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Construction Automation with iPad-Controlled Robot Upgrade Made Possible By Dusty Field's Printer

By Bernadette Salapare | Jan 26, 2024 12:55 AM EST

Construction robots are currently the most widely used equipment in the building sector, and professionals are constantly working to improve this technical breakthrough. Recently, Dusty's Field Printer, a company specializing in developing construction automated machinery, presented a new version of its robot capable of being operated using an iPad.

(Photo : TechCrunch/Dusty Robotics)

Dusty's Field Printer New Construction Robot

A completely new second-generation layout robot, the FieldPrinter 2, has been introduced by the Dusty FieldPrint Platform. This robot and the other components collaborate to develop an effective method for the general contractor and tradespeople to properly and thoroughly lay out digital models of the Building Information Model (BIM) on the deck. Incorporating automation into the workplace can be accomplished through personification, which comes in the form of a large set of friendly eyes. Since it is smaller than the first generation of robots, the little robot can navigate obstacles more effectively.

This allows it to 'shadow print' behind columns and prints closer to the edges of the page. With a broader print head and many onboard sensors to enhance directions, the 23-pound robot has a broader print head. Additionally, it can be operated by iPad, which successfully integrates digital information into building sites in the real world.

According to Tessa Lau, the founder and CEO of Tibco, the newly developed FieldPrint Platform allows for an uninterrupted transfer of data from the design process to the field and back to the trailer. Dusty reportedly offers a comprehensive software and hardware solution that is more than a robot. It is utilized by architects, designers, and field operators to achieve previously unattainable accuracy, communication, and efficiency levels.

Moreover, Dusty has also released the FieldPrint Platform in conjunction with the launch of FieldPrinter 2, designed to facilitate the incorporation of digital information into actual construction sites. Data may flow from the planning phase to the operational stage and back again through the platform's support services. Dusty's solutions are an integral component of an expanding automation trend within the construction industry, estimated to be worth $2 trillion in the United States alone. Nevertheless, Dusty is now forced to compete with other businesses, such as HP's SitePrint.

Also Read: Top Challenges the Construction Industry Will Face This 2024: From Supply Chain Problems to Recession

FieldPrinter 2 Features

The Dusty robot, which is of the second generation, increases productivity and efficiency on-site by its compact design and expanded functionalities such as:

Compact Form Factor

With its ability to precisely traverse confined spaces and skillfully move around obstacles, the FieldPrinter 2 delivers the most comprehensive layout.

Edge Print 

Provides the ability to print up to the site's edges, columns, and features.

Full Sensor Suite 

Printing behind columns is made possible via shadow printing, which allows for more excellent coverage in less time.

Curve Printing

This equipment makes it possible to detect edges, obstructions, and other items that could potentially hamper printing in real time.

Extra-wide Printhead (1" vs ½")

Creates smooth arcs of any radius, prints points, lines, letters, and curves at 300 dots per inch, and does it speedily and legibly.

Light Weight.

The FieldPrinter 2 weighs only 23 pounds (with the battery), making it a secure and convenient device to transfer and carry.

Power Hold 

Maintains operation without interruption while the battery is being updated.

iPad Interface

Reduces the complexity of the learning process and makes operations more efficient.

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