Highlights:

  • BotBuilt’s algorithms are capable of automatically creating three-dimensional models of the parts required to build a house from a two-dimensional blueprint.
  • According to BotBuilt, modifying its robots’ design to produce a particular building module may be done without requiring complex programming.

A startup called BotBuilt Inc., which utilizes robots to expedite home construction projects, has raised USD 12.4 million in seed funding to support its growth plans.

The investment was announced recently. Y Combinator, Shadow Ventures, Ambassador Supply, and publicly traded building supply company Owens Corning reportedly support BotBuilt. The company is now valued at USD 35 million after the financial infusion.

The frame of a house is the metal and wood skeleton that supports the structure and is often put together by hand. There is a considerable chance of human error because the task is manual. Errors that arise during the framing assembly process can result in material waste and project delays, according to BotBuilt.

The corporation plans to move the assembly process to a network of automated factories to meet the challenge. BotBuilt claims that its facilities would create building parts using robotic arms driven by in-house software. The business also uses other manufacturing tools, such as specially-made 3D printers.

BotBuilt’s algorithms are capable of automatically creating three-dimensional models of the parts required to build a house from a two-dimensional blueprint. The software also generates an estimate of the manufacturing costs for each module. The robotic arms in BotBuilt’s factories can then be programmed automatically to create such modules.

Prefabricated wall panels and trusses are the two primary house frame components the company presently concentrates on making. Preassembled building components known as wall panels can expedite residential construction projects. Conversely, a truss is a structural component that supports things like a home’s roof.

According to BotBuilt, modifying the design that its robots employ to produce a particular building module may be done without requiring complex programming. This expedites the configuration workflow, reducing the price and time needed to build a home.

In addition, BotBuilt claims to simplify housebuilding endeavors in additional ways. Since the framing of a home is often erected on the construction site, inclement weather might create delays in assembly. Weather-related delays are less likely because BotBuilt manufactures framing components in factories.

BotBuilt’s early clients have built nine homes since its 2020 launch. The company plans to grow its manufacturing operations with the money it raised in its USD 12.4 million seed round. Ten builders have reportedly contracted with BotBuilt to provide the framing for over 2,000 homes and apartments.

Each batch of wall panels the company makes for a new home currently brings in roughly USD 15,000. Long-term objectives for BotBuilt include running its factories at a gross margin higher than 30% to 40% than conventional wall panels and truss facilities sustain.