Automated System to Feed UHPC to 3D Printer

3D printing of cementitious materials in construction offers the potential benefits of reducing construction timelines and costs, as well as increased design flexibility, ultimately contributing to more efficient and sustainable practices. The integration of 3D printing technology presents an exceptional opportunity to revolutionize the Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) approach. However, challenges related to material supply interruptions and maintaining the material workability/quality pose significant barriers to realizing its full potential in the construction industry. Drawing from the latest advancements in 3D concrete printing at Florida International University’s Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (ABC-UTC), this research project aims to bridge the existing knowledge gap by developing an automated system for real-time mixing, feeding, and quality control of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) to 3D printers. The proposed system includes state-of-the-art storage silos, pneumatic conveyors, customizable conveyor belt systems, and advanced control algorithms, all augmented with precision sensors. This integrated system is designed to ensure precise batching, mixing, material supply, and quality control throughout the printing process, enabled by continuous monitoring and real-time adjustments via sensor technology. This automation minimizes manual intervention, mitigates the risk of human errors, and maintains high-quality material, thus improving the structural integrity of the printed elements and structures. The project's primary objective is to ensure seamless integration between 3D printing technology and concrete supply mechanisms through a continuous and uninterrupted flow of UHPC to various 3D printers. The potential benefits of this research project include faster construction, enhanced structural integrity, and reduced environmental impact through optimized material usage.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $105000
• Sponsor Organizations:

  Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (ABC-UTC)

  Florida International University
  10555 W. Flagler Street
  Miami, FL  United States  33174

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Performing Organizations:

  Florida International University

  10555 West Flagler Street
  Miami, FL  United States  33174
• Start Date: 20240101
• Expected Completion Date: 20250630
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automation; Bridge construction; Quality control; Three dimensional printing; Ultra high performance concrete
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Construction; Highways; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01924831
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Accelerated Bridge Construction University Transportation Center (ABC-UTC)
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Jul 21 2024 2:47PM