ABB Robotics and Simpliforge Creations have joined forces to advance 3D printing technologies in the Indian construction sector, aiming to accelerate construction processes for structures across various sectors. This collaboration harnesses ABB’s IRB6700 robots, featuring enhanced payload management, and Simpliforge’s proprietary software, enabling faster, more sustainable, and safer construction.
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is one of the global leaders in robotics and machine automation solutions. It offers a comprehensive and integrated portfolio that encompasses robots, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), and machine automation solutions, all orchestrated by value-creating software. The company contributes in helping businesses, irrespective of size and sector – spanning automotive, electronics, and logistics – enhance their resilience, flexibility, and efficiency.
ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is focused on supporting customers as they transition toward the connected and collaborative factory of the future. With a workforce of approximately 11,000 individuals across over 100 locations in about 53 countries, the business area is committed to driving innovation and excellence in the realm of robotics and automation.
Simpliforge Creations, on the other hand, is a comprehensive additive manufacturing solutions company, offering expertise in Technology Development, System Integration, and Service Solutions. The company provides complete solutions for Robotic 3D Printed Construction, encompassing Technology & Materials Development, Software and hardware, along with 3D printed Construction Services.
These services cater to various sectors, including residential, commercial, defense, and space applications. Simpliforge has achieved notable milestones, delivering India’s first and South Asia’s largest robotic arm 3D Printing systems, showcasing their leadership and innovation in the field.
India’s ongoing infrastructure development, including national highways and public facilities, has become a focal point for stimulating rapid growth. While construction planning and post-build stages have traditionally involved software, the physical construction process has remained a manual task.
ABB’s robots, integrated with Simpliforge’s operations, offer an end-to-end solution alongside conventional construction methods, providing a transformative approach to construction in the country. The technology is expected to contribute in India’s construction landscape, particularly in disaster-affected regions requiring rapid rehabilitation and infrastructure reinstatement.
The IRB6700 robots, known for their enhanced payload management, offer improved flexibility and efficiency, reducing supply chain costs, construction waste, and carbon footprints. In addition to automating construction processes, ABB’s robots have the advantage of a larger 3D print size to footprint ratio, reaching up to 8.5 meters. This feature, combined with easy operation and the ability to operate in wet and robust construction environments, positions these robots as an ideal choice for 3D printed construction projects.
Simpliforge’s CEO, Dhruv Gandhi, highlighted the company’s collaboration with ABB India as instrumental in accessing robust and localized technology that enhances operational efficiency. The proprietary software developed in conjunction with ABB’s RobotStudio® has enabled the creation of India’s first and South Asia’s largest robotic concrete 3D printer. This system demonstrates unprecedented accuracy, precision, and reproducibility, contributing to reduced reworking and quality control costs.
Subrata Karmakar, President of Robotics & Discrete Automation at ABB India, emphasized the significance of investing in technologies that enhance productivity and efficiency in India’s infrastructure growth. The collaboration with Simpliforge aligns with the advancements seen in the construction industry, introducing flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability into operations.
The collaboration’s potential extends to transforming the construction landscape across industrial, defense, commercial, and residential sectors, offering a dynamic solution for disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts. As India continues to experience rapid growth and development, innovative technologies like 3D printing in construction can play a pivotal role in meeting infrastructure demands efficiently.
Following the successful deployment of India’s first 3D-printed place of worship and the country’s first 3D-printed bridge, ABB Robotics and Simpliforge aim to continue pioneering advancements in 3D printing technologies for construction. By leveraging ABB’s hardware and software capabilities, the collaboration seeks to contribute to India’s evolving construction sector.
The collaboration is also set to provide sophisticated, safer, and more reliable 3D printing capabilities that support flexible manufacturing and design freedom. The robotic concrete 3D printer developed through this collaboration underscores the commitment to addressing India’s diverse housing needs through innovative and sustainable construction practices.
