. It shows how homes can be built smarter, faster, and greener.