Sources: PulteGroup, Atlanta; CP staff
Leading home builder PulteGroup sees the potential of artificial intelligence and robotics technology applied to concrete block wall practice at its southwest Florida community, TerraWalk at Babcock Ranch. Testing work on a home engineered to robust Sunshine State codes, the builder partnered with Australia’s FBR Ltd., whose mobile Hadrian X system uses an advanced robotic arm to precisely place concrete masonry units on adhesives yielding bonds twice as strong as traditional mortar.
“This achievement shows PulteGroup is serious about intelligently leveraging innovation to drive greater efficiency in homebuilding,” says Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Matt Koart. “Our industry faces challenges when it comes to labor availability and the need to build more efficiently and sustainably. We see opportunities to integrate technologies that can improve construction quality and safety, while creating exceptional homes for our customers.”
“TerraWalk at Babcock Ranch serves as a proving ground for next-generation technologies,” adds PulteGroup Southwest Florida Division President Josh Graeve. “This initial test of FBR’s building system represents another step forward in our mission to make high-quality homes more affordable while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in residential construction.”
The Hadrian X demonstration is the latest groundbreaking initiative at Babcock Ranch, where PulteGroup’s Innovation Way living laboratory tests and refines emerging technologies and construction methods. Projects range from Ford F-150 Lightning power backup solutions to sustainable building practices and smart home automation.
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