STRESS-BASED DESIGN

For 3D concrete printed horizontal structures

DLightBeam+ is the second iteration of the 3DLightBeam research project, which aims at combining computational design with the freedom of shape provided by the 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) technology to challenge conventional reinforced concrete structures by exploring new design solutions for carbon-efficient concrete beams. 3DLightBeam+ enables structurally reliable load-bearing printed beams with carbon reduction through multi-hierarchical stress-based design optimization. 3DLightBeam+ is shape-optimised to maximise bending capacity while reducing weight. Its internal infill design is inspired by the layout of the structure of bones, to work in pure compression and tension. A high-resolution material deposition is achieved by data-driven robot control, allowing us to deploy concrete and steel reinforcements only where needed, avoiding material inefficiencies. The structure can be applied in existing construction sites and, at this stage, reduce concrete CO2 emissions by 19.3%.