Caterpillar has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australian robotic technology firm Fastbrick Robotics for a potential collaboration using Fastbrick’s innovative bricklaying technology.
Fastbrick Robotics says its Hadrian X bricklaying machine uses a process similar to that of 3D printing to build a standard-sized home every two days, laying one 15 SBE block every 20-30 seconds.
“This marks the transition from robots working indoors to working outdoors in uncontrolled environments,” the company says.
“We generate a 3D model of the home, feed the data into Hadrian X and the machine prints the structure course by course just like a 3D printer, including all cutting and routing of the bricks for electrical and plumbing services. No human hands need to touch a brick during the loading, cutting and laying process.”
The MOU with Caterpillar is to discuss a potential framework for collaboration on the development, manufacturing, sales and service of WA-based Fastbrick’s products and how they can be applied to Caterpillar products.
The MOU also establishes a strategic alliance board containing representatives from both companies to consider the most appropriate and profitable business models to apply in each country, state or region.
The agreement runs for an initial period of 12 months which can be extended by mutual agreement or terminated by either party at any time. Fastbrick Robotics has also agreed to deal exclusively with Caterpillar for the development and potential commercialisation of the bricklaying technology during the MOU period.
Separate to the agreement, Caterpillar will also be investing US$2 million into Fastbrick Robotics through a wholly owned subsidiary. Fastbrick Robotics will issue fully paid ordinary shares to Caterpillar at an issue price of A$0.10 per share.
Subject to approval by Fastbrick Robotics shareholders, Caterpillar also has an option to invest a further US$8 million in Fastbrick at an issue price of AU$0.20 per share. Fastbrick Robotics intends to seek that approval within 60 days.
“Fastbrick Robotics is delighted to sign a MOU with Caterpillar and welcomes the company as a new shareholder,” Fastbrick Robotics managing director Mike Pivac says.
“Caterpillar is a globally recognised industry leader, and we look forward to collaborating with the company and uniting our teams to share ideas, pursue innovation and explore opportunities to commercialise our unique technology.”