Our Goal
The application of robotic manufacturing processes is an innovative approach that could be used to build energy efficient, customizable, bespoke homes on site.
Workshop 1: Foundations of Robotic Fabrication & 3-Year Project Synthesis
Date: 7 May 2026 Location: Ground Floor, Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS), UEL Cost: Free
Summary
The key aim of this workshop is to provide general knowledge and information on 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) with a focus on compliance with the UK Building Regulations and Standards, specifically on Approved Documents A, C, and L (Structure, Moisture, and Conservation of fuel/energy). The theoretical discussion will follow with the demonstration of Robotic fabrication and 3DCP prototypes.
Workshop 2: Computational Logic & Robotic Path-Planning
Date: 4 June 2026 Location: Computer Lab, Architecture & Visual Arts (AVA) Building, UEL Cost: Free (Mandatory Prerequisite for Workshop 3)
Summary
This technical session moves delegates from theoretical understanding to practical operation of Robotic Fabrication. Participants will master the scripting required to command and control a 6-axis industrial ABB robot, focusing on the translation of complex geometries into "printable" G-Code (toolpath). This workshop ensures all participants possess the technical competency required to operate the hardware during the final session required for Workshop 3 (explained below).
Core Modules
- Parametric Foundations: Introduction to the Rhino + Grasshopper environment specifically for additive manufacturing.
- Kinematic Simulation: Scripting robotic movement, defining tool-center points (TCP), and managing axis constraints to avoid singularities.
- G-Code & Toolpath Optimization: Translating complex 3D geometry into "printable" paths, focusing on constant velocity and extrusion synchronization.
Workshop 3: Advanced 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) Practitioner
Date: June 2026 (Mid-to-Late June) Location: Ground Floor, RDCS, UEL Cost: Paid
Summary
This workshop focuses on the volatile interface between robotic kinematics and material rheology, providing hands-on experience on managing the variables of 3D Concrete Printing. Participants will have the opportunity to get first-hand experience on Robotic 3D Concrete Printing including H&S requirements, Preparations/3DCP Setup, Demonstration of Equipment, Concrete Mixing, Dry run, Print and Cleaning Processes etc.
Core Modules
- Material Rheology & Mix Design: The "Chemistry of Printing." Adjusting slump and set-time for structural stability.
- Hardware Interface: Connecting the Grasshopper scripts developed in Workshop 2 to the physical controller of the UEL robotic arm.
- Live Structural Print: A full-scale extrusion of a complex geometric component, followed by a real-time critique of layer adhesion and tolerance.
- Certification: Issuance of a UEL Knowledge Exchange certificate in Robotic Construction.