The course Digital Design and Automated Construction once again provided students with the opportunity to experience the complete digital workflow behind modern timber construction. This year, the course was expanded to include structural optimization and experimental validation, allowing students to follow the entire process from initial design to physical testing.

Working in teams, students developed their own structurally optimized timber beams and guided their projects through every stage of the digital value chain. The course combined computational design methods, digital fabrication technologies, and structural engineering principles in a hands-on learning environment.

The workflow included:

  • Parametric design and digital modelling
  • Structural optimization for material-efficient construction
  • Toolpath generation and CAM programming
  • Robotic milling using the IGCE six-axis industrial robot at the Robotics Laboratory in Groß-Enzersdorf
  • Quality control and evaluation of the manufactured components
  • Experimental validation through three-point bending tests at the Türkenschanze campus

The challenge was to achieve the highest possible material efficiency while maintaining sufficient structural performance. To evaluate the effectiveness of each design, all beams were tested experimentally until failure and their load-bearing capacities were compared.

Through this project, students gained practical experience with the entire digital construction process—from computational design and robotic manufacturing to structural testing and performance assessment. The course demonstrated how digital tools can support resource-efficient construction while providing students with valuable hands-on experience in emerging technologies.