Investigations on scaffold-free masonry vaulting techniques. From the past to the future of efficient and sustainable construction methods

Department

Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Bergamo

Main research activities/topics/projects

The research project investigates the potential reintroduction of masonry-based structural systems—specifically arches, vaults, and domes—into contemporary construction practices through the integration of advanced digital technologies. While such systems historically demonstrated remarkable material efficiency and structural intelligence, their current application remains marginal due to high labor costs, declining craft knowledge, technical uncertainties, and regulatory constraints. These limitations become even more evident in the context of scaffold-free vaulting techniques, which require a high degree of geometric precision, construction expertise, and coordination.

The project addresses these challenges by proposing a hybrid methodological framework that combines parametric design, principles of historically self-balanced construction, and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies. Parametric design enables the generation and control of complex geometries based on structural logic, facilitating the design of optimized forms that inherently satisfy equilibrium conditions. At the same time, AR serves as a cognitive and operational support tool during construction, assisting in real-time tracing, positioning, and verification of building elements without the need for extensive physical guides or scaffolding.

A central objective of the research is to evaluate how AR can reduce the cognitive load associated with complex construction tasks, shorten the learning curve for non-expert builders, and improve geometric accuracy and execution speed. Through experimental case 

studies—such as the construction of thin-tile vaults and other self-supporting masonry systems—students and researchers will engage in comparative analyses between traditional construction methods and AR-assisted processes. These experiments will be assessed using both quantitative metrics (e.g., construction time, dimensional accuracy, productivity) and qualitative indicators (e.g., user experience, perceived workload through tools such as NASA-TLX).

The project is inherently interdisciplinary, bridging architectural design, structural engineering, digital fabrication, and human–computer interaction. Participants will develop competencies in parametric modeling, AR workflow design, and experimental construction, while also critically reflecting on the cultural and environmental implications of reviving masonry techniques. In particular, the research emphasizes the potential of scaffold-free construction to reduce material consumption, minimize waste, and lower the environmental impact compared to conventional frame-based systems reliant on reinforced concrete and steel.

Ultimately, the project aims to define a set of best practices and operational guidelines for the implementation of AR-assisted masonry construction. By doing so, it contributes both to the preservation and reinterpretation of historical construction knowledge and to the development of an alternative, sustainable construction paradigm. The outcomes are expected to inform future research, support innovation in the construction industry, and open new trajectories for the integration of digital technologies with manual craftsmanship.

Working language 

English, Italian 

Special entry requirements

Digital computation, digital fabrication, structural or architectural design skills. 

Duration in months (min-max)

Master research: 2 - 3

PhD sandwich: 2 - 6

Post Doc: 2 - 6