A template design and automated parametric model for sustainable corbel dwellings with interlocking blocks
Open access
Date
2023-04Type
- Journal Article
Abstract
Existing approaches to sustainable dwellings often involve high-tech equipment and skilled workers, which are less accessible in low-resource settings. This research introduces a novel template design and automated parametric model for the design of corbel dwellings that can be built using standard equipment, local material, and lower-skilled workers. The template design is a modular, single-story dome-shaped structure transitioning from a square-base footprint to a circular roof zone using only five block types. Interlocking block features enable both aligned and offset dry stacking and reduce the use of mortar and formwork. The geometrically complex design is enabled by a parametric model that automatically synthesizes alternative designs and conducts preliminary structural analysis, including stability and FEA in real-time. The example context used is Morocco where the entire structure can be constructed using Compressed Earth Blocks. A range of dwellings are automatically generated using one set of blocks to explore the design space. Show more
Permanent link
https://doi.org/10.3929/ethz-b-000605392Publication status
publishedExternal links
Journal / series
Developments in the Built EnvironmentVolume
Pages / Article No.
Publisher
ElsevierSubject
Sustainable building design; Corbel structure; Parametric model; Generative design; Discrete architectureOrganisational unit
03954 - Shea, Kristina / Shea, Kristina
02100 - Dep. Architektur / Dep. of Architecture
Funding
141853 - Digital Fabrication - Advanced Building Processes in Architecture (SNF)
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