Robots paint HDB BTO flats in automation trial

Robots could be painting and plastering walls for about half the Build-To-Order (BTO) flats built from 2025.

These machines could also soon be conducting inspection and remote supervision works.

This was announced by Senior Minister of State for National Development Tan Kiat How at an annual forum for building professionals by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) on Oct. 23, 2024.

Trial phase now

A total of 10 trials have been conducted at various BTO sites since 2023.

HDB said in its press release on Oct. 23 that an "architectural finishing" robot in one of its trials can automate and speed up labour-intensive tasks, such as painting and skimming interior surfaces, with the help of in-built sensors.

Automation also ensures consistency in end results, besides achieving “precise targeting”, HDB said.

Yishun BTO project used for trial

A two-year trial for this robot is being carried out at the Grove Spring @ Yishun BTO site.

Since being put to use in Aug. 2023, HDB has observed trade productivity improve by up to 30 per cent.

It would like to build on the results achieved so far by rolling out these robots to selected BTO sites from next year.

Offering robots to suppliers

HDB said it will like to partner suppliers to offer the robots at “competitive prices via a term contract” to access these advanced technologies more affordably and deploying them at work sites.

It added that it is working with industry partners to identify and implement more robotic solutions, such as floor levelling robots.

In its Wednesday press release, HDB said trials so far “have provided insights on the technical efficacy and suitability” of these robotic solutions.

Top photos via HDB