Earth & Robots: An Analogue – Digital Dialogue

This research explores the innovative potential of advancing traditional earth construction techniques with robotic technologies within an educational context. The aim is to create a shared knowledge alliance in contemporary digital architecture and construction, equipping students to navigate with cutting-edge technology. In response to global climate challenges, there is an increasing investigation into combining contemporary digital technologies with environmental and resource-efficient construction methods using natural materials. As a result, earth construction techniques have recently garnered attention for potential robotic applications. However, most research has concentrated on 3D-printed soil structures, with limited exploration of automating rammed-earth construction methods, especially for individual compressed earth blocks. The workshop presented focuses on robotically compressed earth blocks, exploring methods to refine these blocks using various processing tools attached to a robotic arm. This educational setting demonstrates significant potential for educating students within the merging field of architectural robotics by integrating human-material-machine interactions.