FABRIC-CAST CONCRETE
With many sections to add to the final form , a 3D printed node was created to ensure the various pieces are correctly positioned . Sarafian explains by stating that the node had to be capable of “ locking adjacent concrete arms in place ” and be “ easily installed and uninstalled without an exposed bolt ”, as otherwise it would not be fit for purpose . To ensure stability , the duo incorporated a “ truncated tetrahedron as a geometry that could be fixed to the concrete through a nut that is cast into the concrete . The bolt is then driven through the 3D printed “ Coupler ” and into the concrete .”
“ Since the entire composition is designed in 3D , each unique connection angle can be coordinated for a seamless connection in the physical world ”, he added .
Sarafian acknowledges that the use of software is paramount for the designs to be efficient and allow the segments to be fixed accurately into position . The inclusion of Rhinoceros software and Kangaroo3D ( an add-on for Grasshopper 3D ) allows the duo to obtain essential modelling and has “ simulated the effects of gravity on the filled fabric to build an accurate 3D model .” “ From this model we were able to extrapolate the locations of each robot arm necessary to create each shape . Those coordinates were then sent to the robots and the fabric was filled .”
This new innovative method will provide increased advantages in architectural design and construction . Sarafian explained , “ In architecture , we spend maybe 10 % of our time designing and about 90 % of our time representing those designs ( more or less , depending on the firm ). This and other methods present a means from going straight from the computer to built form without the intermediate step of drawing and communicating to a third party .
“ We ’ ve automated a concrete casting process that dates back to antiquity . Once the base shape is sewn , myriad variation is enabled simply by the manipulation of the robot arms . With casting and other processes , there are savings associated with repetition ( using the same form ).”
“ With this technique , controlled variation is now just as cost-effective as repetition because the robots are
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