Unfolding Architecture - Study, Development and Application of New Kinetic Structure Topologies (2005)
article⁄Unfolding Architecture - Study, Development and Application of New Kinetic Structure Topologies (2005)
abstract⁄Advances in design tools and material engineering open new possibilities for architectural structures that may respond better to the demands of the increasing density of development, better space management and lesser environmental impact. Folding structures that provide adjustable on demand configurations can be effectively conceptualized if appropriate interdisciplinary expertise is brought together. Kinematic chain geometries borrowed from traditional mechanics can be developed into a variety of topologies suitable for architectural structures. Rectilinear deformable grids can provide the functionality of expanding and collapsing as well as the ability to be infinitely arrayed. Converging grids allow for circular arrays and fan like folding. The challenge is to translate a twodimensional chain concept into a threedimensional array of interleaved frames that form a stable structure and can bear the necessary loads. In order to complement the folding structure with the corresponding foldable shell, the algebra of rigid folds can be adapted to develop viable geometrical concepts. The demands of the design process needed to develop kinetic structures will expand the traditional architectural workflow to include parametric modeling tools that are common in mechanical engineering. Folding architectural structures require, besides traditional architectural layout development, parametric assembly capabilities and motion analysis typical for mechanical design. Potential application development, marketing, building code changes and effective multidisciplinary collaboration must take place for kinetic structures to enter the architectural mainstream.
