MODULAR CONSTRUCTION
THE SYNERGY OF MODULAR CONSTRUCTION AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES By Dr Ehsan Noroozinejad Farsangi1 & Dr Parisa Ziaesaeidi2 1 Urban Transformation Research Centre, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia 2 Department of Architecture, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
Australia's housing sector faces a pressing crisis, marked by skyrocketing prices and a shortage of affordable homes. This challenge calls for innovative solutions, and modular housing emerges as a beacon of hope. Unlike traditional construction methods, modular housing involves prefabricating components in a controlled factory setting and then assembling them on-site. This approach promises not only to alleviate the housing shortage but also to revolutionise the construction industry. Emerging technologies play a pivotal role in this transformation. By integrating advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), modular housing can leapfrog traditional limitations. These technologies enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability of modular construction processes, positioning them as a key solution in addressing Australia's housing challenges. This synergy of modular housing and emerging technologies could be the linchpin in solving the housing crisis, reshaping the landscape of Australian urban and rural habitats.
32 Construction Engineering Australia • January 2024
MODULAR HOUSING: A STRATEGIC RESPONSE TO THE HOUSING CRISIS Modular housing stands at the forefront of addressing Australia's housing crisis. This innovative approach is tailored to meet the unique challenges of the Australian housing market. Modular construction's speed is one of its greatest assets; homes can be built in significantly less time compared to traditional methods, rapidly addressing the urgent need for housing. Cost-effectiveness is another hallmark of modular housing. By streamlining the construction process and minimising on-
site labour, costs are substantially reduced. Furthermore, the sustainability of modular construction, with its reduced waste and efficient use of resources, aligns well with environmental concerns and the growing demand for green housing solutions. Modular housing's scalability is particularly noteworthy – it offers versatile solutions for both urban and rural settings, accommodating diverse architectural styles and community needs. This adaptability makes modular construction not just a stopgap but a sustainable long-term solution to Australia's housing challenges.