Bending-active kit-of-parts systems: Uniformity generating complexity

Stijn Brancart, Olga Popovic Larsen, Niels De Temmerman, Lars De Laet

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Utilising the inherent elasticity of their flexible components, bending-active struc-tures can easily be produced from planar or linear components. Although the components and their fabrication can be very simple, the deformation behaviour is often complex and can result in complex structural geometries. Parametric tools allow modelling such geometries by including material properties and behaviour early on in the design process. While this can potentially lead to an entirely new structural and morphological design vocabulary, functional requirements often demand regularity and compatibility from the structure and its components. This paper presents an approach for the development of bending-active kit- of-parts systems. Consisting of regular sets of identical or compatible components, these systems generate apparent geometric complexity though very simple geometric patterns and component connectivity. The resulting structures are reconfigurable and can be adapted to multiple uses, locations and spatial requirements. Theoreti-cal insights are supported by two applied cases: reciprocal bending-active structures and kinetic curved-line folding structures. Both use the flexibility of their components to develop structural diversity through a simple geometric system. Illustrated by two built structures, these cases show how a well- integrated design that considers manufacturing and assembly can lead to an efficient construction process. Moreover, using reversible connections, the structures allow reuse and even reconfiguration.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStructures and architecture 2019
EditorsPaulo Cruz
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Number of pages8
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2019
Externally publishedYes

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