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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Green Building".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2024) | Viewed by 9769

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Tobias Schwinn

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Institute for Computational Design and Construction, University of Stuttgart, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany
Interests: agent-based modelling and simulation; discrete modelling; robotic fabrication; segmented shell design; adaptive modular construction
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Prof. Dr. Jutta Albus

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Juniorprofessorship Resource Efficient Building Construction, Technical University of Dortmund, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
Interests: prefabricated housing; resource-efficient construction; modular construction; automated construction methods; building process optimization; adaptable standardization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The UN are projecting up to 2.5 billion new urban dwellers by 2050, requiring enormous volumes of housing and infrastructure globally. Meeting this demand poses multidisciplinary challenges:

1) Construction is still a largely manual process. The building sector has not experienced similar productivity gains as other industries have in recent decades. Controlled fabrication processes, as in prefabrication and modularized construction, favor the economical use of resources and can increase productivity while reducing construction costs.

2) The building sector is already one of the largest consumers of resources and contributors to climate change. Therefore, increasing productivity must go hand-in-hand with decarbonizing the entire life cycle of buildings, from material sourcing and fabrication to operation and reuse. Given the demands of a circular economy, prefabrication and modularized construction can cause additional sustainable effects, e.g., by facilitating the reuse of building modules. The reuse and adaptation of the existing building stock have the potential to lock in embedded carbon. To implement these potentials in practice, planners must rethink project delivery as early as the design and tendering phases.

3) Examples of modularization and serialization in the building sector from the 20^th century have not always gained social acceptance. Then, as now, attempts were made to counteract the housing shortage through incentives on the political level, the housing industry, developers, etc., to provide quick solutions. To avoid the deficits of the past, solutions must consider the planning, manufacturing, and social levels in order to achieve sustainable buildings with long periods of use.

Meeting the projected building needs in view of the environmental impact of construction is one of the largest challenges today that needs to be addressed in a multi-faceted way. In this Special Issue, we, therefore, encourage original research articles and reviews on the topic of Prefabrication and Modularized Construction that combine at least two of the following themes (but not limited to):

Artificial intelligence, machine learning, multi-agent systems;
Automation and digital fabrication;
Building Information Modelling;
Circular economy;
Computational design and simulation ;
Historical perspectives;
Life-cycle assessment;
Light-weight construction;
Modularized concrete construction;
Modularized timber construction;
Social perspectives.

We are looking forward to your contributions.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in Buildings.

Dr. Tobias Schwinn
Prof. Dr. Jutta Albus
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

artificial intelligence, machine learning, multi-agent systems
automation and digital fabrication
building information modelling
circular economy
computational design and simulation
construction history
life-cycle assessment
light-weight construction
modularized concrete construction
modularized timber construction
social science

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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21 pages, 23438 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Architectural and Configurational Study of Senior Housing with Steel Volumetric Modular Technology: Towards Age-Ready and Process-Efficient Sustainable Living

by Bartłomiej Homiński, Filip Suchoń, Karol Wawrzkiewicz and Ewelina Woźniak-Szpakiewicz

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3237; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083237 - 12 Apr 2024

Viewed by 382

Abstract

The aging population requires housing developments that can adapt to their changing needs. The study examines the use of steel volumetric modular technology to construct collective senior housing for independent, sustainable living. The authors explore the qualities of senior housing projects through a literature survey and case studies. Projects appreciated in the architectural industry, illustrating the best practices, are considered. For the development part, the feasible design variants are proposed, BIM modeled, and expertly assessed. Optimization of the types and numbers of modules is carried out to make the most effective use. The potential for generating appropriate flow and social interaction in the shared spaces is also tested. The results prove that a single dwelling unit may embody many features of a suitable architecture for older adults and be used to construct collective senior housing buildings. However, a 3D module with two rooms on either end and a corridor in the middle (the most economical form of 3D prefabrication) is unsuitable for senior housing. Additionally, a narrow 3D module cannot accommodate a complete dwelling unit due to increased dimension needs. Designers and builders must balance economics with the requirements of aging residents to widen the range of volumetric prefabrication areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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20 pages, 5450 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sensitivity-Based Permutation to Balance Geometric Inaccuracies in Modular Structures

by Patrick Forman, Mark Alexander Ahrens and Peter Mark

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 3016; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16073016 - 04 Apr 2024

