As such, there’s going to be quite a distinct focus on looking at some of the new technologies and working out whether they are actually going to be suitable in another fifty years time..

TCN+ is focused on shaping the future of construction by tackling problems that have plagued the industry for years: how to take advantage of digital opportunities, solve productivity issues, move to a manufacturing mindset, and cut carbon through energy efficient buildings.. Over the last few years, TCN+ has invested over £1 million pounds of funding into 14 innovative research projects.From digital twin initiatives to the evaluation of business models, the projects look to inform future practice and policy.

When choosing who to fund, the TCN+ team sought projects targeting the construction industry’s pain points, as well as programs showing innovative potential.Ideas addressing small business and regional initiatives were particularly welcomed, as the team were keen to support lesser known voices outside of the big firms.Some of the projects chosen were as follows:.

Transitioning to an automated construction supply chain: future business model innovation for SMEs.: This compelling project, led by The University of Reading, explored the opportunities and constraints for SMEs in the adoption of robotics and automation.

The work explored limitations posed by current business models and the changes that would be necessary to move towards automation of the supply chain, and the wider adoption of technology.. Design Optimisation and Prototyping for Affordable Rural Housing.

: Robert Gordon University in Scotland was selected for this project, focused.As well as the physical components, Ikea have also created their own ecosystem..

So, while there is a ‘kit of parts’ that includes components common to lots of different pieces of furniture (fittings, hinges, drawer bases and sides, dimensional grids etc.), the process has also been highly standardised: the format of the instruction book is always the same, and you only ever need a limited selection of common tools.. Ikea also have their own configurator for kitchens, ‘3D Kitchen Planner’, which allows users to create a 3D model which generates a list of components and a price.

Or you can book an appointment with an Ikea specialist who will help you decide on the right kitchen and layout and create the model for you..There are now a number of companies such as.