Manufacturing double-curved glulam with robotic band saw cutting technique

摘要

CNC milling seems to be the only way to deal with complex structures in timber construction, despite its inefficiency in both material and time. Robotic band saw cutting has been proved to be an alternative solution for producing double-curved beams with high accuracy and efficiency. Despite its great potential, the processing capacity of robotic band saw has not been systematically explored. This research aims to develop a design and production framework for double-curved glulam through an in-depth research of robotic band saw cutting technique. Theoretical and experimental analyses were carried out to gain a deep understanding of its processing capabilities. A curvature-based design approach of glulam was proposed, together with a construction system that allow for optimized subdivision and connection, which has been further tested through a glulam installation. This research shows the possibility to integrate the capabilities of robotic band saw in early stage as driving factors for innovative timber structure design.