Redefining Polyhedral Space Through 3D Printing
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Date
2021
Publication Type
Conference Paper
ETH Bibliography
yes
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Abstract
Space frames (SF) are perhaps the most used lightweight spatial structures in the construction sector. They are identified as a highly prefabricated and standardised construction system. However, as computational design brings forward more complex forms and freeform shapes, standardized modular systems are presenting difficulty to retro-fit complex forms.
Advances in Additive Manufacturing (AM) present opportunities to fabricate customized structural parts. More specifically, the fabrication of bespoke connections with AM bares great potential to overcome geometrical limitations in SF construction. Geometrical differentiations can be combined with functional integration at no extra cost. 3D printing offers the missing link to effectively establish a digital chain, from design to fabrication for non-standard SF.
This paper examines generative computational methods for creating case-specific, bespoke connections designed for AM. In combination with studies in density, topology, and materiality of the connections possibilities of new geometric space articulation, new aesthetics, and finally, multi-functional structural frames arise.
A series of case studies of bespoke SF design at different scales are reviewed and address a variety of functional nodes ranging from stiff axial connections to fully flexible spring ones. Finally, the paper critically discusses the geometrical benefits and limitations of the presented methods for digital bespoke space frames.
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Publication status
published
External links
Book title
Advances in Architectural Geometry 2020
Journal / series
Volume
Pages / Article No.
306 - 329
Publisher
Presses des Ponts
Event
2020 Advances in Architectural Geometry Conference (AAG 2020)
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
3D printing; space frames; bespoke prefabrication
Organisational unit
09566 - Dillenburger, Benjamin / Dillenburger, Benjamin
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication
02602 - Inst. f. Technologie in der Architektur / Institute of Technology in Architecture
Notes
Conference lecture held on April 29, 2021. The conference should have taken place in Paris on August 30 - September 2, 2020. Due to Corona virus (COVID-19) the conference was rescheduled to April 26-29, 2021 and was conducted virtually.
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