Piling Robot to Streamline Solar Panel Installation
Built Robotics, a company known for its Exosystem and leadership in construction autonomy, has recently announced its latest innovation – the RPD 35. This fully autonomous solar piling system is set to transform the way utility-scale solar foundations are built, enabling construction up to five times faster than traditional methods. The company believes that this technology will help bring the nation closer to achieving net-zero energy.
Understanding Piling in Solar Construction
Piling is a critical step in utility-scale solar projects that involves the installation of steel H-beams, typically 12 to 16 feet in length and weighing up to 200 pounds. Each solar farm requires tens of thousands of piles to be driven into the ground with high accuracy, forming the structural foundation of the solar array.
Introducing the RPD 35 – Streamlining the Piling Process
The RPD 35 is an autonomous solar piling system that integrates all the steps of the piling process, including survey, pile distribution, pile driving, and inspection, into one package. With the help of Built’s construction AI software, a custom pile cartridge system, and advanced sensors such as RTK GPS, the RPD 35 can install over 300 piles per day with an accuracy of less than an inch. This system is set to achieve up to five times the efficiency of traditional piling methods, reducing the need for human intervention.
Reducing Hazards and Improving Efficiency
Noah Ready-Campbell, the founder and CEO of Built Robotics, highlighted the significance of the RPD 35 in improving the efficiency of workers on construction sites while reducing their exposure to hazards like noise, strain, and pinch hazards. The use of automation will significantly reduce the strain of repetitive work, reduce the need for manual labor, and enhance safety on construction sites.
Built Robotics’ Successful Track Record
Built Robotics has a successful track record of developing robots for the solar industry, with its first commercial deployment dating back to 2018. Its robots have played a crucial role in installing over 2 GW of solar capacity across the country, enough to power over 400,000 homes. The company has proven to be a valuable partner in the advancement of the solar industry, supporting the acceleration of the solar buildout with federal incentives.
Accelerating Solar Ramp-up with Automation
As the solar industry advances rapidly, the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has further accelerated the solar buildout in the US. In 2022, approximately 10 GW of utility-scale solar capacity was installed in the country. By 2030, projections show that over 100 GW of solar capacity will be installed each year. With the help of automation and other advanced technologies, this rapid solar ramp-up is essential for the US to achieve its climate objectives.
In conclusion, Built Robotics’ RPD 35 is an innovative technology that is set to revolutionize the construction of utility-scale solar projects, enabling faster construction and enhancing safety on construction sites. Its integration of advanced sensors and construction AI software makes it a valuable partner in the acceleration of the solar buildout, allowing the US to achieve its net-zero energy goals.
