Benchmarking Constructability of MIT Roof System
Executive Summary:
The research team was tasked by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to provide assistance to IBACoS in benchmarking the constructability of innovative net shape homebuilding technologies used in their Lab Home construction program. Benchmarking innovative homebuilding technologies against "known" conventional technologies can play an important role in developing builder acceptance. This report presents a methodology for benchmarking the constructability of innovative net shape homebuilding technologies and demonstrates the methodology in a detailed side-by-side field study comparing the MIT roof system used in Lab Home B against conventional truss roof construction used in Lab Home A. A formal structured approach, such as the methodology described in this report, can facilitate the process and improve comparability of results.Specific results documented in this report were obtained from observations made during the construction of the two laboratory homes. Within these limitations, the results suggest the potential of the MIT roof system to reduce construction cycle time and increase labor productivity by 20%. However, results also reflect that the roof system is still in an early prototype stage of development, suffering from minor quality problems and a poorly trained installation crew. Key steps toward commercialization must include an increased focus on manufacturing processes, site construction processes, quality and training.
From a methodological standpoint, application of the construction benchmarking methodology demonstrated the importance of adequate planning as well as the need to identify and adjust for anomalies encountered during construction. The construction monitor must be particularly diligent when observing emerging homebuilding technologies.
Technical Reports & Papers:
Mullens, M., T. Gawlik and M. Malek, Benchmarking the Constructability of the MIT Roof System on IBACoS Lab Home B, Report to U.S. DOE, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Systems, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, June, 1995. [download report]
Mullens, M., R. Armacost, W. Swart, and J. Crowley, "Benchmarking the Constructability of Innovative Net Shape Homebuilding Technologies," International Journal for Housing Science and Its Applications, 19(1)11-22, 1995.
