| 105 T T Kelly Deeks Robotic technology saving time and costs Robotic layouts are completed up to 10 times faster than manual methods. G A Building BUILDING Precision Layout Solutions is set to change the way homes and commercial buildings are laid out across the South Island, with a new robotic slab printing service offering millimetre accuracy, faster build starts, and fewer on-site mistakes. The new business has been launched by GA Building founder Greg Avery, a qualified builder with more than 20 years’ experience across New Zealand, Canada, and Australia. GA Building specialises in residential new builds and renovations across Queenstown Lakes, Cromwell, and Northern Southland. While still running his day-to-day business, Greg used any spare moment he had to develop Precision Layout Solutions behind the scenes. Y ears of research led to six months of testing, CAD preparation, and equipment commissioning, and Greg has now moved the concept into active service, with builders and developers taking early notice. “I’d been looking at 3D scanners and layout robotics for a while,” he says. “In the US they’ve been using this technology on commercial projects for about three years, and I could see the benefit for residential building too.” Precision Layout Solutions uses a threewheel robotic printer guided by a robotic total station to convert CAD files into markings printed directly on to the construction floor. Walls, doors, windows, cabinetry, plumbing and electrical points, and text labels can all be printed with consistent accuracy, allowing builders and subcontractors to begin work sooner and with less confusion. Greg says the technology frees up senior staff for higher-value work while giving everyone else on-site, including the client, clear visual information. “Your foreman doesn’t have to spend hours snapping lines or checking measurements. Their time can stay on the job, and the crew can stand frames with confidence because the floor plan is printed directly on the slab.” The workflow begins with CAD conversion, where Precision Layout Solutions requests DWG and PDF files from designers, architects, or housing companies. Greg employs a dedicated CAD technician to convert architectural drawings into layout-ready files. “There’s a lot of work behind the scenes to make sure the robot is printing exactly what a builder wants to see, including offsets, numbers, and service points. Because I’ve been on the tools, I know how important those details are,” Greg says. Robotic layouts are completed up to 10 times faster than manual methods, and Greg says the long-term savings are already being recognised by early adopters. “There are definitely people who question the cost at first, but once they see how much time it saves throughout the build, it changes their view pretty quick.” A recent demonstration in Wānaka drew multiple builders and industry visitors, including several that had been skeptical until seeing the system in action. Greg also sees benefits for commercial contractors, particularly in data centres and fulfilment facilities, where grid accuracy is essential. Software and hardware updates are continually improving speed and usability. With Precision Layout Solutions now operating alongside GA Building, Greg believes robotic layout services will support an industry under pressure to build faster without sacrificing quality. “Housing prices are forever rising in New Zealand. If we want better efficiency, less rework, and less stress on-site, then every part of the building process needs a deep dive. This is one piece of that puzzle.” “There are definitely people who question the cost at first, but once they see how much time it saves throughout the build, it changes their view pretty quick.” Greg Avery Queenstown Built. Site Tough. From precision workshop builds to heavy-duty site work, we keep your projects moving. Whether it’s a custom fabrication, an urgent repair, or routine maintenance, our team delivers quality craftsmanship that lasts. Proudly Supporting G A Building Contact Us 027 320 2203 chris@daeweldengineering.co.nz
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