Tectonic tessellations: A digital approach to ceramic structural surfaces

Matias Imbern, Felix Raspall, Qi Su

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Structural surfaces represent a realm that interweaves formal explorations, structural optimization, and innovation in construction. Computation radically advanced the design of structural surfaces; however, how to translate these structural forms into architectural assemblies at the scale of buildings constitutes the most persistent challenge. In this scenario, an approach that ties advanced digital design tools to a specific ad hoc fabrication method can produce a feasible design and construction system, which can contribute to understanding and overcoming some of the current limitations of structural surfaces. This research develops an integrated digital workflow that combines form finding with robotic fabrication, surface tessellation, and panelization. In the past years, the use of digital tools to assemble identical modules into complex formations has achieved significant results for loadbearing walls. Expanding this line of research, the proposed fabrication system carries these experiments in additive fabrication into the production of structural surfaces. The assembly sequence involves two-step fabrication: off-site panel manufacturing and on-site assembly. The main components of the system consist of two triangular ceramic pieces that provide structural resistance, refined surface finish, and formwork for the thin reinforced-concrete layer. Panelization strategies reduce the requirements for on-site work and formwork. The paper describes background research, concept, the form-finding and construction process, methodology, results, and conclusions.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationACADIA 2012 - Synthetic Digital Ecologies
Subtitle of host publicationProceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture
EditorsMark Cabrinha, Jason Kelly Johnson, Kyle Steinfeld
PublisherACADIA
Pages315-321
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9781624072673
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event32nd Annual Conference of the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture: Synthetic Digital Ecologies, ACADIA 2012 - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 18 Oct 201221 Oct 2012

Publication series

NameACADIA 2012 - Synthetic Digital Ecologies: Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture
Volume2012-October

Conference

Conference32nd Annual Conference of the Association for Computer Aided Design in Architecture: Synthetic Digital Ecologies, ACADIA 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period18/10/1221/10/12

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