Overview
In the research project, an innovative room module system for multi-storey buildings is being developed to market maturity. The focus is on sustainable construction with resource-conserving raw materials and a recyclable construction process from planning to production, assembly and dismantling. The system consists of a primary supporting structure made of reinforced concrete and a secondary supporting structure made of wooden modules (“EcoBoxes”), which are pushed into a shelving system. The project is designed as a BIM project, with proof of sustainability through Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) calculations.
Research questions
- How can a reference process model for prefabrication and logistics be developed on the basis of lean principles and modular approaches?
- How can construction and logistics processes be modeled and linked to sustainability indicators?
- To what extent do parameters such as geometry, weight and installation sequence influence the control of prefabrication and logistics processes?
- How can means of transportation and logistics concepts be optimally defined and implemented?
- How can BIM be used to define processes for planning, prefabrication, logistics, construction and dismantling in order to return materials to cycles and optimize sustainability?
- How can moisture, thermal and sound insulation in modular timber construction be investigated and optimized in real terms?
- Which sustainable heating, ventilation and cooling systems are the most efficient and resource-saving for modular timber construction?
Scientific approach and methods
Logistics:
Investigation of the prefabrication of standard elements with a focus on modularity and sustainability. Production and logistics processes are analyzed and key figures for process evaluation are defined. Material flow and provisioning concepts (just-in-time/sequence) are validated in the real laboratory.
BIM:
Development of building data models to simulate climate engineering and life cycle assessments. Data covers the entire life cycle, with a focus on CO2 reduction and material recycling.
Building physics:
Investigation of moisture influences, thermal bridges and sound insulation. Analyses are carried out on modules and façade elements as well as through preliminary tests and mock-ups.
Climate systems:
Investigation of efficient heating and cooling systems such as monosplit systems and infrared heaters, with tests on comfort and energy efficiency on real modules.
Targeted results
Logistics:
- Efficient, standardized modules/assemblies.
- Reference process model with key figures.
- Validated material flow and provisioning concepts.
BIM:
- BIM goals and use cases for sustainable construction.
- CO2 reduction and material recycling concepts.
Building physics:
- Optimized façade elements and building physics for moisture, thermal and sound insulation.
- Validated sound transmission models.
Climate systems:
- Suitable heating and cooling systems for modular timber construction, optimized in practical tests
