Last summer,
a team in Stuttgart wanted to design a prefabricated pavilion using computer-based design and computer-controlled manufacturing methods
while integrating biomimicry in a structural sense. Their solution was based
around creating an adaptable modular system, and after analyzing a variety of
biological structures, they were inspired by the plate skeleton of the sand
dollar (a sub-species of the sea urchin.) The shell of this creature is made up
of many polygonal plates, connected at the edges by finger-like joints. As a
result of this analysis of the sand dollar, the pavilion can achieve a high
load bearing capacity through its modular system: Three plate edges always meet
together at just one point, which allows both normal and shear forces but no
bending moments between the joints. I think this project is a great example of how we can analyze and test
various biotic principles as they relate to architecture and design.
-Elaine
Images courtesy of © ICD / ITKE University of Stuttgart
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