How can a digital concept be transformed into a large-scale free-form glulam structure?
The MNKC research project ZP06 explores solutions for integrating advanced digital design with a precise and practically feasible manufacturing process. Findings from research associated with the project were presented at the international European Conference on Computing in Construction (EC³) in July 2026.
Creating large-scale curved free-form glulam structures requires more than simply developing a digital model. Complex geometry must be transformed and adapted to the properties of the material, the manufacturing technology and the capabilities of the equipment, while preserving the intended form and required level of precision.
This transition from a digital concept to a structure that can be manufactured in practice is examined in the scientific paper “Model to Press: Digital Dataflow for the Design, Rationalization, and Manufacture of Free-Form Glulam Beams”. The paper describes a digital data flow that connects the design and geometric rationalisation of free-form glulam structures with their preparation for industrial production.
The research is being conducted within the “New Wood-Based Materials and Technologies” research programme of the Forest Sector Competence Centre (MNKC). The organisation responsible for implementing the ZP06 research project, “Development of Manufacturing Technology and an Equipment Prototype for Curved Glued-Laminated Timber, Enabling the Modelling and Production of Large-Scale Free-Form Timber Structures”, is SIA “ZAZA TIMBER Production”.
Within ZP06, technological solutions and an equipment prototype are being developed for manufacturing large-scale curved free-form glulam structures. One of the key objectives is to create an integrated digital design and manufacturing process that enables data describing complex three-dimensional structures to be used in practical production.
SIA “Meža un koksnes produktu pētniecības un attīstības institūts” (MeKA) is also involved in carrying out the research and development work. As part of ZP06, MeKA collaborates with researcher Tom Svilans, who represents the Royal Danish Academy.
Findings from the scientific work associated with ZP06 were presented at the international European Conference on Computing in Construction (EC³) in July 2026. The work was presented by Tom Svilans. The authors of the paper are Tom Svilans, Edgars Rudzītis, Jānis Iejavs, Edvīns Grants and Kristaps Zīverts. The scientific paper was produced through collaboration between ZAZA TIMBER, MeKA and Tom Svilans.
Presenting the research findings at the international EC³ conference provides an opportunity to introduce the solutions developed within ZP06 to a wider audience of researchers, technology developers and construction industry professionals. It also demonstrates the potential of research and development carried out in Latvia in the design and manufacture of complex timber structures.
The scientific publication and presentation materials are available on the EC³ website: https://ec-3.org/publication/ec32026_412/.
Further information about SIA “ZAZA TIMBER Production”’s participation in the conference and the implementation of the project is available on the ZAZA TIMBER website: publicity.
