Enable the use of robotic 3D printing as a construction process

The subject concerns the significance of architecture and spatial design with regards to the relationship between humans and the built environment. The subject’s areas of application are the planning of the built environment, artistic representation, design, creation, use and change.

The research within the subject aims to develop theories and methods, as well as to collect and systematize knowledge and experience to support the development of the subject of architecture and the discipline of architecture. The subject area can include social science, natural science, technical, humanistic, aesthetic, and artistic problems.

Within the framework of this doctoral position, the topic is directed towards digital manufacturing, and will include mainly technical and artistic questions, and the research will focus on spatial and material production techniques, the connection between technology and form, and practical application.

Project description

The doctoral student will work within a project financed by the Swedish Construction Development Fund (SBUF).

In this project, basic knowledge, tools and methodology are developed to enable the use of robotic 3d printing as a construction process. These can lead to concrete building systems that can be further developed into new business models, but also lay the foundation for future industry-related development projects. Specifically, we expect to make available methods to connect design tools with manufacturing methods, integrate data collection across multiple scales in robotic 3d printing, and create a process that is robust to variances in response to partially unstructured conditions.

By integrating data collection and real-time feedback to design tools and models, conditions are also created to use alternative materials that can replace today’s energy-intensive materials. It primarily includes the use of unfired clay as a binder, but also bio-based materials. Such materials potentially reduce climate impact, but as they are dynamic and react in terms of shape to, for example, moisture content, they require an interactive and responsive design and manufacturing process.

With the project, we see a potential to break the opposing relationship between quality and efficiency that currently dominates the construction sector. Through computer-driven design, digital manufacturing and simulation, unique, location-adapted and high-quality solutions can be produced without this entailing an increased cost. It provides the opportunity to produce buildings with greater value for both end users and businesses.

Work duties

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also include  teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The duties of the doctoral student within the research project will also include:

• Development of suitable materials
• Programming of robots for extruding materials
• Sensors and data collection
• Development of a design process that links the above to the design of built environments
• Authoring of publications and participation in conferences and exhibitions

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Architecture if the applicant has:

• at least 120 credits in subjects of relevance to the field and sufficient proficiency in Swedish or English to be able to complete the programme.

Additional requirements

• Good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Experience of working with robots in architecture and construction.
• Good skills in relevant programming languages and frameworks (e.g. C#, Python, COMPAS, ABB RobotStudio).
• Experience of working with 3d printing for architecture.
• Master’s degree in architecture.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Other assessment criteria:

• Good knowledge of Swedish, in speech and writing.
• International experience of project work in robotics and architecture
• Experience of teaching in the subject area

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment

Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).