3-D Graphical Visualization for Construction Automation

The availability of low-cost, high performance computers that are capable of real-time 3-D graphic simulation has lead to a plethora of applications in the construction industry. This technology is particularly beneficial in the design and simulation of automated construction systems. The expense of physically constructing and implementing a full-scale prototype automated construction systems has been a prohibitive factor in significant progress in this area. Computer hardware and software technologies that can perform real-time 3-D graphical simulation and visualization afford a tool that allows investigation and visual demonstration of conceptual and prototype designs, without the related expense of physical prototype construction. This paper overviews the application of 3-D graphical simulation and visualization and construction automation research and development and presents a study to apply 3-D graphical simulation in the development of a prototype automated push-up gantry robot system for automated construction. The investigation demonstrates the use of 3-D Graphical simulation as both a communication and investigative tool for proof-of-concept studies in the development of automated construction systems to demonstrate the feasibility of the push-up gantry automated construction system concept. Key-Words: Construction automation, robotic construction, 3D graphical simulation