Viewed by 423

Abstract

In modular structures, inaccuracies of the modules superimpose over the entire structure. Depending on the placement of the modules, these inaccuracies have (different) effects on stresses and total deformations. Especially for structures with many individual modules, it is favorable to place them according to their influence. To cover structural diversity, column-, beam-, and wall-like modular structures made from plane modules are investigated. In numerical simulation, geometric inaccuracies are applied via an equivalent temperature approach, which allows almost arbitrary nodal deviations of the modules. With the elementary effects method, the sensitivities of the modules’ inaccuracies regarding their structural impact can be determined with minimal computational effort. On a predefined control node, the overall structural inaccuracies are examined in a simplified manner. Column-like structures experience higher deformations due to inclination than beam-like or wall-like structures. For column-like, the bottommost modules are decisive for the overall inaccuracy, as they contribute significantly to the inclination. By contrast, modules at the supports are identified as particularly sensitive for beam- and wall-like structures. Controlling module placement towards their mean absolute influence, the deformation at the control node is mathematically reduced by at least 43% compared to random placement. Thereby, even modules that do not comply with tolerance requirements for structural components can be used in areas of low influence for a sustainable and low-waste design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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19 pages, 20063 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Co-Design Methods for Non-Standard Multi-Storey Timber Buildings

by Luis Orozco, Anna Krtschil, Hans Jakob Wagner, Simon Bechert, Felix Amtsberg, Jan Knippers and Achim Menges

Sustainability 2023, 15(23), 16178; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152316178 - 21 Nov 2023

Viewed by 1450

Abstract

To meet climate change goals and respond to increased global urbanisation, the building industry needs to improve both its building technology and its design methods. Constrained urban environments and building stock extensions are challenges for standard timber construction. Co-design promises to better integrate disciplines and processes, promising smaller feedback loops for design iteration and building verification. This article describes the integrated design, fabrication, and construction processes of a timber building prototype as a case study for the application of co-design methods. Emphasis is placed on the development of design and engineering methods, fabrication and construction processes, and materials and building systems. The development of the building prototype builds on previous research in robotic fabrication (including prefabrication, task distribution, and augmented reality integration), agent-based modelling (ABM) for the design and optimisation of structural components, and the systematisation of timber buildings and their components. The results presented in this article include a functional example of co-design from which best practises may be extrapolated as part of an inductive approach to design research. The prototype, with its co-designed process and resultant flat ceilings, integrated services, wide spans, and design adaptability for irregular column locations, has the potential to expand the design potential of multi-storey timber buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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21 pages, 8609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Range Image-Aided Edge Line Estimation for Dimensional Inspection of Precast Bridge Slab Using Point Cloud Data

by Fangxin Li, Julian Pratama Putra Thedja, Sung-Han Sim, Joon-Oh Seo and Min-Koo Kim

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12243; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612243 - 10 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1051

Abstract

The accurate estimation of edge lines in precast bridge slabs based on laser scanning is crucial for a geometrical quality inspection. Normally, the as-designed model of precast slabs is used to match with laser scan data to estimate the edge lines. However, this approach often leads to an inaccurate quality measurement because the actually produced slab can be dimensionally different from the as-designed model or the inexistence of the as-designed model. In order to overcome this limitation, this study proposes a novel algorithm that generates and utilizes range images generated from scan points to enhance accuracy. The proposed algorithm operates as follows: first, the scan points are transformed into a range of images, and the corner points of these range images are extracted using a Harris corner detector. Next, the dimensions of the precast bridge slab are computed based on the extracted corner points. Consequently, the extracted corner points from the range images serve as an input for edge line estimation, thereby eliminating the matching errors that could arise when aligning collected scan points to an as-designed model. To evaluate the feasibility of the proposed edge estimation algorithm, a series of tests were conducted on both lab-scale specimens and field-scale precast slabs. The results showed promising accuracy levels of 1.22 mm for lab-scale specimens and 3.10 mm for field-scale precast bridge slabs, demonstrating more accurate edge line estimation results compared to traditional methods. These findings highlight the feasibility of employing the proposed image-aided geometrical inspection method, demonstrating the great potential for application in both small-scale and full-scale prefabricated construction elements within the construction industry, particularly during the fabrication stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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25 pages, 16352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extension of Computational Co-Design Methods for Modular, Prefabricated Composite Building Components Using Bio-Based Material Systems

by Christoph Zechmeister, Marta Gil Pérez, Niccolo Dambrosio, Jan Knippers and Achim Menges

