Enhancing the Manufacturing Process in Light-Gauge Steel Off-Site Construction Using Semiautomation

This study introduces a digitalized workflow for light-gauge steel off-site construction projects to reduce task duration, enhance data flow, and improve project cost assessment. With technological advancements, digitalization and building information modeling have become crucial in off-site construction to boost productivity. This research systematically integrates these technologies within the off-site construction framework, aiming to decrease manufacturing duration and enhance the accuracy of the bill of quantities for cost assessment during the manufacturing phase. The study addresses the knowledge and practice gap by presenting a comprehensive workflow tailored for light-gauge steel off-site construction projects. The study employs a design science research approach to develop the proposed workflow. The primary objectives are to assess whether a digitalized workflow can significantly reduce task duration and improve project cost assessment and to evaluate the financial feasibility of semiautomation in light-gauge steel off-site construction projects. A real modular project with 47 modules and a total gross floor area of 2,500 m2 is used to apply and evaluate the workflow. The effectiveness of the workflow is assessed by comparing task durations and bill of quantities accuracy before and after implementation. The economic feasibility is evaluated through a cost–benefit analysis referencing the case project. Three months of data postimplementation show a 66.67% reduction in task duration and a 45.39% improvement in bill of quantities accuracy. On average, the workflow resulted in a 38.11% reduction in production and assembly duration and a 10.77% improvement in measurement accuracy. The cost–benefit analysis indicates a payback period of 10 months and 26 days for the initial investment. The results are validated within the Canadian construction industry context. This paper focuses on the design and manufacturing phases, suggesting further studies should cover the installation and operation stages.