2024 Workshop on Next Generation Infrastructure and Sustainable Structural Solutions (NGI-SSS)

Invitation

You are cordially invited to attend the 2024 Workshop on Next Generation Infrastructure and Sustainable Structural Solutions (NGI-SSS), that will be hosted by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). The workshop will be held on the 6th of December 2024.

Introduction

This is the beginning of a transformative era in structural and civil engineering, characterized by the realization that the next generation of structures must be more aligned with nature - sustainable (green), and aesthetically "natural" (e.g. curved, nonlinear) - while also being efficiently constructed through advanced methods such as automated and/or industrialized manufacturing, and 3D printing. This shift is driven by the growing imperative to create built environments that are both ecologically responsible and visually harmonious. In response to this paradigm shift, there has been a surge of interest in innovative, sustainable structural solutions (e.g., novel structural forms and constructions methods) and bio-composite materials (e.g., on bamboo and timber). This workshop derives from the Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) strategic vision of our Department and also aligns with the GREAT Smart Cities initiative of HKUST. The research topics it will cover have been identified as the central directions of the NGI vision.

The focus is on green bio-composite structures (especially bamboo and timber structures) and sustainable engineering solutions, offering reduced carbon footprint and enhanced structural efficiency. The workshop also includes inter-disciplinary research challenges related to:

Sensors and smart structures for resilience: This explores the use of sensors and smart technologies to improve the resilience of structures, including real-time monitoring, damage detection, and adaptive response.

Modular structures: This topic examines the use of prefabricated modular construction techniques to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase quality.

Robotically constructed and 3D printed structures: This covers the use of advanced construction technologies to create stronger, lighter, and more efficient structures.

The workshop will feature presentations by renowned experts and scholars from around the world, exploring the latest advancements along the central directions of the NGI vision. Attendees will include structures and materials specialists, civil engineers, and even entrepreneurs engaged in the construction industry.

Organizers

Elias DIMITRAKOPOULOS (Professor) ilias@ust.hk

Tianju XUE (Assistant Professor) cetxue@ust.hk

Jize ZHANG (Assistant Professor) cejize@ust.hk

Shenghan ZHANG (Assistant Professor) ceshenghan@ust.hk

Yuxin PAN (Assistant Professor) ceypan@ust.hk

Accommodation and transportation

The conference takes place on the campus of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in Clear Water Bay in the east of the city. There are 3 main hotels that attendees may consider for accommodation.

Conference Lodge is located within the HKUST campus. For more information, please refer to the following link. For general inquiries please call (852) 3701 8888 or email info@conferencelodge.hk

The Crowne Plaza Kowloon East is located in Tsueng Kwan O and is 25 minutes away from HKUST. For more information, please refer to the following link. For general inquiries please call 800 968 111 or email rsvn@cptko.com

Vega Suites is located in Tsueng Kwan O and is 25 minutes away from HKUST. For more information, please refer to the following link. For general inquiries please call (852) 3963 7888 or email enquiries@vegasuites.com.hk

For general information about transportation to HKUST, please refer to the following link.