Adaptive Concrete Diamond Construction (ACDC) and Beyond: Formwork-Free Continuous Production of Adaptive Support Structures from Variable Frame Elements
Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review
Contributors
Abstract
This project investigates a novel approach to the continuous production of reinforced concrete modules of varying geometries for the assembly of shell structures. To this end, digital design and automated manufacturing methods were employed, enabling the decoupling of geometric complexity from production time and cost. In the first project phase, flat modules were developed by discretizing free-form shells into unique planar quadrilateral elements, forming grid-shell-like structures. Algorithms for discrete geometric representation, faceting, and parametric form-finding were created and integrated into a continuous digital workflow linking design and fabrication. In parallel, a fully automated production process was established using advanced technologies such as 3D concrete printing and robotic reinforcement placement. The second project phase focused on advancing the technology toward industrial applicability. This included the production of curved modules, the development of new shell segmentation strategies, the implementation of post-processing techniques to improve geometric accuracy, and the introduction of more sustainable materials and automated quality control methods.
Details
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Beton- und Stahlbetonbau |
| Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - Jun 2026 |
| Peer-reviewed | Yes |
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Keywords
- 3D concrete printing, Automated production, Carbon fiber reinforcement, Concrete shells, Digital construction, Free-form shell structures, Grid-shell design, Modular construction, Prefabrication, Strain-hardening cementitious composites (SHCC)