Spidery Robo-builder Creates Homes in a Day
An advanced construction robot named “Charlotte” is set to transform the construction scene on Earth, and potentially the Moon.
Developed by Australia’s Crest Robotics in partnership with Earthbuilt Technology, Charlotte combines robotics and 3D printing to create fast, low-carbon housing.
The six-legged, spider-like machine can reportedly create a home of 200 square metres in just 24 hours, operating at the pace of roughly 100 bricklayers.
Unlike conventional construction, Charlotte extrudes a mix of sand, soil, crushed brick and waste glass into a durable textile sleeve, compacting each layer to form structural walls. This process simplifies logistics, reduces waste and carbon emissions, while producing fireproof and flood-resistant buildings.
Although still in development, Crest Robotics has already showcased a prototype. The team envisions Charlotte addressing global housing shortages by tackling the twin challenges of cost and speed.
With autonomous operation and reliance on locally sourced materials, the robot could lower barriers to affordable housing in regions struggling with demand.
The robo-builder’s lightweight, foldable design also makes it attractive for off-world construction.
Space agencies are exploring robotic systems to build lunar habitats from local planetary bedrock, and Charlotte’s compact frame and autonomous layering system could prove vital. Unlike massive gantry printers, it can be easily transported and quickly deployed to print domes, landing pads and shelters for lunar research bases.
Although its designs remain basic, Charlotte points toward a future where adaptable, low-carbon robots reshape housing on Earth and help humanity establish a sustainable presence beyond it.
Image Credit: Source
