The Reduction of Construction Duration by Implementing Contour Crafting (3D Printing)
Carel M. Rouhana1, Michel S Aoun2, Farah S Faek3, Mahmoud S. Eljazzar4 & Farook R. Hamzeh5
1Master Candidate, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut Riad El-Solh 1107 2020, Lebanon,[email protected]2Masters Candidate, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut Riad El-Solh 1107 2020, Lebanon, [email protected]
3 Masters Candidate, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut Riad El-Solh 1107 2020, Lebanon, [email protected]
4Masters Candidate, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, American University of Beirut, Beirut Riad El-Solh 1107 2020, Lebanon, [email protected]
5Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, 406E Bechtel, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh-Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon, [email protected]
Abstract
Construction methods are evolving daily due to the increasing challenges and complexity in projects which require fast, safe, and efficient methods to deliver their scope. Contour crafting (CC) is a 3D printing method developed for constructing big elements, it is based on printing the building layer by layer using special material ejection. This method promises an automated construction process that is safe, fast and reliable. 3D printing helps us make one step further towards lean principles by minimizing waste in construction duration and increasing Poka-Yoke (error-proofing) through activity automation. Furthermore, it guarantees an evolution in building textures that increases the quality of life for its residents without having a negative impact on public safety and welfare. In this paper we study the effectiveness of this technique in reducing construction duration using computer simulation and comparing the building of a house using the conventional construction method with the Contour Crafting method. Results give an overview of the potential of improvement in the construction field; and how waste can be reduced by the industrialization of the construction process which facilitates the implementation of lean philosophy. Findings suggest that contour crafting can reduce project duration by automating the construction process.
Keywords
3D-Priniting, Contour Crafting, Waste in Construction, Production System Design, Industrialization, Lean construction.
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Reference
Rouhana, C. M. , Aoun, M. S. , Faek, F. S. , Eljazzar, M. S. & Hamzeh, F. R. 2014. The Reduction of Construction Duration by Implementing Contour Crafting (3D Printing), 22nd Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction , 1031-1042. doi.org/
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