A Collaborative Workflow to Automate the Design, Analysis, and Construction of Integrally-Attached Timber Plate Structures

This paper introduces a computational framework that fosters collaboration between architects, engineers, and contractors by bridging the gap between architectural design, structural analysis, and digital construction. The present research is oriented toward the formulation of an automatic design-to-construction pipeline for Integrally-Attached Timber Plate Structures (IATPS). This construction system is based on assembling timber panels through the sole interlocking of wood-wood connections inspired by traditional Japanese joinery. Prior research focused on developing distinct computational workflows and dealt with the automation of 3D modelling, numerical simulation, fabrication, and assembly separately. In the current study, a single and interactive design tool is presented. Its versatility is demonstrated through two case studies, as well as the assembly of a physical prototype with a robotic arm. Results indicate that efficiency in terms of data flow and stakeholder synergy is considerably increased. The proposed approach contributes to the†Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 by facilitating the collaborative design of sustainable timber structures. Besides, the research also contributes to SDG 9 as it paves the way for sustainable industrialisation of the timber construction sector through streamlined digital fabrication and robotic assembly processes. This reduces manufacturing time and associated costs while leveraging richer design possibilities.