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Innovative Sustainable Connections: Advancing High-Rise Prefabricated Modular Steel Structures through AI and Circular Economy Principles

Project description

AI for improved prefabricated modular steel structures

The construction industry is witnessing a growing demand for sustainable methods. Low-rise prefabricated volumetric modular steel (PFVMS) structures effectively manage loads through inter-modular connections (IMCs). However, high-rise versions often rely on concrete cores, emphasising the necessity for improved connections while maintaining sustainability. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the MODULARIZATION project aims to enhance PFVMS construction by integrating sustainability and AI. It will develop a fully bolted, reusable connection system to reduce waste and enhance structural stability. The project includes simulations to analyse load transfer and seismic performance, using AI techniques such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). Overall, the project seeks to advance sustainable practices and revolutionise modular construction.

Objective

The construction industry is at a crossroads where the demand for sustainable and efficient building methods is rapidly increasing. Low-rise prefabricated volumetric modular steel (PFVMS) structures effectively handle vertical and lateral loads through inter-modular connections (IMCs). However, high-rise PFVMS structures face limitations due to their reliance on concrete core structures for lateral load resistance, highlighting a gap in connecting modular units with concrete core tubes while maintaining the sustainable nature of PFVMS structures. MODULARIZATION addresses this gap by advancing PFVMS construction through sustainability principles, circular economy, and artificial intelligence. While PFVMS buildings are recognized for their efficiency, existing assembly methods struggle with structural stability, sustainability, flexibility, and waste management challenges. MODULARIZATION proposes a groundbreaking, fully bolted, size-flexible connection system that allows for disassembly and reuse, thereby reducing the need for on-site welding and minimizing construction waste. MODULARIZATION includes experimental studies and finite element simulations to investigate the load transfer mechanisms, seismic performance, and failure modes of modular connections. Advanced artificial intelligence techniques, including Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), will be employed for enhanced data analysis and parametric research. Additionally, Cellular Automata (CA) and Genetic Algorithms (GA) will be used to develop a comprehensive model addressing material and geometric nonlinearities, resulting in accurate design methodologies for the connection's bearing capacity and stiffness. MODULARIZATION is intended to contribute to the circular economy substantially, sustainability in the construction industry, and revolutionize modular construction practices.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

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HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

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(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

CITY ST GEORGES UNIVERSITY OF LONDON
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 260 347,92
Address
NORTHAMPTON SQUARE
EC1V 0HB LONDON
United Kingdom

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Region
London Inner London — East Haringey and Islington
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

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