FIXBOT
A Lightweight Semi-Autonomous Robotic System for Assisted Drilling in Construction Environments
FIXBOT is a semi-automated robotic system designed to support drilling operations on walls, ceilings, and slabs. Addressing the need for precision and ease in repetitive tasks, it combines manual positioning with automated calibration and execution. The hybrid configuration keeps the system light, flexible, and accessible to on-site workers. FIXBOT reduces physical strain, improves alignment accuracy, and offers a cost-effective alternative to complex robotic setups. It can complete up to 200 drilling operations per day with minimal supervision, streamlining one of the most labor-intensive construction processes.
Drilling in walls, ceilings, and slabs is one of the most repetitive and physically demanding tasks in construction. Traditional workflows rely heavily on manual measurements and uncomfortable working positions, leading to inefficiencies and errors. While advanced robotic systems exist, they are often costly, complex, and difficult to deploy on active sites.
FIXBOT addresses this gap by offering a hybrid solution. The system is manually repositioned by an operator but performs automatic alignment and drilling based on visual calibration. This approach significantly reduces setup complexity and operator fatigue, while still offering the precision needed for digitally driven construction tasks.
FIXBOT is positioned by hand near the target drilling area. Using an onboard camera, it recognizes printed visual markers placed on the surface. Once identified, the robot auto-calibrates its position and orientation relative to the digital layout. Drill coordinates, defined in a parametric model, are converted into a local path the robot follows autonomously.
The platform includes a suction-based adhesion system for stability on both vertical and overhead planes. Once stabilized and calibrated, the robotic arm executes the drilling operation according to the defined specifications. The system can be reused across multiple points with minimal recalibration effort.
FIXBOT has been deployed in test environments and operational conditions. It maintains a consistent drilling accuracy of less than 5 mm, while allowing a single operator to complete up to 200 drillings in a standard working day. Compared to manual drilling, it reduces operator fatigue and improves repeatability, especially in elevated or overhead scenarios. The simplicity of setup and control makes it usable without specialized training.
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PROCESSES
Drilling | Robotic Drilling | Vision System | Autonomous Construction Equipment
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ROLES
Indexlab led the R&D process of Fixbot, from initial concept to working prototype. The team developed the system architecture, designed the custom end-effector, and integrated key components including the tracked base, lifting column, vision system, and drill.
STAKEHOLDERS
LOCATION
INDEXLAB - Politecnico di Milano, Polo Territoriale di Lecco, Lecco, Italy
YEAR
2025
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