Modular timber system revitalises vacant buildings
BFH researchers are developing a modular system made of wood to quickly and flexibly revitalise vacant buildings for temporary use. The first prototype is already being used by a physiotherapist in a former factory building in Nidau.
There are many vacant buildings and brownfield sites in Switzerland that offer great potential for temporary use. Such temporary uses help to make unused areas attractive again and at the same time conserve building land and resources. However, these vacant buildings are often not immediately usable as they only consist of steel or concrete shells and offer neither climatic nor acoustic conditions for utilisation.
To overcome this challenge, researchers at Bern University of Applied Sciences and partners have developed a modular construction system made of wood. The aim is to quickly and easily utilise these brownfield sites for various uses such as studios, shops, co-working spaces or flats.
Modular system for flexible use
The modular system is based on prefabricated modules that can be assembled into rooms as required. A digital generator visualises the composition of the modules in 3D. All components are manufactured in a digital production chain and then assembled into various modular solutions.
The first result of this project is a prototype of a room module with a surface area of 3.6 by 3.6 metres. It consists of a load-bearing structure and prefabricated elements for the floor, walls and roof. This prototype is already in use in the former “Dispo” factory building in Nidau, where a physiotherapist has set up his practice.
Challenges and solutions
The biggest challenge in developing the modular system was to create a module that is quick and easy to assemble. Two people with no previous technical knowledge should be able to assemble the module within a day and dismantle it just as quickly. The connection of the wall elements in particular presented the team with technical challenges, which they were able to solve by using short screw threads. This enabled them to develop a stable yet easy-to-remove fastening.
Future prospects for the modular system
The project is now entering the next phase. Based on the experience gained with the prototype, the modules will be further optimised. Tests and measurements are planned to make the system ready for series production. In collaboration with partners from industry, the modular construction kit should soon be available on a larger scale and offer scope for new uses throughout Switzerland.