These include terms like AI, machine learning and quantum computing.
For example, prefabricated 3D modules (used in modular construction) involve many additional costs compared to conventional build.These include transportation (a pre-fabricated room is mostly air, after all) and heavy plant for lifting modules into place.
Unless modules are fabricated on a just-in time basis they also have to be stored which costs money, especially if that storage needs to be sheltered from the elements.3D modules also occupy large amounts of factory floor space and therefore absorb a high proportion of factory overheads..If these additional modular construction costs can be offset by large improvements in construction site efficiency, for example by relocating wet trades or complex specialist trades away from the site, a 3D module might make sense.
But, with modular construction, it’s often the case that prefabricating comparatively simple parts of a building as 3D modules adds cost and complexity, especially if the required trades need to be present on-site anyway..The problems found in modular construction are only compounded by inefficient factory working.
The cost of any prefabricated component (indeed, any component of any building) can be divided into materials and labour.
If we ignore the cost of the labour that has gone into making the component, we only have material costs left, resulting in limited opportunities to add value.Although at a conceptual level this was thought to be a good idea, there are several issues to overcome.
Location, IP and, interestingly, tribalism.The fierce independence and competitiveness of laboratory operations is an antagonist to sharing and cooperation..
Sustainable, future labs.The sustainability of laboratories was high on the agenda.