As opposed to conventional, static structures, transformable structures possess a transformational capacity enabling them to efficiently respond to altered boundary conditions, such as climatic conditions, different locations, varying functional requirements, or emergency situations. Generally, this capacity is provided through built-in mobility (structural mechanisms) or by means of assembly/disassembly of its constitutive members (kit-of-parts systems). The former group demonstrates kinematic properties that allow them to rapidly respond to changing needs by folding, expanding, or by any other form of deployment. Generally they come in the form of lightweight deployable structures that can easily transform between different configurations. This makes them fit for temporary, mobile applications or for adding adaptable sub-structures to buildings. In what follows, the research performed at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel by the Transform Research Group, the Lightweight Structures Lab, and the Mechanics of Materials and Constructions research group (MeMC), all collaborating on lightweight deployable structures, is presented. Through six case studies, diverse possibilities of deployable structures in architectural and structural engineering are explored. Key aspects concerning the design, analysis and construction of mobile, as well as adaptable constructions, are explained. Finally, conclusions are drawn on the intricate relationship between the geometric configuration, the kinematic behaviour and Mobile and Rapidly Assembled Structures IV 1
<p>Within joint venture De Groene Boog, BESIX will design and construct a 2.2 km long tunnel in the North of Rotterdam for a new highway connection. Its design process entails the structural design of many similar tunnel sections and thousands of foundation and sheet piles, as well as the production of a detailed 3D Building Information Model and numerous technical drawings. To effectively perform these tasks and efficiently cope with design changes, an automation strategy has been developed that benefits from the tunnel’s repetitive geometry. The digital models are set up parametrically, while software innovations allow to dynamically transfer data between and combine the strengths of multiple software packages. Through standardization we aim to automate structural calculations and drawing production.</p><p>This paper will present the proposed automation strategy for the ongoing design process of the tunnel and will evaluate its benefit during the detailed design phase compared to traditional methods. The present project forms the first application of parametric design and automation of such magnitude being developed in-house at the BESIX Engineering Department. It reflects our ambition to use these techniques for tackling the ever increasing challenges within the construction industry and simultaneously boosting productivity and the quality of the final product.</p>
Deployable scissor structures can repeatedly transform between a compact and an expanded state, leading to a broad range of architectural applications. During the past few decades, a myriad of different configurations and shapes have been proposed. However, many of them show problems either in the deployment process, during which additional stresses and deformations are encountered, or in the in-plane stability of the structure once erected, requiring extra bracing components to solve. One of us has developed a configuration, based solely on translational scissor units, that allows combining the benefits of a rigid triangulated grid and a stress-free deployment process for single-curvature geometries. We have created a novel general design method for generating this type of foldable scissor structure and have explored its full geometrical potential, as is presented in this paper. The benefits and special characteristics of this type of structure are also discussed. The proposed configuration allows generating a large variety of single-curvature shapes useful for creating mobile self-supporting shelters. Additionally, a scale model has displayed promising kinematical and structural behaviour. Therefore, a full-scale prototype will be developed in the near future.
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