Planning Algorithms for In-Situ Production of Free-Form Concrete Panels (2018-03)¶

Various materials are used when fabricating free-form panels, including glass, aluminum, titanium, and glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC), in addition to steel and concrete. Concrete has excellent structural stability, constructability, and economic efficiency, as well as the advantages of shape, thickness, forming of the finished surface and homogeneity of material. As a result, fast, low-cost technology has been developed to ensure the quality of free-form concrete panels (FCPs). FCPs, like precast concrete members, are generally constructed during in-plant production, on-site transportation, and installation. However, if FCPs are produced in site, cost savings of approximately 20% can be achieved due to savings in transportation and overhead at plants. In order to produce and install FCPs in site with restricted time and area, it is necessary to analyze and systematically link the related processes and influence factors. The purpose of this study is to develop planning algorithms for the insitu production of free-form concrete panels. For this study, the relationship between the factors affecting the production plan of FCPs was mathematically established. The algorithms proposed in this study support the quick and easy establishment of in-situ production plans, contributing to cost reduction, according to various influencing factors such as the number of CNC machines, number of production cycles, production time, production area, and lead time.