Computational Design Methods for geometry-driven upcycling of found objects in construction
OPEN ACCESS
Loading...
Author / Producer
Date
2026-03
Publication Type
Review Article
ETH Bibliography
yes
Citations
Altmetric
OPEN ACCESS
Data
Rights / License
Abstract
Computational Design Methods (CDMs) have increasingly supported the use of Found Objects (FOs) for circular construction. These methods automate the geometric assignment of FOs to a target design, yet a comprehensive overview is lacking. In this context, this paper systematically reviews 142 publications on CDMs for upcycling FOs in construction. It categorizes existing workflows and identifies six key CDMs based on assignment logic and four geometric FO types. The review serves as a roadmap for future research and practical applications, aiding architects and engineers in informed decision-making. It emphasizes the potential of utilizing FOs’ inherent geometry as design drivers for economical and aesthetic architectural solutions. This paper also identifies challenges in scaling CDMs from prototypes to practical applications, such as structural performance and integration with existing workflows. Future research directions include developing AI-based methods, automating construction processes using CDMs, and advocating for sensitivity analysis to assess adaptability across design scenarios.
Permanent link
Publication status
published
External links
Editor
Book title
Journal / series
Volume
183
Pages / Article No.
106803
Publisher
Elsevier
Event
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
computational design; reuse; optimization algorithms; upcycling; circular economy
Organisational unit
09566 - Dillenburger, Benjamin / Dillenburger, Benjamin
09724 - Langenberg, Silke / Langenberg, Silke
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication
Notes
Funding
-- - NCCR Digital Fabrication (SNF)