← Back to Projects

(Sin)Wall

Robotic Pick-and-Place Assembly, Zurich • Zurich, Switzerland

@Gramazio Kohler Research, ETH Zurich

View PPT Slides (16:9)Robotic MasonryDigital FabricationGramazio Kohler ResearchETH ZurichAlgorithmic DesignRobotics
(Sin)Wall - Robotic pick-and-place assembly and sinusoidal brick masonry simulation

Developed at the Chair of Architecture and Digital Fabrication (Gramazio Kohler Research) at ETH Zurich, (Sin)Wall investigates automated robotic assembly workflows for non-standard masonry walls.

The project translates sinusoidal mathematical functions into continuous three-dimensional brick wall topologies. By adjusting individual brick rotation angles and horizontal offsets along a harmonic wave curve, the system produces dynamic shadow play, structural self-bracing stiffness, and acoustic dispersion without requiring custom masonry units.

An industrial robotic arm performs precision pick-and-place positioning, following computed trajectory vectors that ensure collision avoidance while depositing standard bricks at millimeter tolerances.

Parametric Sinusoidal Geometry & Structural Wave Formations

The geometry algorithm modulates amplitude and wavelength along the wall height. The resulting undulating cross-section increases the wall’s effective moment of inertia, providing lateral self-stability without traditional mortar reinforcements.

Robotic Precision & Automated Masonry Fabrication

The robotic end-effector accurately grasps, reorients, and positions each standard brick. Parametric fabrication scripts calibrate gripper tolerances and automated vision feedback to achieve stable dry-stacked and adhesive bonded assemblies.

View All Projects