Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Equilibrium-Aware Shape Design for Concrete Printing

  • Chapter
  • First Online:
Humanizing Digital Reality

Abstract

This paper proposes an Interactive Design Environment and outlines the underlying computational framework to adapt equilibrium modelling techniques from rigid-block masonry to the multi-phase material typically used in large-scale additive manufacture. It focuses on enabling the synthesis of geometries that are structurally and materially feasible vis-a-vis 3D printing with compression-dominant materials. The premise of the proposed research is that the material printed in layers can be viewed as micro-scale bricks that are initially soft, and harden over time—a kind of micro-stereotomy. This insight, and the observation about the necessity of design exploration yields the principal contributions of the paper: A computational framework that allows for geometric reasoning about shape and exploration of associated design-space, and early, proof-of-concept results.

The original version of this chapter was revised: For detailed information please see Erratum. The erratum to this chapter is available at https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-6611-5_56.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Log in via an institution

Institutional subscriptions

References

  • Bærentzen, J.A., Abdrashitov, R., Singh, K.: Interactive shape modeling using a skeleton-mesh co-representation. ACM Trans. Graph. (TOG) 33(4), 132 (2014)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Baraff, D.: Analytical methods for dynamic simulation of non-penetrating rigid bodies. In: ACM SIGGRAPH Computer Graphics, pp. 223–232. ACM (1989)

    Google Scholar 

  • Baraff, D.: An introduction to physically based modeling: rigid body simulation II—nonpenetration constraints. In: SIGGRAPH Course Notes, pp. D31–D68 (1997)

    Google Scholar 

  • Block, P., Ochsendorf, J.: Thrust network analysis: a new methodology for three-dimensional equilibrium. J. Int. Assoc. Shell Spat. Struct. 155, 167 (2007)

    Google Scholar 

  • Buswell, R.A., et al.: Freeform construction: mega-scale rapid manufacturing for construction. Autom. Constr. 16(2), 224–231 (2007)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Buswell, R.A., et al.: Design, data and process issues for mega-scale rapid manufacturing machines used for construction. Autom. Constr. 17(8), 923–929 (2008)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chien, S., et al.: Parametric customisation of a 3D concrete printed pavilion. In: Proceedings of the 21st International Conference of the Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia CAADRIA 2016, pp. 549–558. The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong (2016)

    Google Scholar 

  • Culmann, K.: Die graphische statik. Meyer & Zeller (A. Reimann), Zurich (1875)

    MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Cundall, P.A.: Formulation of a three-dimensional distinct element model—part I. A scheme to detect and represent contacts in a system composed of many polyhedral blocks. In: International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences & Geomechanics Abstracts, pp. 107–116. Elsevier (1988)

    Google Scholar 

  • Cundall, P.A., Strack, O.D.L.: A discrete numerical model for granular assemblies. Geotechnique 29(1), 47–65 (1979)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • CyBe-Construction: CyBe Construction—Redefining Construction. Available at: https://www.cybe.en/ (2016)

  • De Goes, F., et al.: On the equilibrium of simplicial masonry structures. ACM Trans. Graph. (TOG) 32(4), 93 (2013)

    MATH  Google Scholar 

  • De Kestelier, X., Buswell, R.A.: A digital design environment for large-scale rapid manufacturing. In: Proceedings of the 29th Annual Conference of the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture, pp. 201–208 (2009)

    Google Scholar 

  • Dini, E.: D-Shape. Monolite UK Ltd. http://www.d-shape.com/cose.htm (2009)

  • Fallacara, G.: Toward a stereotomic design: experimental constructions and didactic experiences. In: Proceedings of the Third International Congress on Construction History, p. 553 (2009)

    Google Scholar 

  • Fivet, C., Zastavni, D.: Robert Maillart’s key methods from the Salginatobel Bridge design process (1928). J. Int. Assoc. Shell Spat. Struct. J. IASS 53(171), 39–47 (2012)

