Bio_Build_Botics
Research Project Development on Automation and Biomimetic Design for Sustainable Earth-Sheltered Construction
Description

After a protocol with École d'Ingénieurs (CESI), a research project will be developed through the funding of 4 internships, that will be integrated in a wider project "Generative Architectural Design: Promoting Human-Biome Interaction through Traditional Approaches and Emerging Technologies". This internship will be integrated into ongoing research at ISTAR-Iscte at the intersection of advanced architectural design and construction, focusing on reimagining human-nature coexistence through the integration of living systems with built structures. The research leverages artificial intelligence, structural biomimetics, and emerging technologies to develop methodologies for regenerative architecture. A key focus is on Earth-Sheltered Construction, addressing the challenge of automating its labor-intensive processes by integrating Humanoid Robotics with Biomimetic Design and Vernacular Knowledge. 

Challenge

This teamwork offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient built environments that actively participate in ecosystem regeneration and enhance human well-being. The research aims to overcome the limitations of traditional construction by developing adaptive and automated methods using humanoid robots, with applications in sustainable community housing, disaster relief shelters, and even extraterrestrial habitats. The work aligns with the growing interest in AI and robotics in construction. 

Approach
  • Phase 1: Research Initiation & Foundational Studies (Weeks 1-5) 

  • Introductory Study of Earth-Sheltered Construction & Vernacular Architecture  

  • Exploration of Robotics & Automation in Construction, and Biomimetic Principles  

  • Preliminary Investigation of Concept Integration in Simulated Environment  

 

  • Phase 2: In-Depth Research & Robotic Applications (Weeks 6-12) 

  • Comprehensive Literature Review (Advanced)  

  • Analysis of Vernacular Precedents & Biomimetic Processes for Robotic Fabrication  

  • Investigation of Humanoid Robotic Platforms & Simulation Environment Modeling  

  • Planning & Control Algorithms & Integration of Living Systems  

 

 

  • Phase 3: Documentation & Reporting (Weeks 13-14) 

Internal Partners
Research Centre Research Group Role in Project Begin Date End Date
ISTAR-Iscte Digital Living Spaces Partner 2025-07-14 2025-10-03
External Partners
Institution Country Role in Project Begin Date End Date
École d'Ingénieurs (CESI) France Partner 2025-07-14 2025-10-03
Project Team
Name Affiliation Role in Project Begin Date End Date
Mauro Costa Couceiro Integrated Researcher (ISTAR-Iscte); Principal Researcher 2025-08-05 2025-08-05
Project Fundings
Reference/Code Funding DOI Funding Type Funding Program Funding Amount (Global) Funding Amount (Local) Begin Date End Date
Erasmus+KA1 -- Award Erasmus+ - -- 14160 0 2025-07-14 2025-10-03
Publication Outputs

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Related Research Data Records

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Related References in the Media
Title News Media Entity Type Publication Date
Noite Europeia dos Investigadores - Direto RTP Interview 2025-09-27
Other Outputs

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Project Files

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With the objective to increase the research activity directed towards the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the possibility of associating scientific projects with the Sustainable Development Goals is now available in Ciência_Iscte. These are the Sustainable Development Goals identified for this project. For more detailed information on the Sustainable Development Goals, click here.

Research Project Development  on Automation and Biomimetic Design for Sustainable Earth-Sheltered Construction
2025-08-05
2025-11-05