Drone technology has revolutionised the way we approach various tasks, from aerial surveillance to package delivery. Mudd Architects show how its application extend far beyond these conventional uses. In a recent project in Brussels they transformed a damaged facade into an artistic statement. But why use a drone for construction?
One of the biggest benefits of using a drone for construction is the ability to coat large surfaces quickly. MuDD Architects were able to coat a 15-meter tall wall in a matter of hours, something that would have taken much longer using traditional methods. Additionally, there is no need for scaffolding when using a drone, which saves time and money, and the drone can reach difficult areas that would be impossible to access otherwise.
The drone used by MuDD Architects has the ability to spray up to 30 meters high, and can even be fitted onto a cherry picker for even higher surfaces. This makes it ideal for a variety of construction projects, from waterproofing and insulation to mortar spraying and vertical garden mixes with seed projection projects. It can even be used for facade cleaning of large surfaces, towers or skyscrapers.
But it’s not just about speed and efficiency. The use of drones in construction can significantly reduce the danger level for workers on site. Drones can take on many of the dangerous tasks that would otherwise put workers at risk, such as working at heights or in hazardous environments. This allows skilled master crafters to focus on specific tasks that require their expertise, while the drone takes care of the more mundane or dangerous tasks.
MuDD Architects’ dronecrete mural project is a prime example of how drones can be used in complex urban environments. Working within a netted space, they were able to demonstrate the potential of drone technology to significantly reduce the cost, time, and danger level of construction projects in urban areas. This is especially important as cities continue to grow and construction projects become more complex and challenging.
Take a look at how we maximised the utility of drone sprays for our project in Anderlecht.
Mudd Architects demonstrates that this drone technology can revolutionise construction in numerous way, their Mud Shell project also indicates this. In the 2018 London design festival, Mudd Architects used the drone to spray a mixture of clay and fibre onto little sacking bags filled with hay mounted on a formwork of wooden struts. This allowed for a durable and permanent structure to be that was built in in a matter days from cheap and local materials.
Chaltiel and the team see the utility of this technology in refugee camps and natural disaster scenarios, the binding of the building elements took only in a matter of minutes, this would usually take a matter of weeks by conventional building methods. To add to this, when interviewed by Dezeen, Chaltiel added “The drones are quite easy to bring to any site. When dismantled they fit into two [pieces of] luggage and the pump is on wheels so it can reach remote or difficult areas without the need for scaffolding or cranes.”
In conclusion, drone technology is changing the face of construction, offering faster, safer, and more efficient ways of working. With the ability to reach difficult areas and coat large surfaces quickly, drones are ideal for a wide range of construction projects, from emergency housing in disaster situations to large-scale urban renovations. MuDD Architects’ dronecrete mural and their Mud Shell project show the versatlity and utility of drone in the construction industry. This is just the beginning of what is sure to be a long and exciting journey for drone technology in construction.