CONCRETE PAVING PRODUCTIVITY IMPROVEMENT USING A MULTI-TASK AUTONOMOUS ROBOT
ABSTRACT To improve productivity in conventional concrete construction, autonomous robots that perform specific tasks are being developed. Single-task robots are capable of enhancing specific functions, though their impact on the overall productivity remains unclear. A robot that incorporates each task-specific piece of machinery used in the concrete paving process into one fully autonomous unit is evaluated. Assessing potential productivity from the use of a fully automated process is a required step for developing a full scale-system. With the purpose of identifying productivity benefits in an automated concrete paving operation, two concrete paving processes will be compared using simulation tools. One process is the conventional operation using intensive labour, slip form paving machine and auxiliary equipment. The other process is the automated operation using a fully autonomous robot. Applications of this assessment methodology based in simulation will allow for the determination of productivity indicators of automated operations in hazardous environments, using the respective results to complement prototypical tests.
Implementation of Robotics in Building: Current Status and Future Prospects
A survey to evaluate the state-of-the-art development and employment of building robots was conducted worldwide among construction companies, universities, and other research organizations. The methodology of the survey and its results are presented. The analysis of the results yields a gloomy picture of the present level of on-site of robot employment. The reasons for this situation are identified as follows: (1) Existing robots are not well adapted to building construction. (2) There are problems associated with the conventionally designed building. (3) It is difficult to justify robot employment economically. (4) There are managerial barriers. Consequently, recommendations are offered for more efficient future implementation.
Balloon assisted translocation of the mitral anterior leaflet to prevent left ventricular outflow obstruction (BATMAN): A novel technique for patients undergoing transcatheter mitral valve replacement
Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) is an option for patients at high risk for mitral valve replacement or repair via sternotomy or left thoracotomy approach. TMVR carries up to 22% risk of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. Severe LVOT obstruction can have devastating hemodynamic and clinical consequences.