Net-Zero Design in Modular Construction (KTP)
Towards (digitalisation and) Net-Zero design in Modular construction (KTP)
Project Title: Towards (digitalisation and) Net-Zero design in Modular construction (KTP)
Alt.: Implementation of BIM And Lean Strategies to Achieve Net-Zero Carbon within the Off-Site Construction Sector
Project Description: This project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership between the University of Huddersfield and Actiform Limited, Mirfield
About Actiform:
Actiform is one of the leading manufacturers of off-site engineered buildings, providing a range of bespoke solutions to meet the requirements of their clients. Their current projects are focused within the Healthcare sector, although they have expertise within numerous sectors.
Identified research gap and industry challenge:
Construction is often seen as a low-innovation industry, with a poor track record in schedule and budget compliance, and industrial accidents. Nevertheless, off-site construction has been proposed to improve construction quality, reduce waste, and lower the carbon footprint. However, challenges remain in implementing digital strategies and lean processes effectively within off-site construction companies. The combined use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Lean is new and provides opportunities for learning and knowledge generation. Most companies are not yet exploiting integration to full potential, leading to missed opportunities. The implementation of BIM, Lean, and zero carbon synergies is evolving, and it is open to debate whether these techniques are "established" in design management and off-site construction. Empirical research reveals varied levels and scope of implementation, making the implementation of BIM, Lean, and zero carbon strategies a significant area where academic research can create and consolidate knowledge that is applicable in practice. The KTP will set an innovative example for the sector and advance knowledge in BIM/Lean/zero carbon processes.
Project aim:
This innovative and interdisciplinary research project combines expertise across architecture, civil engineering, and smart technologies. It aims to achieve digital transformation across the business, implementing new processes and technologies to support and enhance productivity whilst making significant steps towards net-zero and carbon neutrality.
Project objectives:
- To implement and embed Building Information Modelling (BIM) strategy
- To improve integration between design, planning, and construction
- To establish processes for evaluating, selecting, and procuring zero/low carbon materials
- To evaluate new energy storage and production alternatives and the efficient integration of these technologies into the product offer
Key outcomes of the project:
- Building Information Modelling (BIM): Improvement of the digital skills and processes within the business through the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM), aligned with process improvement strategies enabled through Lean.
- Carbon Footprint: Improvement to the carbon footprint of the organisation in terms of business operations and striving towards the manufacture of carbon neutral buildings.
- Material and Resources: Evaluation of resources; improved procurement processes for materials, reducing material wastage and research into new materials for Actiform to use within modular design and methods of construction (e.g. relevant accreditations to meet regulations, such as fire etc.)
- Automation: Automated, streamlined and/or enhanced processes in design and planning, leading to improved productivity.
- Smart Buildings: To become market leaders in intelligent buildings.
Research Team: Nwakaego Onyenokporo; Prof. Patricia Tzortzopoulos; Dr Sara Biscaya; Prof. Rakesh Mishra; Tamiris Capallero
Actiform Team: Nick Collington; Stefan Dransfield; Shellie O’Connor; Kat Collington.
Funding: Innovate UK and Actiform Limited
Start date: 01/11/2023 Expected Duration: 33 months