A workshop on Construction Automation: Computer-integrated Construction is in response to the National Science Foundation's increased activity in Construction Automation Research. The workshop will be held April 2O-23, 1987 at Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pa., site of the NSF Engineering Research Center for Advanced Technology for Large Structural Systems. Preeminent individuals from all major facets of the construction industry, as well as those from disciplines which may substantially contribute to its technological integration, will be brought together in a suitable forum to effectively foster the advancement of the multi-faceted construction industry. This industry is a critical, traditional component of the nation's gross national product. The primary purposes of the workshop itself will be to identify and formalize the folIowing: (a) the "Pressure Points" or areas in the construction industry for significant breakthroughs; (b) the research that should be performed to meet the needs of this critical industry-- giving consideration to both the short-term and the long-term needs; (c) the resources required to support or perform this research; (d) resources available to support or perform the research and (e) mechanisms and incentives to implement the results of the research efforts. The recommendations and conclusions from this workshop will receive extensive distribution to the many segments of or related to the construction industry. ApproximateIy 45 invited participants, and a second group (gallery) of about the same number of interested practicing professionals, researchers, and educators will be encouraged to attend and observe without having the responsibility to directly develop the position paper which will result from the workshop. A report will be produced containing a substantive analysis, summary discussions, and implementable recommendations. The Principal Investigator is very capable, is very active in research and administrative matters relative to the contents of the workshop. Institutional resources and budget are appropriate. An award is recommended. The Structures and BuiIding Systems Program will contribute $23,715 and the Automation and Systems Integration Program will contribute $23,715 for a total of $47,430.
