Innovative Construction Methods & Technology

Construction technology innovation is becoming an increasingly important factor for the growth of many large Japanese firms. It has become essential that new construction technologies be identified, obtained on the most reasonable terms, and transferred smoothly to the construction site. This paper describes the four major factors that contribute to the development of innovative construction technology in Japan: (1) strategic alliances; (2) effective information gathering capability; (3) reputation through innovation; and (4) technology fusion. The paper also illustrates the technology evaluation process used by a typical large general contractor in Japan. It is concluded that global technology information gathering has increased the awareness of the large construction firms in Japan to outside technology. To implement synthesis of technology, these companies have participated in cross-industry research projects. The crucial link between innovation and business strategy in a large construction firm in Japan was found to be the long-range technology forecasting that integrates action of today with the vision of tomorrow.

Commencing in 2001, prompted by ever increasing construction costs with an ever decreasing availability of skilled labour, Australian Construction Engineers have created and developed an advanced, innovative construction technology called Dincel Construction System . This system enables load bearing walls and columns to be constructed at lower cost, in less time and with lower skill demand than by traditional masonry or concrete. Dincel Construction System is a substantial advance over any comparable system available anywhere in the world.

Dincel Construction System is based on an internationally patented, lightweight, hollow form, manufactured from a durable rigid polymer, which when filled with ready mixed concrete, produces a load bearing, fire resistant structural element. The forms are easily connected by hand via patented, ‘snap together’ joints and can be utilised for walls of any length at the rate of three forms per lineal metre. The forms are cut to specified length in the factory and can be utilised in walls and columns of any height, without the need for cranes or other lifting equipment.

Dincel Construction System is highly cost effective for a wide range of applications:

• All types of residential, commercial and industrial buildings
• Earthquake, cyclone, hurricane and termite resistant buildings of all types
• Waterproof basement walls and sea walls
• Liquid storage tanks (including water, oil and manure)
• Crop and material storage tanks
• Irrigation and water management channels
• Flood levees and flood control devices
• Environmental protection (including noise barriers and erosion protection)
• Corrosion protection of marine, agricultural and sewage structures.

Dincel Construction System delivers substantial benefits. When evaluated against a range of increasingly important commercial, technical, environmental and OH&S criteria, DCS delivers substantial benefits for a wide range of applications.

• More affordable homes, schools, hospitals, offices, factories etc
• Safer, stronger, more durable homes, schools, hospitals, offices, factories etc
• Environmental Responsibility (including recycling of manufacture and building waste)
• Energy conservation during construction and throughout service life
• Water and food Conservation
• Workplace Safety
• More fire resistant homes, schools, hospitals, offices, factories etc