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Introducing Innovative Bricklaying Tools:
In the realm of modern construction, bricklaying evolves with cutting-edge technology and precision. From 3D printed bricks pushing design boundaries to robotic bricklayers revolutionizing efficiency, the landscape of bricklaying is rapidly transforming. Innovative tools like the Smart Trowel redefine craftsmanship, enhancing accuracy and reducing rework. Electric mortar mixers streamline the mixing process, while digital leveling systems provide real-time measurements with unmatched precision.
As the construction industry embraces innovation, these advanced bricklaying tools pave the way for smarter, faster, and more precise building practices, setting new standards of excellence in construction.
3D printed brick
3D printed brick forms are customizable molds that can be used to create bricks of various shapes and sizes. These molds can be created using 3D printing technology and can be used with any type of clay or concrete to mass-produce bricks. The molds can be fully customized to create unique designs and shapes, expanding the possibilities of bricklaying.
When considering 3D printed bricks, there are several factors to consider when making a purchase or evaluating the quality of the bricks:
Material
The choice of material can greatly impact the strength, durability, and compatibility with traditional LEGO bricks. PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a common material used for 3D printing, but it may not be as strong as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) used in LEGO bricks.
Print precision
3D printed bricks may not have the same level of precision as traditional LEGO bricks, which can affect their compatibility and fit.
Wall thickness
3D printed bricks often have thicker walls than LEGO bricks, which can make them less stable and more difficult to connect
Printing technology
Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is commonly used for 3D printing, but it may not be as accurate as injection molding. Stereolithography (SLA) can provide higher accuracy but may require more expensive materials
Robotic bricklayers
-Robotic bricklayers are machines that can lay bricks autonomously, reducing the need for human labor and increasing the speed and precision of bricklaying. Three of the most well-known bricklaying smart robots are the Hadrian X, developed by FBR in Australia, and the SAM100 created by Construction Robotics in the US and craftsmac and Other Mechanical Bricklayers.
Hadrian X Bricklaying Robot
The robot uses a 30-meter boom to deliver the bricks to the layhead and can also cut, grind, mill, and route the bricks to fit. It can accommodate different brick sizes, from standard-sized bricks to specially designed interlocking blocks that are 12 times larger than traditional bricks
SAM100 (Semi-Automated Mason) by Construction Robotics
The robot picks up the bricks, puts the mortar on them, and places the bricks on the wall. The mason working alongside the robot then smooths out the excess mortar, greatly accelerating the laying process while also improving the health and safety of workers by reducing manual handling activities.
Craftsmac and Other Mechanical Bricklayers
Craftsmac, a company out of India, has also announced a robotic mason used for building CMU walls, which appears somewhat similar to the SAM100, with a wheeled chassis, robot arm, conveyor, and mortar mixer mounted to it.
Smart trowel
Smart trowels are a new type of bricklaying tool that incorporates advanced features to improve the accuracy and efficiency of mortar application. Key features of smart trowels include:
- Ergonomic, cushioned grip handle that is comfortable to use in all directions.
- One-Touch-Button or other control mechanisms that allow for easy adjustment of the trowel’s angle.
- Potential integration with digital levelling systems or other smart technologies to ensure accurate mortar application
Smart trowels are designed to help masons achieve cleaner, more precise finishes, reducing the need for rework and improving overall efficiency. While specific models of smart trowels are not widely available in the search results, the concept of smart trowels is emerging in the bricklaying industry, and it is likely that more advanced models will be developed in the future.
Electric mortar
Electric mortar mixers are machines that use electric motors to mix mortar, concrete, and other materials. They are available in various sizes and power options, such as 1.5 HP, 3 HP, and 5.5 HP motors13. Electric mortar mixers offer several advantages over gas-powered mixers, including:
- Lower maintenance costs
- Quieter operation
- Easier starting and stopping
- No need for fuel storage
Some popular electric mortar mixers include:
- IMER HSM8 Series Horizontal Shaft Mortar Mixer with a 1.5 HP electric motor3
- IMER MIX 360E Plus with a 5.5 HP 220V single-phase electric motor3
- Crown 6 cu/ft 6PR Poly Drum Series Mortar Mixer with a 5.5 HP Honda motor2
- Essick EM90SE with a 3 HP electric moto
Digital leveling systems
Digital leveling systems, such as the Trimble DiNi Digital Level and the Easy-Laser XT290, are advanced tools that use electronic sensors to measure height and leveling with high accuracy and speed. These systems offer several advantages over traditional automatic leveling methods:
- Faster measurements: Digital leveling systems can determine accurate height information up to 60% faster than with automatic leveling.
- Reduced errors: Digital readings eliminate errors and reduce rework.
- Easy data transfer: Data can be easily transferred to the office for analysis and record-keeping
- Small measurement field: The Trimble DiNi Digital Level has a measurement field of just 30 cm, which can reduce the number of stations needed and make leveling in low light conditions easier.
- Rugged design: These systems are built to withstand tough job site conditions, with dust and waterproof ratings of IP552.
- Real-time updates: Measurement values and graphics are updated in real time, allowing for quick stabilization.
