Nathan Barnes
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urban pt-column3.0
post tensioned column digi fab : prof [brad bell]
spring 2015
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DIGI[FORM] While significant advancement has taken place within the precast and composite industry related to the production of molds for non Euclidean panel geometry, or freeform architecture, much of that process still relies on practices of milling one-off formwork that is neither sustainable nor at times practical for jobs that require a large number of heterogeneous parts.
This research examines the viability of a digitally reconfigurable surface(s) allowing for a range of geometric outcomes from a single formwork. The research has taken place over three semester terms culminating in the presentation of Spring 2015.
ACADIA 14: Design Agency : Casting non-repetitive Geometries with Digitally Reconfigurable Surfaces
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TOOLS : Rhino Grasshoppper Firefly Adruino micro 3D printing
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PUBLICATIONS
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To develop a full range of motion for both convex and concave motion in a single surface, two references are implemented. The first is the structural control and precision provided by origami. It is precisely the tessellated patterning and the three-dimensional configuration of the surface that offers the most compelling argument for why origami methodology is useful. More precisely, the star tuck and the careful calibration of incidental edges in relationship to the vertex allows for a volumetric uncoiling of the surface to take place that facilitates the simultaneity of the concave and convex movement. The second reference is chainmail for how it provides flexibility in movement but durability in material. The interlocking or connected components provide flexibility to be incrementally distributed across the surface.
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Geometry studies The goal of the installation was to demonstrate similarity and difference through both homogeneous and heterogeneous part to whole family relationships. The geometry studies look for viability in application to the casting process . Constraints were, variability of the tool in it’s ability to expand for panel size, projection subdivision.
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The projection method projects a flat grid onto the surface. The grid can contain any irregular geometry but orthogonal rectangular and square grids are the most common for the projection method and most relevant to this process. The angle in plane of the panels remains the same as the projected grid for each column of panels.
The subdivision of the geometry is attained through panel projection optimized for each column of panels in relation to the casting process. The Gaussian curvature K is the product of the two principle curves (k1 and k2) at any given point on a surface. A normal vector can be defined for any point on the surface.
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pt-column3.0
Tensioned Column The column is design as three parts that are cast separate and tied together through tensioned cables. This tensioning locks the column together putting the entire system in compression
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Fabrication design
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Final fabrication photo