Empa and EPFL Explore the Future of Construction with Aerial Additive Manufacturing

The University of Applied Sciences Empa and the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) are advancing research into the use of flying robots for additive manufacturing tasks. This innovative approach could enable construction and repair in environments that are difficult or dangerous to reach using traditional methods.

By leveraging 3D printing techniques, autonomous drones could build or repair structures directly in the air, operating collaboratively to deliver flexible and scalable solutions. This method has the potential to improve response times in disaster relief situations, enhance safety, and reduce the logistical challenges of transporting heavy construction equipment to remote sites.

Empa’s DroneHub research facility is serving as the primary testing ground, where researchers are refining both the material systems and control algorithms necessary to bring aerial construction closer to practical reality. The project highlights the interdisciplinary collaboration needed between robotics, materials science, and architecture to make aerial additive manufacturing a viable solution for future construction challenges.

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