The University of Wolverhampton is working in partnership with local company Drywall Steel Sections Ltd on an innovative project designed to make construction design faster, more accurate and more efficient.
Part-funded by Innovate UK, the collaboration forms part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), a nationally recognised programme that enables businesses to access academic expertise and turn research into practical, commercially valuable solutions.
Through this partnership, the University and Drywall Steel Sections Ltd will develop a new digital tool powered by artificial intelligence (AI). The system will support the design and costing of light gauge steel framing and drywall systems, essential components used in the construction of both internal and external walls across the UK.
Speeding Up a Traditionally Slow Process
Currently, the design and pricing of these systems is often carried out manually. This approach can take several weeks and can result in significant inefficiencies, particularly where work is completed but contracts are not secured. The new AI-driven system aims to transform this process by:
By making the process faster and more reliable, the project has the potential to deliver real benefits to construction businesses, helping them operate more efficiently and competitively in a demanding market.
Collaboration Driving Real-World Impact
The project is being led by experts from the University of Wolverhampton, including Professor David Heesom and Dr Nigel Moore, bringing specialist knowledge in construction and digital innovation into a live business environment.
It also represents a full-circle moment for the partnership. Tharinda Rathnapala, who is leading the KTP from the company side, was previously one of the University’s early KTP Associates in the mid-2000s, highlighting the long-term value of collaboration between academia and industry.
Professor Heesom said: This project demonstrates how our research in artificial intelligence can be applied directly within industry to deliver practical benefits. It also reflects the strength of our partnerships, with former students now leading innovation within their own organisations.
Mayank Gupta, owner of Drywall Steel Sections Ltd, added: “We are delighted to be working with the University on this project. It is enabling us to rethink how we design and price our work, using AI to develop smarter and more efficient processes that will strengthen our business.”
Jake Rowe, Company Supervisor, said: “This collaboration is not just about working faster, it is about embedding digital capability within the business that will shape how we deliver our services in the future.”
Supporting Innovation and Business Growth
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships are designed to support businesses in developing new products, services and processes by connecting them with university expertise, research and resources. For many organisations, KTPs provide access to specialist knowledge and capabilities that may otherwise be out of reach, enabling them to solve complex challenges and accelerate growth. They are widely recognised for:
This latest collaboration highlights the University of Wolverhampton’s commitment to working with businesses both locally and nationally to drive innovation and deliver real-world impact. Through initiatives such as KTPs, the University supports organisations of all sizes to explore new ideas, access cutting-edge research and develop tailored solutions that address industry challenges.
To explore how your organisation could benefit from working with the University, contact: engage@wlv.ac.uk
