IronBOT: A Breakthrough Solution to Prevent Construction Accidents During Rebar Installation

Since it involves manual labor, the construction sector is vulnerable to a wide variety of incidents that can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. As a result, Advanced Construction Robotics recently brought IronBOT, the company's second robot capable of installing a rebar that prevents construction accidents.

(Photo : Pexels/Anıl Karakaya)

Innovations of Advanced Construction Robotics

ConExpo, the leading conference for construction professionals in North America, was held in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Advanced Construction Robotics (ACR) announced the introducing of its second product, IronBOT. This system is designed to supplement construction crews by lifting, carrying, and positioning bundles of rebar weighing up to 5,000 pounds in either a transverse or longitudinal orientation, eliminating the need for crew personnel to engage in heavy lifting. During rebar installation, this powerful BOT Bundle may often deliver schedule savings of as much as 50% when IronBOT is joined with TyBOT, the company's rebar-tying robot.

In February, ronBOT and Shelby Erectors effectively concluded their inaugural project on the Port St. Lucie West Boulevard Bridge in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Initially, the rebar installation was anticipated to take 14 days to complete. Nevertheless, supplementing Shelby's crew with the BOT Bundle made achieving the same level of productivity in seven days possible.

Accordingly, even when it is raining, IronBOT can function throughout the day and night. The robot allows workers to avoid rebar installations, which not only protects them but also frees them up to perform more complex jobs on the construction site. This robot has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry due to its adaptable design, which allows it to function on virtually any building site and can be installed in a short amount of time.

Moreover, IronBOT does not require pre-programming, pre-mapping, calibration, or BIM input. The company asserted that once it arrives at the location, it can start functioning anywhere from four to eight hours later. Additionally, it arranges rebar in accordance with the spacing specifications provided by the client.

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Companies that Currently Provide BOT Bundle Solutions

Following the recently introduced Certified Innovator Programme, ACR has announced that Brayman Construction and Advantage Steel & Construction are the only contractors currently certified to offer the BOT Bundle solution. Alongside the BOT Bundle, Certified Innovators employ specialized personnel who have completed practical training on optimizing operations and integrating the technology into their installation rates. Zach Rosswog, General Manager of Advantage Steel and Construction, expressed his team's excitement at the prospect of working together to demonstrate to the construction sector how implementing robots on an organizational and cultural level may result in outcomes that are impossible to deny.

In addition, the Vice President of Heavy Civil at Brayman Construction Corporation, Tim Taylor, stated that the organization is approaching construction differently due to technological advancements. This makes it easier for contractors to deal with the increased demand and the dwindling labor supply. As mentioned, combining this technology with an inventive attitude can increase their productivity, efficiency, and safety. Being the first Certified Innovator is reportedly a source of pride for them, and they intend to continue collaborating with ACR to integrate technology into our company's distinctive personality.

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