Classification of Robotic 3D Printers in the AEC Industry

Ala Saif Eldin Sati, Bharadwaj R.K. Mantha, Saleh Abu Dabous, Borja García de Soto

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a branch of additive manufacturing (AM) that works by slicing a 3D computer-aided design (CAD) model into 2D layers and sequentially printing each layer additively until the entire object is obtained. There has been a growing interest in 3D printing in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry because of its ability to lower costs, reduce waste, and simplify the supply chain. Due to the inherent nature of this technology, it requires a synergistic effort among experts in different disciplines such as architecture, material science, structural design, and robotics, to name a few. Previous studies have focused on developing, exploring, and investigating the architectural, materials, and structural aspects. However, the robotic technology aspect received relatively less attention. Thus, the objective of this study is to critically review the existing 3D printing robotic systems in the AEC industry and explicitly categorize them. At first, the literature related to 3D printing robotic systems in the AEC industry was studied, and the subjects which have not been discussed extensively were identified. Then, the gaps in the existing state of the art were identified, and lastly, a classification method was developed and discussed. To obtain the classification of the existing construction 3D printing robotic systems, five parameters were highlighted, namely fabrication place, fabrication type, materials used, 3D printer type, and 3D printing technology. In addition, the obtained classification was based on exploring the combinations of these parameters and their variations for existing applications in the AEC industry. By selecting the material that will be used, the application type, and other structural details, the printer details will be provided based on the developed classifications. The resulting classification could greatly assist and guide stakeholders’ efforts to better understand and adopt 3D printing in current and future projects.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 38th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction, ISARC 2021
EditorsChen Feng, Thomas Linner, Ioannis Brilakis
PublisherInternational Association for Automation and Robotics in Construction (IAARC)
Pages924-931
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9789526952413
StatePublished - 2021
Event38th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction, ISARC 2021 - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Duration: Nov 2 2021Nov 4 2021

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction
Volume2021-November
ISSN (Electronic)2413-5844

Conference

Conference38th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction, ISARC 2021
Country/TerritoryUnited Arab Emirates
CityDubai
Period11/2/2111/4/21

Keywords

  • 3D printer
  • AEC industry
  • classification
  • robotics

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Building and Construction
  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Control and Systems Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Science Applications

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Classification of Robotic 3D Printers in the AEC Industry'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this