The Robotic Craftsman: Robotic Fabrication for Complex Timber Connections

Timber is one of the most sustainable and renewable construction materials; coupled with computational tools engineered timber has the potential to be redefined as a digital-age material for non-standard architecture. This research employs contemporary digital design and fabrication techniques to develop complex, CNC based parametric connections for engineered timber construction Whilst CNC joinery that utilises machines with between three and five axes is increasingly common, the introduction of the six-axis robotic arm as a machining tool provides greater freedom of movement and a wider range of complex procedures. As a result, there is more design potential for interlocking timber- only connections that were previously inefficient to fabricate. This research draws from traditional Japanese timber craftsmanship, which offers unique structural and sustainable advantages. Combining this knowledge with computational tools has led to new complex customisable connections suitable for contemporary fabrication, and a revitalisation of timber craftsmanship in this digital age.