Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Masonry construction remains labor-intensive, with current block placement predominantly dependent on workers’ empirical knowledge. Lack of systematic cutting plans induces substantial material waste and rework, adversely affecting sustainability. We propose a two-phase optimization framework to automate and enhance masonry block arrangement efficiency. Phase 1 decomposes masonry structures into optimizable subregions by geometric features, documenting each region’s geometry and position to generate optimization datasets. Phase 2 implements a computational module using the Social Network Search (SNS) algorithm to optimize subregion layouts, recording post-optimization block coordinates and dimensions. Finally, it materializes layout configurations and generates block quantity schedules to provide precise material demand data. An integrated prototype system was implemented in four specialized block arrangement scenarios and one building case study, validating both functionality and efficiency.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Lu Jia, Tian Qiu, Ruopu Yu, Weizhen Lu, Zhongcun Liu
Institution: Nanchang University
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4413683712