Self-interlocking 3D Printed Joints for Modular Assembly of Space Frame Structures

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Author / Producer

Bach, Pascal Giacomini, Ilaria Kladeftira, Marirena

Date

2023

Publication Type

Conference Paper

ETH Bibliography

yes

Citations

Altmetric
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Rights / License

Abstract

This paper presents a novel system of 3D printed self-interlocking space frame structures that are designed to facilitate automatic assembly using robots or drones. The research focuses on fundamental geometrical investigations of connection mechanisms enabled by additive manufacturing (AM) and their computational framework. It seeks to find out in which way AM can advance the design of space frame structures in order to enable automation in the AEC industry. The developed system consists of bespoke 3d printed connections and carbon fiber tubular members harvesting the geometric freedom that AM allows in order to encode multiple details. The novelty of the method lies in the customization of the joints to enable a hybrid scheme of standard and automated assembly. The system operates in a two-step process: humans assemble light rigid modules in a prefabrication facility and later these modules are assembled on-site in a quick fashion using mobile robots. The paper describes multiple investigations of connection mechanisms and joint designs that were tested through physical prototypes. The investigations focus on different self-interlocking mechanisms that address local demands in the structural system. Finally, the prototypes presented are assembled simulating the robotic unit due to the short span of the project.

Permanent link

http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11850/579361

Publication status

published

External links

https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-13249-0_34 north_east

Editor

Gengnagel, Christoph north_east Baverel, Olivier north_east Betti, Giovanni north_east

Book title

Towards Radical Regeneration

Journal / series

Volume

Pages / Article No.

427 - 441

Publisher

Springer

Event

8th Design Modelling Symposium (DMS 2022)

Edition / version

Methods

Software

Geographic location

Date collected

Date created

Subject

Space frames; Joints; Robotic assembly; Additive manufacturing; Self-interlocking

Organisational unit

09566 - Dillenburger, Benjamin / Dillenburger, Benjamin check_circle
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication

Notes

Funding

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