EUPLECTELLA ASPERGILLUM SCAFFOLDING STRUCTURE
1
EUPLECTELLA ASPERGILLUM SCAFFOLDING STRUCTURE
Individual Spicules join together to create a ring like structure that is interwoven to make a lattice structure.
2
The lattice structure is considered a part of the “FLEXIBLE PHASE”. The “HARD PHASE” consist of the same spicules interweaving diagonally with the lattice structure as it becomes rigid.
Images provided by: James C. Weaver
9’
1.5’ 11’ Patrick Carty
I
Prof. Chambers
I
Focus Studio 2011
FIBERGLASS KNUCKLE
ALUMINUM HIP SOCKET
ALUMINUM 3 WAY JOINT
FIBERGLASS PLAIT STRIPS ON BAMBOO SCAFFOLDING
X-RAY OF HIP JOINT
3
Aluminum Knuckle Joint
Flexible Phase
Fiberglass Vertical Neck
Aluminum Anchor Clip
Joining First Row
Adding Second Layer
Third Layer (Repeat)
Harden Phase
Aluminum Three Way Joint
Fiberglass Arms Scaolding System
VERTICAL USE
Diagonal Cable System
HORIZONTAL USE
Vertical Mullions
Exterior Finish
4
Over the past few months our class has researched and analyzed ways to apply textiles as a new paradigm into the
architectural profession. Throughout our studies we have acknowledge ways in which the textile industry can affect the architectural industry and vice versa. One important aspect in how textile is related to architecture is through the structure of fabrics. Much like the structure within a building, fabric too has a significant structure that gives it form, pattern, and strength. By understanding the elements of the fabric that helps hold the fabric together, architects can begin to respond in new ways of designing structures. This is where I begin my research into developing a new construction method looking at living organisms similar to how I examined the fabrics.
The idea of examining living organisms versus anything else comes from the passion that I have for biomimicry. Janine
Benyus, who is the mother of biomimicry, states that biomimicry is a “new science that studies living organisms and then imitates or takes inspiration from these designs and processes to solve human problems.� So for this project, I have chosen to examine the Euplectella Aspergillum, otherwise known as the sea glass sponge. The sea sponge caught my attention due to its ability to withstand intense lateral forces nearly a thousand feet under water. After researching more about the sea sponge, I was able to have a better understanding of how each element within the sponge played an important role in keeping this structure rigid. The key element, was the individual organisms called spicules. The spicules are joined together in a weaving pattern that help rigidize the structure.
After weeks of researching and model buildings, I have evolved the cruciform shaped spicule into a new shape that
carries on the weaving pattern by allowing the ends to join together creating a rigid structure. This new elemental structure is designed to be light, efficient, and simple to build. The final structure has many applications such as high rise, residential homes, or even a disaster relief center. Today, I present to you a new construction method, a method that transforms the way architects design the interior space of a building by the simple evaluation of how the Euplectella sponge weaves its structural elements to create a rigid hollow structure.
5
6
Step 1: Heat Aluminum Three Way Joint to 450 degrees to allow the material to expand.
7
Step 2: Slide the two arms and the vertical neck into the heated aluminum joint. Once the the aluminum joint has cooled down the fiberglass arms and neck will fit tightly within the joint.
8
Step 3:
Slide aluminum kunckle
onto the vertical neck till it is snug.
9
Step 4: Place aluminum anchor clip to the back of the fiberglass neck. To clamp the anchor clip into place, 8 metal clamps are used to hold the anchor clip in place.
10
11
Step 5: The next few steps help guide the constructor in the process of assembling the scaffolds together. This first one starts off by simply placing two pieces next to each other.
12
Step 6: After completing the first row of scaffolding, the next layer needs to be assembled. By placing the next level of scaffolding between the scaffolding below, the arms one the second level will slide into the knuckles of the first row.
13
Step 7: Once steps 5 and 6 have been completed, step 7 is a repetition of the two prior steps. Continue with step 7 until the desired dimensions has been reached.
14
15
Step 8: Adding
the
cable
support that wraps around the structure giving the extra support that is needed during lateral forces.
16
Step 9: Add
mullions
using the anchor clip to screw in the desired mullion clip.
17
Step 10: After
mullions
are in placed, the choice of material for the finishing facade is able to be put up.
18
19
20
21