Advancing precision
less concrete, more innovation in staircase design
Additional information
Authors
Amicarelli F.,
Quadranti E.,
Paglia C.,
Vasiliki Alexi E.,
Ariza I.,
Sinani M.,
Gramazio F.,
Kohler M.,
Lloret-Fritschi E.
Type
Article in conference proceedings
Year
2025
Language
English
Abstract
Standardization in concrete construction has reduced design flexibility and increased environmental impact. This research addresses the challenges associated with the construction of highly customized building elements, such as staircases, by combining three innovations: flexible and recyclable paper-based formwork, augmented reality (AR)-guided rebar assembly, and a concrete mix using recycled aggregates. These innovations are integrated for the construction of a real-size demonstrator consisting of three precast stair steps. Structural optimization methods, computational tools, and digital fabrication processes are used for the design, production, testing, and assessment of the demonstrator. Results indicate that the combination of paper-based formwork, AR-guided rebar assembly, and recycled concrete significantly reduces environmental impact, improves production efficiency, and enhances design flexibility. Comparative analysis reveals a 50% reduction in concrete usage and a 32% decrease in CO2- equivalent emissions relative to conventional precast stairs. The methodology presented is applicable for new and existing building projects and opens new pathways for further integration of digital technologies in concrete construction workflows.
Keywords
Augmented reality, Concrete, Digital fabrication, Paper formwork, Structural optimization, Sustainability
Conference proceedings
Architectural Informatics
Meeting name
30th International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA 2025)
Meeting place
The University of Tokyo, Japan
Meeting date
22-29 March 2025
Pages (or article number)
357-366
Place of publication
Tokyo
Volume
2
Diffusion
License
Rights reserved
Visibility
Public
Status open access
Gold
