Comparative evaluation of robotically assembled discrete lattice systems for sustainable construction

Abstract

Additive manufacturing could improve the sustainability and efficiency of building construction, but current methods fall short. Continuous methods, such as 3-D printing, face challenges in error-correction, structural integrity, and accessible build volume, while assembly-based approaches typically require high mechanical precision, leading to costly and complex machines or off-site fabrication. This paper proposes robotically assembled discrete architected lattices, or voxels, as an in-situ construction method with low environmental impact and competitive speed and cost. Voxel-based structures can be scalably and incrementally assembled using distributed low-cost robots. The performance of multiple voxel types is compared against 3-D printed concrete, precast modular concrete, concrete masonry units, steel framing, and stick framing for a simplified 1-story building. The results indicate voxel-based systems can reduce embodied carbon by up to 76%–82% relative to 3-D printed concrete, with competitive cost and construction timelines, demonstrating the potential of distributed building-block assembly as a sustainable route to automated in-situ construction.