Point Supported Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) Assembly

Date: March 21, 2024
Designer: Houman Ganjali, Caleb Mueller

Objectives and Constraints

  • Objective: Convert STL models into editable models. Since previous attempts to 3D print have failed, edit/scale existing models for strength and print the 5 pieces to assemble.
  • Constraints: CLT model must be multi-color.

Materials and Tools

  • Software: Autodesk Fusion
  • Materials: Polycarbonate filament
  • Equipment: Bambu Lab X1C 3D printer and digital calipers

Phases of Development

I. Conversion

  • The previously printed models were provided in STL mesh format from AutoCAD. These were imported into Fusion and converted to solid bodies.

II. CAD Modelling and Prototyping

  • To prevent the 3D printed cylinders from snapping, the diameters were increased by 2mm (with an increase in all hole diameters of 2.4mm for fit). The large panel piece was edited to appear as cross-laminated timber panels and separated into 3 bodies for multi-color printing to accent the orientation of the timber stacking.

III. Printing of Final Assembly

  • The pieces seen in Figure 1 were initially printed in carbon fiber nylon, but this material proved to be too brittle for this application, even with increased cylinder diameters. The final product was printed in PLA as it was in the past, as the dimension changes ensured sufficient strength. The middle CLT model was printed in 2 colors using the Bambu AMS system.

Skills Developed

  • Converting 3D mesh files into solids.
  • Multi-color printing with AMS system.
  • 3D printing support structures.
  • 3D CAD tolerances.

Support and Resources

  • Grad Student: Houman Ganjali (provided CAD files)

Product Images

  • Figure 1: 3D models in Fusion

Client Feedback

“Overall, the quality of the print was decent with a clean end finish. Slender parts were fused to the larger parts very well resulting in an acceptable robustness needed for frequent assembling and disassembling that the model will experience, given the print is meant to be used as a demonstration of the structural system in classes and conferences. The use of different colors on individual parts made the model more illustrative. As it is, other than the colors used in the model which do not match the actual material i.e., cross laminated timber and glue laminated timber, and steel, nothing about the model needs to be changed/improved. Thanks for the help and great job on the print”

  • Houman Ganjal