Robotic Connections for CLT Panels

Abstract

In a climate where standard methods of construction are being challenged, developments in engineered timbers are allowing mass timber construction to be explored as a sustainable alternative to current building methods that can change the future of the built environment. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is at the forefront of this evolution and, with the advancement in computational design and digital fabrication tools, there lies an opportunity to redefine standard construction. This project creates connections inspired by traditional Japanese joinery that have been adapted to be used for the panel construction of CLT structures. Using a combination of digital modelling and advanced digital fabrication, the project utilizes CLT offcuts as a primary connection material. The system not only reduces waste but also mitigates thermal bridging and lowers the number of connection points whilst increasing the ease of building and fabrication. Connection systems are designed and prototyped using a robotic arm and are then evaluated within the context of a building scale and considers large‐scale fabrication and on‐site assembly whilst continuing to focus on the reduction of waste.