Automatic detailing in prefabrication offers sustainable development in precast industry. The use of precast concrete elements is popular due to their speed of installation, quality control and reduction in on-site construction time. Automatic detailing of concrete elements and the detailing process will enhance the design, detailing and delivery process. However, the detailing of prefabricated concrete elements remains a time-consuming and error-prone task, which can result in costly delays and construction defects.
In Finland, there are various precast concrete detailing processes followed by different companies depending on the size, budget and scope of the project. The design and detailing of elements are an iterative process that required the adoption of various design changes in different phases of project development. The main purpose of this thesis is to investigate the detailing process and challenges of precast concrete elements of different companies and prepare a matrix that can distinguish the pros and cons of each process. Challenges and possibilities for automation are analysed in this thesis.
The Design Science Research method is followed in this thesis. All the process of research, finding, and analysis is documented step by step. Along with the precast element detailing process, the detailing challenges are detected, tested, and validated. The possibilities of automation during design of residential building are also well discussed. Interviews are conducted with professionals and experts from various companies in Finland. Construction site visits were arranged to find the real challenges during the construction phase.
The development of detailing process’s matrix is a promising solution to identify the best detailing process that significantly reduces the detailing time and improves accuracy. The method is an integrated part of BIM design process and can help to reduce errors and delays in construction.
