Researchers from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at The Grainger College of Engineering are helping integrate robotic 3D printing into the construction industry. With support from a $1M National Science Foundation ExLENT award, the team lead by CEE Assistant Professor Houtan Jebelli will develop an AI-enabled immersive training program designed to equip established construction professionals with the skills necessary to use advanced robotic technology in the field.
Additive manufacturing, more commonly known as 3D printing, has emerged as a promising solution to growing challenges in infrastructure development. Despite its potential to alleviate tension brought on by labor shortages, increasing costs, and overall complexity, practical implementation faces barriers. One of the biggest roadblocks is the lack of opportunities for current construction professionals to gain hands-on experience working with 3D printing technology.
To address this issue, Jebelli and his collaborators will develop the Robotic Additive Manufacturing Experiential Immersive Learning (RAMIEL) platform, an immersive training environment enhanced with artificial intelligence to simulate real-world robotic 3D printing workflows. A nationwide needs assessment will inform design of interactive RAMIEL course modules, ensuring trainees learn practical skills like calibration, material handling, and jobsite safety. Real-time progress tracking and feedback will also contribute to the program’s personalized nature, allowing individuals to take the course at their own pace.
Beyond developing the digital platform, the program will also provide opportunities for workers to apply their new skills with hands-on training and micro-internships in collaboration with partnering industry firms. To achieve this, Jebelli's team is working with 3D concrete printing industry partners, including LX Construction, based in Monticello, Illinois. By integrating classroom instruction, immersive virtual training, laboratory practice, and real-world industry experience, Jebelli and his team hope to provide a comprehensive pathway for upskilling the construction workforce in advanced manufacturing techniques.
The full project title is “Pivots: Immersive Experiential Training for Robotic Additive Manufacturing in Construction”. Jebelli will serve as the PI, with co-investigators including civil and environmental engineering professor Jeff Roesler and teaching assistant professor Jacob Henschen, as well as U of I College of Education associate professor Cynthia D’Angelo.