    Google Scholar 

  • Frick, U., Van Mele, T., Block, P.: Data management and modelling of complex interfaces in imperfect discrete-element assemblies. In: Proceedings of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS) Symposium, Tokyo, Japan (2016)

    Google Scholar 

  • Frick, U., Van Mele, T., Block, P.: Decomposing three-dimensional shapes into self-supporting, discrete-element assemblies. In: Modelling Behaviour, pp. 187–201. Springer (2015)

    Google Scholar 

  • Gosselin, C., et al.: Large-scale 3D printing of ultra-high performance concrete—a new processing route for architects and builders. Mater. Des. 100, 102–109 (2016)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Hahn, J.K.: Realistic animation of rigid bodies. In: ACM SIGGRAPH Computer Graphics, pp. 299–308. ACM (1988)

    Google Scholar 

  • Harada, T.: Real-time rigid body simulation on GPUs. GPU Gems 3, 123–148 (2007)

    Google Scholar 

  • Hart, R., Cundall, P.A., Lemos, J.: Formulation of a three-dimensional distinct element model—part II. Mechanical calculations for motion and interaction of a system composed of many polyhedral blocks. In: International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences & Geomechanics Abstracts, pp. 117–125. Elsevier (1988)

    Google Scholar 

  • Hernandez, C.R.B.: Thinking parametric design: introducing parametric Gaudi. Des. Stud. 27(3), 309–324 (2006)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Heyman, J.: The stone skeleton. Int. J. Solids Struct. 2(2), 249–279 (1966)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ji, Z., Liu, L., Wang, Y.: B‐Mesh: a modeling system for base meshes of 3D articulated shapes. In: Computer Graphics Forum, pp. 2169–2177. Wiley Online Library (2010)

    Google Scholar 

  • Jiang, C., et al.: Interactive modeling of architectural freeform structures: combining geometry with fabrication and statics. In: Advances in Architectural Geometry 2014, pp. 95–108. Springer (2015)

    Google Scholar 

  • Khoshnevis, B.: Automated construction by contour crafting—related robotics and information technologies. Autom. Constr. 13(1), 5–19 (2004)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Khoshnevis, B., et al.: Mega-scale fabrication by contour crafting. Int. J. Ind. Syst. Eng. 1(3), 301–320 (2006)

    Google Scholar 

  • Kwon, H.: Experimentation and analysis of contour crafting (CC) process using uncured ceramic materials, thesis, Faculty of the graduate school University of Southern California (2002)

    Google Scholar 

  • Lachauer, L.: Interactive Equilibrium Modelling—A New Approach to the Computer-Aided Exploration of Structures in Architecture. Ph.D. thesis. ETH Zurich, Department of Architecture, Zurich (2015)

    Google Scholar 

  • Le, T.T., Austin, S.A., Lim, S., Buswell, R.A., Law, R., et al.: Hardened properties of high-performance printing concrete. Cem. Concr. Res. 42(3), 558–566 (2012a)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Le, T.T., Austin, S.A., Lim, S., Buswell, R.A., Gibb, A.G.F., et al.: Mix design and fresh properties for high-performance printing concrete. Mater. Struct. 45(8), 1221–1232 (2012b)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Liu, Y., et al.: Computing self-supporting surfaces by regular triangulation. ACM Trans. Graph. (TOG) 32(4), 92 (2013)

    MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Livesley, R.K.: Limit analysis of structures formed from rigid blocks. Int. J. Numer. Methods Eng. 12(12), 1853–1871 (1978)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Livesley, R.K.: A computational model for the limit analysis of three-dimensional masonry structures. Meccanica 27(3), 161–172 (1992)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Mechtcherine, V., et al.: Simulation of fresh concrete flow using Discrete Element Method (DEM): theory and applications. Mater. Struct. 47(4), 615–630 (2014)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Monreal, A.: T-norms, T-conorms, aggregation operators and Gaudí’s columns. In: Soft Computing in Humanities and Social Sciences, pp. 497–515. Springer (2012)

