No abstract

In the last few years, scattered experiences of the application of additive manufacturing in the construction of buildings using 3D printing with robots or automated equipment have emerged around the world. These use a variety of procedures and suggest relevant advantages for the construction industry. In order to identify the different processes and features in development in this field and to guide future research and applications, this article presents a review of the literature on the main aspects involved in the use of 3D printing in the construction sector. The review includes state-of-the-art material mixtures, printing technologies, and potential uses, as well as a novel analysis of building strategies, management systems, and benefits stated about this new approach for construction. It reveals progressive experimentation regarding diverse features, with challenges related to the consolidation of procedures and this technology’s readiness to participate in the building market.

We present an ongoing research project focused on the development of more efficient setups for cooperative multi-robot systems in 3D-printed construction. Early kinematic simulations of a mobile robotic cell prototype with two ceiling-mounted orbiting manipulators have provided new insights into 3D printing topology. An extrusion nozzle is mounted on each collaborative robot whose primary function is to match the extrusion path to the print contour while they move along a circular path. The challenge of setting up on site a semi-structured environment for cooperative multi-robot 3D printing led us to think up a new species of construction 3D printer.

We present a novel workflow for timber joinery robotics in low-rise building construction. A parametric 3D model that associates architectural design, structure geometry and robotic fabrication information was implemented using only CAD-based visual robot programming. Our case study is the design and manufacturing process of a two-story timber-framed dwelling. The main frames of the structure were assembled with mortise and tenon timber joints machined in glue-laminated timber using a 7-axis industrial robot in a wood company. This pioneering experience aims to apply timber framing robotics to social housing in emerging countries.

This article provides support for Universities dedicated to Architecture and Urbanism to implement a Robotic and Digital Fabrication Unit, based on the experience of laboratories in Chile and Brazil. Public funding agencies often promote "technological innovation" associated with "Industry 4.0" which requires a conceptual understanding of this framework. The authors address the industrial robot as a central element of research projects associated with robotic techniques, and creative processes. In summary, this article discloses a repertoire of technological alternatives and installation considerations, with a detailed review on how to set up a robotic unit for academia, for teaching, research and design development, in the context of Southern Creative Robotics.