3D Clay Printing

The research theme of incorporating winding structures in the construction industry has gained increasing interest in recent years due to its potential to enhance the design and construction of structural materials. Bio composite ropes, which are made from a combination of natural fibers and a synthetic binding agent, such as resin, are a key component of this field of study. When hardened using resin, these ropes are able to provide structural support and resist external loads, making them suitable for use in winding structures. In addition to the use of bio composite ropes, this field of research also involves the application of parametric design optimization techniques and graphical representations of force directions to define the winding geometry and minimize material usage. By investigating the possibilities of using winding structures in construction, researchers aim to discover new and innovative ways to improve the performance, efficiency, and sustainability of the built environment.

3D Clay Printing

Cristina Nan

Concrete, steel, and glass are the most commonly used materials in construction, but their production burdens the climate and cannot be considered sustainable. At our research facility, we have begun to explore alternative materials that are more sustainable and less damaging to the environment. We have started a new line of research using clay printing as a tool for generating lightweight ceramic elements for facades and interiors.

The prototypes we have produced are the result of a hybridized practice of craft and computation. Clay is a more sustainable option as it is easy to gather, as it is simply earth, and it is easy to reuse. It is extremely strong and can be used to build almost anything, including homes, pavilions, cafes, facades, and pillars. Additionally, 3D printing with clay allows us to create beautiful geometric shapes, potentially making our built environment more attractive and akin to the beautiful Italian cities we love. In the Netherlands, we have access to many different types of clay, so we encourage thinking outside the box and considering the use of clay in construction.

TOPOLOGY-OPTIMIZED 3D PRINTED CONCRETE STRUCTURES

Bram van Rijssen

Besides clay printing, the ABB robots are used for other extrusion-based processes as well. In this graduation project, the ABB robot is used for 3D printing of topology-optimized structures. These optimized structures are converted into a set of coordinates, making a printing route for the robot. An external pump pumps the concrete at a constant speed via a hose through the nozzle, creating a printing layer. The width of one printing layer can be altered by adjusting the robot speed.

The main challenge with small-scale 3D concrete printing is the behavior of the concrete itself, and how to anticipate it. When working with concrete in a fresh state, the search for the perfect combination between flowability and buildability is ongoing. Working with the robot is relatively easy, and the level of precision of the robot creates a new range of possibilities within the field of structural design. The only obstacle is our own imagination!