University of Tennessee Research Foundation

Technology Transfer & Licensing

Biomimetic Topology Optimization and Robotic Fabrication of 3D Printed High-Performance Construction Systems​

The Problem

As much as 30% of all building materials delivered to a construction site end up as waste. Further, construction debris accounts for nearly 33% of the total worldwide waste production, causing major financial and environmental impacts. 3D printing of building components can reduce waste but has increased costs when utilizing traditional designs.​

The Solution

A researcher at the University of Tennessee has developed a robotically-controlled additive manufacturing computational design method and platform utilizing optimized biomimetic designs to 3D print full-size building panels. When compared to traditional panels, these panels have higher structural performance, require 34% less material, include integrated wiring and plumbing, and generate zero on-site waste.​

Diagram of a wall with a person standing in front of it

Benefits

Benefit
Sustainable and effective design - 34% reduction of building materials and zero on-site waste.
Full-size panels can include integrated electrical and plumbing for easy assembly.
3D printed - repeatable and customizable designs.

More Information

  • Gregory Sechrist, JD
  • Associate Technology Manager, Multi Campus Office
  • 865-974-1882 | gsechris@tennessee.edu
  • UTRF Reference ID: 21055
  • Patent Status: Patent Pending

Innovators

Maged Guerguis​

Headshot of Professor Maged Guerguis

Assistant Professor, School of Architecture, UT Knoxville

Professor Guerguis is the director of Soft Boundaries. His current research focuses on the development of high-performance integrated construction systems using large-scale additive manufacturing, robotic fabrication, novel materials, and advanced computational design methods.​ Prior to joining UT, Guerguis was a senior designer and a design researcher at Skidmore Owings and Merrill (SOM) in Chicago. While at SOM, he led the design of AMIE 1.0, the world’s largest 3D-printed polymer structure in collaboration with UT Governor’s Chair and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). ​ Guerguis is a designer, researcher, and educator who has received recognition with awards such as the AIA Chicago Divine Detail Award, United States Green Building Council Emerald Award, Architizer A+ Awards, Fast Company World Changing Ideas Award, 2019 3D Pioneers Award, and the 2022 ACSA National Diversity Award.

Read more about Maged Guerguis​