A review on environmental and economic potential of robotic construction in actual scale driven by structural optimization
Date
2019Source
Proceedings of IASS Annual SymposiaVolume
2019Issue
17Pages
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Nowadays, the application of robotic construction techniques in real scale structures is an emerging direction of technological development, which is rapidly growing with various examples coming to the fore. Studies have shown that their implementation in complex design solutions is advantageous as regard their economic aspect in comparison with conventional construction processes mainly due to their ability to minimize material waste and eliminate the use of formworks, in addition to their positive environmental impact when structural optimization, e.g. topology optimization is applied. This paper reviews on relevant works on this research direction with emphasis on robotic construction processes and particularly on 3D Printing (3DP) and Adaptive Casting (AC), together with their influence that can bring to the building industry in terms of their environmental impact and cost, taking into account structural optimization as medium to reduce required materials. Simultaneously, recent developments in this area of research, currently undertaken in our research laboratory are demonstrated. The aim is to discuss and draw conclusions, formulating at the same time a theoretical framework for understanding and applying automation and robotic techniques in the construction industry based on their sustainable potential.