The historic Huayanli complex in Shanghai, weighing 7,500 tons, has been successfully moved back to its original location using an innovative approach involving hundreds of robots. The complex, which consists of traditional shikumen-style buildings, was temporarily relocated to allow for the construction of a three-story underground structure in the area. Engineers faced challenges due to the dense layout of the Zhangyuan district, where the buildings are situated.
The narrow alleys and closely packed old buildings made traditional construction tools unusable. To overcome these obstacles, they employed specialized robots, including drilling robots that can operate in tight spaces and earth-moving robots with folding arms that can work in narrow corridors.
Huayanli’s robotic journey home
The relocation process involved 432 small walking robots that gently lifted the structure and slowly “crawled” to its new position at an average speed of 10 meters per day. Deep learning AI helped the machines distinguish between different types of obstacles, while 3D models created using building information modeling (BIM) and point cloud scanning allowed engineers to identify collision risks and plan precise movement routes. A conveyor-belt system was installed to efficiently remove soil, mimicking a factory line to minimize disruption.
The project aims to preserve the historical buildings above ground while integrating modern underground facilities, connecting surrounding high-rises, shopping areas, and neighborhoods. The successful return of the Huayanli complex to its original site showcases the impressive blend of heritage preservation and modern technology in Shanghai’s evolving urban landscape. The project demonstrates how cities can balance growth and preservation, ensuring that historical sites are not lost in the face of progress.
