A Kit-to-Part Solution to Lower Energy Burden and Increase Housing Affordability
Research Team
Our Motivation:
“The AEC industry is increasingly becoming aware of its social impact and responsibility. To this end, basic multidisciplinary research aiming to bolster MEP systems in modular construction has the potential to reduce the energy burden and optimize the use of natural resources. DfMAI proved particularly useful to achieve these goals as it builds on a well-known concept in manufacturing to include installation, particular to this industry, necessary to enhance on-site productivity.”
Research Contribution
Theory that addresses uncertainties associated with site installation of centralized energy-efficient MEP systems.
Developing a methodology for the optimal integration of energy-efficient MEP systems in modular construction using design for manufacturing, assembly and installation (DfMAI).
Problem
Practical Problem
MEP systems constitute a large portion of costs and are difficult to track.
Modular multifamily and hotel projects are reliant on centralized systems for MEP needs.
These systems hinder any opportunity to move more work from the site to the off-site factory, and continue to be a part of the on-site work scope.
Solution
Use off-site MEP Pods, which afford a parallel opportunity to increase a project’s sustainability
Test simulation using a digital twin
Added Value For The Industry
A Kit-of-parts prototype based on proposed DfMAI methodology.
A developed DfMAI matrix to optimize interaction of system components.
Guidelines on how to better integrate MEP Pods into current construction systems.
Cooperation Partner
Timeline
|
Date |
Activity |
Outcome |
|
Year 2021 |
Research became awarded: A Kit-of-Parts Solution to Lower Energy Burden and Increase Housing Affordability |
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|
Jun. 2021 |
Started internship at NREL |
Foundation for the “DfMAI of MEP” methodology to help move towards a unitized Pod solution for energy-efficient MEP that serves each apartment or hotel |
|
Aug. 2021 |
Industry-wide survey |
Collected data from CIFE members, prefabrication companies, and companies looking to enter the prefabricated construction market. |
|
Sep. 2021 |
End of internship at NREL |
Developed DfMAI Matrix for system interaction |
|
Dec. 2021 |
Abstract accepted (Journal of Construction Engineering Management) |
Title: Design for Manufacturing, Assembly, and Installation of MEP Pods in Off-Site Factories for Modular Multifamily and Hotels |
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Year 2022 |
|
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Feb. 2022 |
Began development of digital twin |
Automated data collection, performed statistical analyses, and ran simulations |
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May 2022 |
Paper submission |
Develop kit-of-parts prototype based on paper findings |
|
Nov. 2022 |
BENEFIT proposal |
Application for federal funding |
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If you want to participate in the project, please reach out to Wilfrido Martinez-Alonso (wilfrido.martinez@stanford.edu)