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HoriBri

Horizontal Bricks: Digitally Fabricated Interlocking Floor Slabs

Abstract

This project investigates the shape space of reusable floor slab systems designed for circular construction through dry, detachable, and modular connections enabled by geometrically interlocking elements. By avoiding wet joints, the approach promotes full reusability and adaptability. Two design variants are experimentally evaluated: purely interlocking concrete elements and systems enhanced with threaded and post-tensioned external reinforcement. To realize these concepts, the project develops a multimodal digital fabrication workflow that integrates 3D concrete printing, in-process reinforcement, robotic casting, and robotic milling to achieve high-precision dry joint geometries. Structural performance is optimized through parametric design and topology optimization with periodicity constraints, targeting maximal strength with minimal material consumption. Initial investigations focus on regular assemblies based on a single standard element, followed by more flexible configurations combining multiple shapes to improve alignment with principal stress trajectories. The project integrates expertise in geometric optimization, numerical simulation, and physical prototyping to rigorously assess structural behavior, fabrication precision, and feasibility of assembly and disassembly.

The Team behind the project

  • Leif Kobbelt
    Prof. Dr. rer. nat.
    Leif Kobbelt
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Computer Graphics, Geometry and Multimedia

    sekretariati8@informatik.rwth-aachen.de
  • Sven Klinkel
    Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil.
    Sven Klinkel
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Structural Analysis and Dynamics

    klinkel@lbb.rwth-aachen.de
  • Martin Claßen
    © M. Wother.
    Prof. Dr.-Ing.
    Martin Claßen
    Principal Investigator
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair and Institute of Structural Concrete

    mclassen@imb.rwth-aachen.de
  • Bennet Weingartz
    M.Sc.
    Bennet Weingartz
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Computer Graphics, Geometry and Multimedia

    weingartz@informatik.rwth-aachen.de
  • Joshua Sevindik
    M.Sc.
    Joshua Sevindik
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair of Structural Analysis and Dynamics

    sevindik@lbb.rwth-aachen.de
  • Felix Menzel
    M.Sc.
    Felix Menzel
    Research Assistant
    RWTH Aachen University
    Chair and Institute of Structural Concrete

    fmenzel@imb.rwth-aachen.de