Caterpillar signed a deal to discuss and develop a potential framework to manufacture and service Fastbrick Robotics’ robotic bricklaying technology. A Cat business unit also invested $2 million in the company.

The 12-month memorandum of understanding also sets up a board with members from both companies to consider how best to offer the technology to Caterpillar’s construction customers.

In July 2016, Fastbrick announced the start of its Hadrian X construction automation systems, with the capacity to deliver up to 1,000 standard brick equivalents per hour over a 30-meter boom. The Hadrian X will be truck mounted.

By using a construction adhesive rather than traditional mortar, the Hadrian X is intended to maximize the speed of the build and the strength and thermal efficiency of the finished structure.

Fastbrick says the Hadrian X is able to handle different brick sizes, and is able to complete all of the cutting, grinding, milling and routing of the bricks prior to laying, so that the structure is ready for first fixing immediately after the machine moves offsite.

Subject to approval by Fastbrick shareholders, Caterpillar will also have an option to invest another $8 million at a share issue price of AUD$0.20.