In the constantly evolving construction industry, prefabricated buildings stand out and redefine our understanding and implementation of construction projects. But what exactly makes it a smarter solution in the present? Let’s delve deeper into the key points.
Prefabricated buildings (referred to as “prefabricated buildings”) are a form of construction in which building components are first manufactured in a controlled factory environment and then transported to the construction site for assembly. The components cover wall panels, beams and columns, and even the entire room module. Unlike traditional on-site construction where everything is built from scratch on site, prefabricated buildings break down the process into two major stages: off-site prefabrication and on-site assembly. This fundamental difference lays the foundation for its intelligent advantage.
Intelligence in the production process: precision at the factory end
（1） The integration of digital design and manufacturing collaborative building information modeling (BIM) technology has brought about changes. In the design phase, create a 3D digital model of the entire building, which not only visually presents the structure, but also accurately breaks down the building into individual components. For example, when designing prefabricated houses, BIM can determine the size, material, and even installation sequence of each wall panel, beam, and column. At the manufacturing end, this digital model is the blueprint. The numerical control (NC) equipment in the factory produces components based on model data, and the key dimension error can be controlled within a few millimeters, which is a precision that traditional on-site construction relying on manual labor cannot achieve. In this way, the components can be seamlessly assembled on site, reducing rework and delays.
（2） Factories that produce prefabricated components through automated production processes are becoming increasingly automated. Taking the production of precast concrete slabs as an example, the robotic arm will accurately cut and bend the steel bars according to the BIM model; Next, the automated system pours concrete to ensure even distribution and proper vibration; Afterwards, the components enter the automated curing room, where temperature and humidity are precisely controlled to ensure the strength and durability of the concrete. Compared to traditional on-site pouring, which is heavily affected by weather, heavily reliant on manual labor, and experiences significant quality fluctuations, factory automation has higher production efficiency and better consistency. It can also significantly shorten component production time and reduce material waste.
Intelligent construction process: efficient on-site assembly
（1） Modular rapid assembly of prefabricated components is like giant building blocks. After being transported to the construction site, it can be quickly assembled with the help of cranes and professional connection technology. For example, building a multi story prefabricated apartment building with insulation and wiring wall panels, connected with grouting sleeves, can ensure structural stability and is simple and fast. Data shows that for buildings of the same scale, the construction period of prefabricated buildings is 30% -50% shorter than that of traditional buildings. This has significant advantages for projects with tight deadlines, such as emergency housing and commercial projects.
（2） Intelligent construction management of prefabricated construction sites has also become more intelligent due to the Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile applications. Components can be equipped with sensors for real-time monitoring of position, status, and installation progress. The project manager can access data and remotely supervise construction with their mobile phone. If there is a delay in the transportation or installation of components, corrective measures can be taken immediately to reduce construction delays and errors, making the construction process more efficient and predictable.
Quality and Safety Assurance
（1）The factory produces prefabricated components with stable component quality, controllable environment, and strict monitoring of temperature, humidity, and production processes. Like prefabricated concrete components, factory inspections are more comprehensive than on-site inspections, resulting in higher and more stable component quality, enhancing the overall structural safety of buildings.
（2）Construction safety improvement: A large amount of work is completed in the factory, mainly for assembly on site, reducing high-altitude operations and dangerous processes (such as handling heavy materials under unstable conditions). There has been a significant reduction in safety accidents such as falls and material handling, making it safer for workers.
Prefabricated buildings, with the advancement of production and construction technology, solve industry pain points such as environmental protection, quality, and safety, integrate into intelligent buildings and urban ecology, and become a more intelligent building solution today. Despite challenges such as technical standards and market awareness, continuous innovation and application expansion make the future full of hope. With development, prefabricated buildings will continue to reshape the construction industry, providing more efficient, sustainable, and intelligent building choices for various needs.
