Monday

EX_03 Triangulated Structure

Beginning with one surface, I applied a triangular pattern on a grid of 5x30 points. Following the grid I created 5 ribs to act as the primary structure. I then began adding triangulated bracing between the ribs with secondary piping.
The above shows the same steps with out the forms surface.

To create the secondary structure I offset the surface and grid towards the interior of the form by a distance of the radius of the ribs. I initially wanted to separate the secondary structure by having on all bracing going one direction on the interior of the ribs and all the bracing going the opposite direction to be on the exterior of the ribs. This in a sense would create 3 layers of structure. However, has you can tell from the image below when I offset the the surface and grid to the exterior of the ribs, the intersections of the triangle patterns did not line up. Thus, I placed all of the secondary structure into the interior of the ribs.

Another problem I came across that I could not solve was that some of my control points for the secondary structure did not offset enough and some of the bracing intersects with the ribs. This is displayed in the image below. The problem only occurs at the smaller end of the form where the ribs lift off the ground.

And here are a few different view of the final product, with all bracing on the interior of the ribs.


Wednesday

...And Some More

Grid on surface to use as guide.

EX_03 Trial and Error

Basically right now I am just trying to figure out the best way to approach putting a structural frame onto this form. I know the design I want to accomplish but not sure how to get there yet.
Here I drew 2 curves on the surface of the form and tried to create an average of the two lines between them and got a very awkward curve as a result.

Here the projection of the the lattice design did not completely enclose the surface I was trying to cover.

The paneling tool creates great surfaces but I need a frame.

Here is the beginning of a series of ribs on a platform which could then be connected by secondary framing.




EX_02 More Research


Renzo Piano uses a structural lattice system as a curved surface to enclose the Kansai Internation Airport.



EX_02 Research

The Javits Convention Center in New York was built by I.M. Pei in the late 20th century. The exterior is an assemblage of space frames fitted with clear glass. Inside, the structure is supported by tubular steel pillars.




Although the form of the building is very regular I.M Pei used several different methods for connecting different structural elements which could prove useful.


EX_01 Connection

Here an assemblage is created by connecting identical curvilinear forms. The repeating form is designed to hook on to one another and thus works in tension only.




Monday

Digitally Enhanced Architecture and Fabrication (D.E.C.A.F)
Calpoly Pomona, Department of Architecture
Prof. Axel Schmitzberger
Winter 2009