Digital fabrication of ribbed concrete shells using automated robotic concrete spraying

• DOI: 10.1016/j.addma.2022.103159
• Publication Date: 2022-09-26T17:53:03Z
• Authors: Mishael Nuh; Robin Oval; John Orr; Paul Shepherd
• Keywords: Formwork

Doubly-curved ribbed concrete shells are a materially efficient means of spanning large areas such as roofs and floors. However, the fabrication structures poses challenges in terms formwork manufacturing well material deposition. This has led to their decline compared more prismatic shapes flat slabs which can be manufactured economically. paper presents novel process called Automated Robotic Concrete Spraying (ARCS) by glass fibre reinforced (GFRC) is sprayed onto curved create thin shell components variable thickness. The trajectory planning generation algorithm developed implemented ARCS presented. Two sets prototype were fabricated: one forms segments larger structural floor demonstrator another consisting single component with deep ribs on shell. sequencing used generate spray paths for each outlined, using two different strategies add fabricated shells. While been conjunction pin-bed mould actuating flexible spraying surface, approach adaptable enough that any utilised. Combined output speed deposition, offers potential enable mass production customisation doubly-curved thickness an industrial at architectural scale. • A new robotic leveraging isolines geodesics was formulated. prototypes developed. high throughput lends itself offsite production.