Robotically assembled building blocks could make construction more efficient and sustainable
MIT researchers have developed a robotic system that assembles modular 3D building blocks called voxels, which could make construction more efficient and sustainable. Their feasibility study shows that using voxels with robotic assembly can significantly reduce embodied carbon compared to traditional methods like 3D concrete printing. The team tested voxel designs in plastic, plywood, and steel, finding strong environmental benefits with steel and wood materials.
- ▪The robotic system, called Modular Inchworm Lattice Assembler (MILAbot), places voxel blocks and steps on them to snap them into place.
- ▪Researchers found the voxel-based construction method could reduce embodied carbon by up to 82 percent compared to 3D concrete printing.
- ▪Three voxel materials were studied: plastic, plywood, and steel, with steel and wood offering the greatest environmental advantages.
- ▪The system includes a user-friendly interface for designing voxel structures and sending instructions to the robots.
- ▪MIT researchers aim to conduct larger-scale fabrication experiments beyond the current lab demonstrations.
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New research suggests constructing a simple building from interlocking subunits should be mechanically feasible and have a much smaller carbon footprint. Watch Video Adam Zewe | MIT News Publication Date: April 28, 2026 Press Inquiries Press Contact: Abby Abazorius Email: [email protected] Phone: 617-253-2709 MIT News Office Media Download ↓ Download Image Caption: A robot carries three voxels as it walks across a voxel structure. Modular Inchworm Lattice Assembler robots, or MILAbots, use grippers on each end to place voxel building blocks and engage the snap-fit connections. Credits: Credit: Courtesy of the researchers ↓ Download Image Caption: The MILAbot’s unique legs, seen here in close up.
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