What if your ideas could power machines that improve safety, reduce manual labour, and transform how we build the world? That’s exactly what Walter Nowak, Head of Robotics Software & Controls at ST Engineering Applied Solutions, does every day.
He leads the team behind i-paintXL, a semi-autonomous robot redefining one of construction’s most physically demanding tasks: wall painting. Often done at height and involving repetitive strain, painting has long been one of the industry’s more hazardous and labour-intensive jobs.
In Germany, nearly 90% of painters report severe labour shortages, making it difficult to meet project timelines and maintain quality.[1] Solutions like i-paint XL do more than boost productivity – they help bridge the talent gap while improving safety and consistency on site. Beyond robotics and engineering automation, Walter’s work is about solving real-world problems, bringing intelligent automation to the field, and helping modernise a sector ready for change.
Q: What sets the i-paint XL apart from traditional painting methods?
Manual painting is slow, tiring, and inconsistent – especially on large-scale projects. i-paint XL automates the process across surfaces up to 4 metres high. It improves precision, reduces risk, and eliminates the need for scaffolding. And we’re already developing a larger version, i-paint XXL, to take productivity even further!
Q: Has i-paint XL been used in real projects?
Yes, we’ve piloted it in an industrial hall where it coated over 500 square metres. The outcome? A high-quality finish throughout and feedback that our robot outperformed typical manual results. Unlike humans, robots don’t really get tired or lose focus, no matter how long the job takes.
Q: What’s next for construction robotics in the next decade?
Construction has traditionally lagged in automation, but it’s catching up fast. Robots could become the norm for repetitive, high-volume tasks like painting. As systems become smarter and more affordable, adoption will grow. We’ll also see more adaptable robots that can adjust to real-world conditions. That said, full-site automation will take time as construction is a complex, dynamic environment. But by being early movers, we can help define what tomorrow’s worksites can look like – smarter, safer, and more efficient.
[1] Top Five Construction Industry Trends in 2025. USP Research. (2024, March 29). View article here.
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