Application of Computer Vision and Parametric Design Algorithms for the Reuse of Construction Materials

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Authors: Roberto Moya-Jiménez, Andrea Goyes-Balladares, Gen Moya-Jiménez, Andrés Medina-Moncayo, Bolívar Chávez-Ortiz, Carolina Obando-Navas, Santiago Arias-Granda
Cited by: 2
References: 30

Abstract

The construction industry remains one of the main contributors to environmental degradation due to its high material consumption and massive waste generation. This study introduces Granizzo, a hybrid methodological framework that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), parametric design, and digital fabrication to transform construction and demolition waste (CDW) into sustainable architectural mosaics. The workflow involves material selection, AI-driven classification of fragments, generative design algorithms for pattern optimization, and CNC-based experimental prototyping. A dataset comprising brick, cement, marble, glass, and stone fragments was analyzed using a Random Forest classifier, achieving an average accuracy above 90%. Parametric design algorithms based on circle packing and tessellation achieved up to 92% surface coverage, reducing voids and optimizing formal diversity compared to manually assembled mosaics. Prototypes fabricated with CNC molds exhibited 35% shorter assembly times and 20% fewer voids, confirming the technical feasibility of the proposed process. A preliminary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) revealed measurable environmental benefits in energy savings and CO2 reduction. The findings suggest that Granizzo constitutes a replicable methodological platform that merges digital precision and sustainable materiality, enabling a circular approach to architectural production and aligning with contemporary challenges of design innovation, material reuse, and computational creativity.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Innovations in Concrete and Construction Materials Recycled Aggregate Concrete Performance BIM and Construction Integration

Publication details

Journal / source
Buildings
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
16
Issue
1
Pages
184–184
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN