Resilient Modular Shelter for a Changing Climate

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Published: Jan 30, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/ta.43664
Keywords:
human shelter post-disaster topology optimization additive manufacturing mold design
Dimitrios Gonidakis
National Technical University of Athens
Evangelia Frangedaki
National Technical University of Athens
Stefanos Voulgaris
National Technical University of Athens
Stavros Chatzielefteriou
Georgios Kazakis
Nikolaos Lagaros
Abstract

Climate-driven disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity, underscoring the need for shelters that combine rapid deployability, structural durability, and sustainability. This paper presents a modular shelter system designed for quick deployment and operability across diverse climates. Structural performance is optimized by coupling topology-optimization workflows with additive manufacturing, which simultaneously reduces material usage and component weight. To minimize environmental impact and construction time, the system employs reusable molds in conjunction with locally available construction materials. The shelter’s load-bearing capacity and serviceability were evaluated through scaled-prototype experiments that simulated wind and seismic demands. Results confirm adequate strength and stiffness for emergency occupancy while preserving flexibility for post-disaster reconstruction scenarios. The proposed solution advances a climate-adjustable, resource-efficient shelter that integrates emergency response needs with longer-term rebuilding requirements.

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  • Sustainable Development
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