Inside a warehouse near Edmonton’s airport, cutting-edge robotic arms are reshaping the construction industry. Ramtin Attar, CEO and co-founder of Promise Robotics believes his company’s AI-driven technology could be the breakthrough homebuilding desperately needs.
In this facility, four robotic arms, similar to those used in automobile manufacturing, construct walls, floors, and roofs of houses with precision. These robots, powered by artificial intelligence, interpret blueprints and make real-time decisions about cutting, nailing, and drilling—tasks traditionally performed by humans.
“They can dynamically determine the tools needed and the sequence of tasks to optimize the building process,” Attar explained.
Addressing Canada’s Housing Crisis
The construction industry in Canada faces significant challenges, including a shortage of skilled labor and an urgent need for affordable housing. With millions of new homes required by 2031, experts emphasize the need for innovation to boost productivity.
“Construction has been slower to adopt technology compared to other industries,” said Daeho Kim, a civil engineering expert in robotics.
Promise Robotics has risen to the challenge. Using “off-the-shelf” robotic arms and proprietary AI software, the company trains its machines to fabricate house components like walls, floors, and roofs. Unlike large prefab factories, Promise Robotics offers a portable and cost-effective solution, enabling homebuilders to set up temporary facilities near their projects.
The company claims its system can halve the typical construction timeline, reducing house-building time to just five months.
Attracting Attention Across Canada
Promise Robotics has already secured a builder client in Edmonton, drawing interest from over 20 developers nationwide. By using this technology, builders could potentially double their production rates while maintaining high-quality standards.
Robotics Beyond the Factory
Other companies are also exploring robotic solutions for construction. Toronto-based Horizon Legacy has developed Val 2.0, a robotic arm that operates as a portable 3D printer for concrete walls. The machine recently completed a 26-unit housing project in Ontario, offering better insulation and requiring a smaller crew than traditional methods.
Meanwhile, researchers at the University of British Columbia are working on converting conventional cranes and excavators into autonomous robots, signaling the next wave of construction innovation.
The Future of Construction
As robotics and AI become more integrated into homebuilding, these technologies offer hope for addressing Canada’s housing crisis. From faster project completion to enhanced efficiency, the adoption of robotics in construction promises to transform the industry.
“By embracing these advancements, we can not only solve domestic challenges but also position Canada as a global leader in construction technology,” Attar said.
Source: Swifteradio.com
