Modular construction and building performance
Developing prefabricated processes for fast, efficient
and cost-effective construction of new buildings.
Our research underpins a major shift in Australia’s construction industry towards automated, off-site manufacturing and prefabricated construction of new buildings.
We develop precision designs and high performance materials for prefabricated components. We incorporate AI and robotics to create processes that can halve construction times and reduce costs by up to 40 per cent. This allows for the faster delivery of affordable housing, commercial buildings and other infrastructure.
We integrate sustainability into our processes to reduce waste and emissions. This includes novel and recycled materials incorporated into new high-performing building materials.
Areas of focus
- Innovative systems for prefabricated construction
- Optimised manufacturing and on-site construction processes
- Portable housing, including low-cost and emergency accommodation
- Use of recycled materials in prefabricated building components
- Sensor technologies in construction to improve safety
- Lightweight and high-performance materials
- High-performance and multi-functional building systems
- Innovative connection systems
Capabilities
- Advanced materials and novel material design
- Structural testing of prefabricated materials and assembled structures
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic technology in manufacturing
- Integrated Digital Design for Manufacturing Assembly (DfMA) framework
Collaborators
- Asia-Pacific Research Network for Resilient and Affordable Housing
- Building 4.0 Cooperative Research Centre
Key contact
Timelapse: Prefab classrooms
Professor Tuan Ngo and his team collaborated with the Victoria School Building Authority (VSBA) and Sensum on the manufacture and construction of Southmoor Primary School in Victoria.
The future is prefabricated
Prefabrication is commonly used in much of Europe. It is a more environmentally sustainable and socially beneficial way to build and it’s taking off in Australia.
