A A Integral Construction Process: from Complex Surface Generation to Robotic Layer-Construction Using Single-Size Timber Blocks

Abstract

As a universal shape in the nature, curved surface modeling contains rich esthetic value and structural mechanical properties. In recent years, with the advancement of CAD/CAM technology, curved surface has been widely used in architectural design, and has gradually developed into an important means for architects to express their architectural concepts and create unique spaces. The
existing technology of surface construction is mainly based on metal space grid or prefabricated form-work casting concrete, however, layer-construction, as a traditional construction method, has the problems of material waste, construction complexity, and high cost in facing the complex curved surface, which limits its development. For the above problems, this study uses single-size timber block as the entry point, explores the complex surface design method based on layer-construction, and researches the surface type which is suitable for layer-construction. Following that, this study develops a program for constructing complex surfaces based on single-size timber block using layer-construction method, and uses high-precision robotic construction technology to successfully construct a landscape case with complex surface shape. This study provides a new idea for the design of complex surface architecture for timber structures, which has certain theoretical value and practical significance.