FBR strengthens robot’s IP protections with new patents

Robotic construction technology company FBR has filed nine new International PCT patent applications covering a range of technologies involved in the next-generation Hadrian X block laying system.

This brings the total number of patent families covering the Hadrian X, DST, the Fastbrick Wall System and adjacent outdoor robotics applications to over 40.

The filing of the applications strengthens FBR’s position within the construction robotics space, centred on the dynamically stabilised placement of product in outdoor, uncontrolled environments, according to an announcement.

FBR Managing Director and CEO Mike Pivac said: “The intellectual property developed during the design and manufacture of the next-generation Hadrian X is significant in providing FBR with a strategic moat and an on-going commercial advantage as we begin to roll out our Wall as a Service operations in key international markets.

“Importantly, it is not just the commercial opportunity for our flagship Hadrian X that is being preserved through our Intellectual Property strategy, but also adjacent applications such as roof tiling and 3D concrete printing.”

The recent filings capture a number of FBR’s research and development efforts including the protection of the new modular design and distributed control architecture, and the shuttle-based block delivery system that transports blocks from the base of the machine to the laying head.

The next-generation Hadrian X is far more advanced than its predecessor, with improved lay speed, boom reach, reliability, and versatility.

The first next-generation Hadrian X is planned to be shipped to the United States in early 2024 to commence commercial activity.

Pivac said: “Our focus continues to be preparing the next-generation Hadrian X for deployment to the United States, and the execution of our Intellectual Property strategy grants us the ability to effectively prioritise our development programmes while securing the commercial opportunity for a broad range of applications well into the future.”

Picture: FBR Ltd