Automated Construction in the ATLSS Integrated Building Systems

The AIBS (ATLSS Integrated Building Systems) program was developed to coordinate on-going research projects in automated construction and connections systems. The objective of this program is to design, fabricate, erect, and evaluate cost-effective building systems with a focus on providing a computer integrated approach to these activities. A family of structural systems, called ATLSS connections, are being developed with enhanced fabrication and erection characteristics. These ATLSS connections possess the capability of being erected by automated construction techniques. This feature minimizes human assistance during construction and will result in quicker, less expensive erection procedures in which workers are less susceptible to injury or fatalities. The technology for automated construction is heavily dependent on the use of Stewart platform cranes which are controlled by a system of six cables to allow precise movement in six directions. A scale-model Stewart platform crane has been constructed in the ATLSS laboratory to test the feasibility and limitations of automated construction with these connections.