COBOD unveils first multifunctional construction robot

The multifunctional construction robot integrates a vertical telescopic unit and a robotic arm designed for shotcreting. Image: COBOD

Built on COBOD’s 3D construction printing technology, the jointly developed system by COBOD and Institute for Structural Design (ITE) integrates a telescopic vertical extension unit with a robotic arm that enables the Shotcrete 3D Printing Process (SC3DP).

Shotcrete is used to construct complex concrete structures like tunnels, swimming pools, retaining walls, and to reinforce concrete structures. However, the telescopic tool is not limited to shotcrete applications – multiple other tools can also be mounted onto the vertical telescopic unit. The vertical telescopic unit is mounted between two X-axes on a COBOD BOD2 3D construction printer.

The robot was demonstrated at the opening of the Digital Construction Site at TU Braunschweig, a public university in Germany.

TU Braunschweig intends to use the system to produce digitally fabricated reinforced concrete structures with high surface quality and geometric freedom. Either the concrete is built up first and then the reinforcement is inserted, or the reinforcement has a pre-fabricated shape and the mesh is shotcreted from both sides. Additionally, the robotic arm can be equipped with sanding equipment to finish the surfaces.

“3D printing enables automated, digitally controlled processes of simple as well as very complex tasks, like the fabrication of reinforced double curved walls,” said Professor Harald Kloft for Structural Design at ITE.

“The ability to make complex, individualised, material efficient and low waste construction solutions makes 3D printing ideal for the construction industry, as it brings together economic, environmental and social aspects, such as the reduction of physical stress.”

With a dynamic vertical range of 3m of the telescopic unit, the robotic arm can fully reach and manipulate an already printed wall 3m below the X-axis. COBOD emphasises that a variety of tools can be mounted on the new robotic arm, such as a paint spray gun, insulation tool, sanding equipment and more, turning the 3D construction printer into a multifunctional construction robot capable of much more than just the printing of the walls.