MOOC: Advanced Timber Plate Structural Design

© 2023 EPFL

© 2023 EPFL

A trans-disciplinary approach in structural design and digital architecture of timber structures with advanced manufacturing workflow.


The proposed MOOC intends to foster trans-disciplinary design approach in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) for timber structures. It outlines an innovative and sustainable methodology with examples from recent construction projects.

The primary development goal for this MOOC is to spread the innovative design approach in AEC we developed at EPFL. Therefore, the MOOC results from the compilation of five doctoral theses, research-industry technology transfer with our industry partner, and a flagship structural system with has been constructed. Accordingly, it will be beneficial for not only graduate students but also industrial professionals and civil engineering, architecture, and construction society.

The MOOC will introduce its audience the development a set of computational tools for geometry processing, mesh and network processing, computer-aided structural engineering design, and digital fabrication. The aim is to introduce a teaching module that systematically transfers both academic findings and industrial experience to the professional society. It also covers technological advancements of advanced timber construction and real-world applications. The latter, specifically, could be inspiring not only for graduate students, but also for professional engineers and architects.

The course is open, enroll now!