Exploring the potential of equilibrium-based methods in additive manufacturing: the Digital Bamboo pavilion


Date

2022

Publication Type

Conference Paper

ETH Bibliography

yes

Citations

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Data

Abstract

Additive manufacturing allows using naturally grown structural elements in combination with 3D printed components, aiming to foster a more sustainable building culture. However, from a structural perspective, the combined use of natural and artificial materials introduces new uncertainties and challenges in relation to the design and analysis of the global load-bearing behavior of structures, as well as their connection systems. In this context, equilibrium-based methods derived from the lower bound theorem of the theory of plasticity are particularly effective since they are not restricted to a specific structural typology, material, or scale. This paper illustrates the application of equilibrium-based methods such as strut-and-tie modeling and graphic statics to the structural design and analysis of a full- scale demonstrator, the Digital Bamboo pavilion. The load-bearing system of the pavilion is a bamboo space frame reinforced by post-tensioned cables. The bamboo elements are connected via bespoke 3D printed nylon and steel connections. Thanks to the combination of natural and artificial materials, the Digital Bamboo exhibits a filigree high-performance geometry that goes beyond the ordinary space frame architecture.

Publication status

published

Editor

Book title

Proceedings of the IASS/APCS 2022 Beijing Symposium: Next Generation Parametric Design

Volume

2022

Pages / Article No.

Publisher

International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures

Event

Annual Symposium of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS 2022)

Edition / version

Methods

Software

Geographic location

Date collected

Date created

Subject

Space frame; equilibrium-based methods; bamboo; bespoke connections; additive manufacturing

Organisational unit

03800 - Schwartz, Joseph (emeritus) / Schwartz, Joseph (emeritus) check_circle
09566 - Dillenburger, Benjamin / Dillenburger, Benjamin check_circle
02284 - NFS Digitale Fabrikation / NCCR Digital Fabrication

Notes

Funding

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