ITECH M.Sc. Thesis 2024: Reclaimed Design – An availability-oriented design methodology for reclaimed lumber
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In an era of resource scarcity and climate change, this study emphasizes a shift towards resource-oriented design methodologies. A computational and fabrication framework for reclaimed lumber is developed to inform structural design based on material properties, aiming for desired performance and design fl exibility. The challenge lies in the material’s inherent variability due to diverse origins and prior uses. This research proposes a method that integrates material analysis, dataset generation, machine learning, equilibrium-based design, fixed robotics, and subtractive manufacturing. ML models predict compressive strength from non-destructive tests to create a high-resolution material gradient. A 7m truss demonstrates the method’s potential to maximize reclaimed lumber use and promote sustainable construction.
Advisors: Tzu-Ying Chen, Zuardin Akbar
Supervisors: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jan Knippers, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Wortmann