University partners with business to speed up construction using AI

The University is working with local company Drywall Steel Sections Ltd on a new project to make construction design faster, more accurate and more efficient.

The partnership is part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) a UK-wide scheme that helps businesses work with universities to turn research into practical solutions.

Together, the team will develop a new digital tool powered by artificial intelligence that will help with designing and costing light gauge steel framing and drywall systems – key elements used to build external and internal walls within UK constructions sector.

Speeding up a slow process

Currently, designing and pricing these systems is often done manually. This can take several weeks and sometimes results in wasted work if a contract is not won.

The new system aims to:

• Reduce design and pricing lead time from weeks to just a few hours.
• Improve accuracy in quotes
• Cut down on wasted work

By making the process quicker and more reliable, the project could help construction companies save time and money.

Supporting innovation in construction

The project will be led by experts from the University, including Professor David Heesom and Dr Nigel Moore. It also represents a full-circle moment, as Tharinda Rathnapala - who is leading the KTP from the company side - was one of the department’s early KTP Associates in the mid-2000s.

Professor Heesom said:
“This is an exciting project that allows us to apply our research into AI in a real business setting, delivering practical benefits. It also highlights the lasting impact of our graduates, with the project being led from the company side by one of our former students.”

Mayank Gupta, owner of Drywall Steel Sections, said:
“We are delighted to be working with the University on this project. It will help us rethink how we design and price our work, using AI to create smarter and more efficient ways of working.”

Jake Rowe, Company Supervisor, added:
“This is not just about working faster – it’s about building digital skills into the business that will shape how we deliver our services in the future.”

Why Knowledge Transfer Partnerships matter

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are designed to help businesses grow by connecting them with university expertise.

They are widely recognised for:

• Helping companies adopt new technologies and improve productivity
• Supporting innovation and the development of new products and services
• Creating high-skilled jobs and opportunities for graduates
• Boosting local economies by helping businesses become more competitive

For universities, KTPs ensure research has real-world impact, while for businesses they provide access to specialist knowledge that might otherwise be out of reach. KTPs provide an opportunity to take on highly skilled Associates, and they are often the start of a long and fruitful partnership.

This latest partnership highlights the University of Wolverhampton’s ongoing commitment to supporting regional businesses and driving innovation in the construction sector.

To find out how KTPs can help your business please visit Knowledge Transfer Partnerships - University of Wolverhampton

Photo caption: (Left to right) Tharinda Rathnapala - LGSF Technical Manager at Drywall Steel Sections Limited, Amy Allen, Prof. David Heesom and Dr Nigel Moore from University of Wolverhampton and Mayank Gupta - Managing Director at Drywall Steel Sections Limited.