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12189; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612189 - 09 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1469

Abstract

Robotic coreless filament winding using alternative material systems based on natural fibers and bio-based resin systems offers possible solutions to the productivity and sustainability challenges of the building and construction sector. Their application in modular, prefabricated structures allows for material-efficient and fast production under tightly controlled conditions leading to high-quality building parts with minimal production waste. Plant fibers made of flax or hemp have high stiffness and strength values and their production consumes less non-renewable energy than glass or carbon fibers. However, the introduction of natural material systems increases uncertainties in structural performance and fabrication parameters. The development process of coreless wound composite parts must thus be approached from the bottom up, treating the material system as an integral part of design and evaluation. Existing design and fabrication methods, as well as equipment, are adjusted to emphasize material aspects throughout the development, increasing the importance of material characterization and scalability evaluation. The reciprocity of material characterization and the fabrication process is highlighted and contributes to a non-linear, cyclical workflow. The implementation of extensions and adaptations are showcased in the development of the livMatS pavilion, a first attempt at coreless filament winding using natural material systems in architecture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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40 pages, 14007 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Off-Site Construction in Desert Environments: Zero-Energy Houses as Case Studies

by Zahraa Alshikh, Esra Trepci and Edwin Rodriguez-Ubinas

Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11909; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511909 - 02 Aug 2023

Viewed by 2260

Abstract

The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources, and the building sector accounts for around 40% of energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. To contribute to the need for more sustainable solutions, this research analyzed and highlighted the benefits of off-site construction, utilizing eleven zero-energy prefabricated houses from the Solar Decathlon Middle East competition as case studies. The study used construction data documented by the competition organizers, such as drawings, manuals, photos, and in-person observations during the assembly process. The comparative analysis focused on the construction categories, types of solutions, structural materials, façade types, and building materials. The case studies featured both heavy and lightweight construction and three types of off-site construction: panelized, volumetric, and hybrid. The hybrid construction was the most utilized since it combines the advantages of less intensive on-site work of the volumetric solutions with the transportation benefits of 2D elements. The designers justified their selection of timber as a structural material based on its low environmental impact. In addition, they enhanced the environmental benefits of off-site construction by selecting eco-friendly materials and solutions that increase the efficiency of the houses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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Review

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32 pages, 13433 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Potential Contribution of Modular Volumetric Timber Buildings to Circular Construction: A State-of-the-Art Review Based on Literature and 60 Case Studies

by Jiayi Li, Lars Vabbersgaard Andersen and Markus Matthias Hudert

Sustainability 2023, 15(23), 16203; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152316203 - 22 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1549

Abstract

When facing the increasing demands of the housing market and balancing the requirements of sustainable development in the construction sector, building design methods should practise material conservation and adopt carbon reduction measures to alleviate the current environmental burden through the implementation of a circular economy approach. Volumetric modular timber design is recognised as a practical application to test the feasibility of a waste-reduced approach. Driven by the aim of further improving volumetric modular timber construction and increasing its use in a circular economy framework, this paper presents a case study review of 60 modular timber building projects constructed using volumetric modules. The dimensions, the architectural and structural design, and the manufacturing and assembly processes of the three-dimensional modular units were assessed to explore their potential for contributing to a circular built environment. The results show that the similarly sized modular volumetric timber units have the potential to serve different functions, and to be reused in subsequent projects. The stacking design allows modular volumetric units to be reused in a way that supports function conversion and satisfies project coordination criteria. The case studies illustrate that modular timber buildings are increasingly used for flexible design solutions, and to meet carbon emission reduction targets. The analysis results can address prevalent misconceptions regarding modular wood construction, provide interested parties with a better understanding, and promote the use of modular volumetric timber units in general. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prefabrication and Modularized Construction)

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