    Google Scholar 

  • Perrot, A., Rangeard, D., Pierre, A.: Structural built-up of cement-based materials used for 3D-printing extrusion techniques. Mater. Struct. 49(4), 1213–1220 (2016)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rippmann, M.: Funicular Shell Design: Geometric Approaches to Form Finding and Fabrication of Discrete Funicular Structures. Ph.D. Thesis, ETH Zurich, Department of Architecture, Zurich (2016)

    Google Scholar 

  • Sakarovitch, J.: Stereotomy, a multifaceted technique. In: Huerta, S. (ed.) Proceedings of the 1st International Congress on Construction History, Madrid, pp. 69–79 (2003)

    Google Scholar 

  • Shyshko, S., Mechtcherine, V.: Simulating the workability of fresh concrete. In: Proceedings of the International RILEM Symposium Of Concrete Modelling—CONMOD, pp. 173–181 (2008)

    Google Scholar 

  • Stomakhin, A., et al.: A material point method for snow simulation. ACM Trans. Graph. (TOG) 32(4), 102 (2013)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Sulsky, D., Zhou, S.-J., Schreyer, H.L.: Application of a particle-in-cell method to solid mechanics. Comput. Phys. Commun. 87(1), 236–252 (1995)

    Article  MATH  Google Scholar 

  • Tang, C., et al.: Form-Finding with Polyhedral Meshes Made Simple. http://www.geometrie.tugraz.at/wallner/formfinding2.pdf (2012)

  • Tanigawa, Y., Mori, H.: Analytical study on deformation of fresh concrete. J. Eng. Mech. 115(3), 493–508 (1989)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Van Mele, T., et al.: Best-fit thrust network analysis. In: Shell Structures for Architecture-Form Finding and Optimization, pp. 157–170. Routledge (2014)

    Google Scholar 

  • Vouga, E., et al.: Design of self-supporting surfaces. ACM Trans. Graph. 31(4) (2012)

    Google Scholar 

  • Wangler, T., et al.: Digital concrete: opportunities and challenges. RILEM Tech. Lett. 1, 67–75 (2016)

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Whiting, E.J.W.: Design of structurally-sound masonry buildings using 3D static analysis, Diss, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2012)

    Google Scholar 

  • Wolfs, R., Salet, T.A.M.: 3D printing of concrete structures, graduation thesis, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven (2015)

    Google Scholar 

  • XtreeE: XtreeE| The large-scale 3D (2016)

    Google Scholar 

  • Zastavni, D.: The structural design of Maillart’s Chiasso Shed (1924): a graphic procedure. Struct. Eng. Int. 18(3), 247–252 (2008)

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. ETH Zurich, Institute of Technology in Architecture, Block Research Group, Stefano-Franscini-Platz 5, HIL H 46.2, 8093, Zurich, Switzerland

    Shajay Bhooshan, Tom Van Mele & Philippe Block

Authors
  1. Shajay Bhooshan
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Tom Van Mele
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Philippe Block
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Shajay Bhooshan .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Versailles, Versailles, India

    Klaas De Rycke

  2. University of the Arts, Berlin, India

    Christoph Gengnagel

  3. Ecole des Ponts ParisTech, Champs sur Marne, Australia

    Olivier Baverel

  4. Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia

    Jane Burry

  5. School of Architecture + Planning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

    Caitlin Mueller

  6. ENSA Paris-Malaquais, Paris, France

    Minh Man Nguyen

  7. Philippe Rahm architects, Paris, France

    Philippe Rahm

  8. The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Schools of Architecture, Design and Conservation, Copenhagen, Denmark

    Mette Ramsgaard Thomsen

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

© 2018 Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.

About this chapter

Cite this chapter

Bhooshan, S., Van Mele, T., Block, P. (2018). Equilibrium-Aware Shape Design for Concrete Printing. In: De Rycke, K., et al. Humanizing Digital Reality. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-6611-5_42

Download citation

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-6611-5_42

  • Published:

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Singapore

  • Print ISBN: 978-981-10-6610-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-981-10-6611-5

  • eBook Packages: EngineeringEngineering (R0)

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Search

Navigation