Page 19 - TRIMBLE PR REPORT - September 2024

Embracing the LEGO way with Paul Wallett, Regional Director of Trimble Solutions, Middle East – Intelligent Build.tech
Resembling LEGO bricks, modular construc on modules are engineered and designed to snap into place
fast and simply, o en made in the shape of a rectangular box. By ensuring that prefabricated
components fit together flawlessly, this approach lowers the complexity of building on-site. It supports
flexible design possibili es, just as LEGO allows for limitless crea vity. In this method, components can
be mixed and matched to develop customised structures that meet specific client demands while
simultaneously maintaining the efficiency of modular construc on.

How can this method be harnessed for environmental sustainability efforts?

Contrary to the conven onal construc on methods, which typically result in significant material waste,
the prefabrica on method produces minimal waste owing to its precise manufacturing procedures and
op mised material usage. Excess materials in the process could be recycled within the factory,
contribu ng to a circular economy. In addi on to using renewable energy sources and energy-efficient
prac ces, manufacturers that produce prefabricated components can recycle excess materials within the
facility, thereby promo ng a circular economy. The regulated environment in prefabrica on lowers
energy consump on associated with on-site construc on ac vi es.

Prefabrica on also minimises carbon footprint by avoiding the need for several raw material deliveries
to construc on sites, which reduces transporta on emissions. Rapid construc on mes mean fewer
machinery opera ons on-site, cu ng down carbon emissions even further. A regulated factory
environment improves worker safety by minimising the risk of accidents and injuries as compared to
tradi onal construc on sites. Furthermore, since on-site ac vi es are reduced, the method causes
lesser disrup on to surrounding communi es and ecosystems. This enhanced site safety and reduced
disrup on make prefabrica on an a rac ve choice for modern construc on projects.

Can you tell us a li le about how the LEGO approach is being u lised today?

A Miami-based startup company is currently revolu onising the construc on sector by developing a
novel method of building with real-life LEGO bricks. It resembles a real-life LEGO set with moulded
pieces that snap together to form the whole structure. The company combines repurposed glass fibres,
resin and stone to create a powerful new material that is stronger than concrete and capable of
withstanding a Category 5 hurricane. Buildings can be assembled far more quickly by simplifying
construc on into a kit similar to a LEGO set, lowering labour costs and energy consump on. A prime
example of this innova on is the use of such repurposed materials to construct a stackable, LEGO-like
block apartment building in Palm Springs.

Prefabrica on goes beyond just being a construc on method. It is rather a transforma ve approach that
meets the industry’s evolving needs for efficiency, sustainability and innova on. As technology con nues
to advance and evolve, prefabrica on is poised to play an even more significant role in shaping the built
environment.

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