Challenges of Scale Modelling Material Behaviour of Additive-Manufactured Nodes

Keeping up with the Code - Communicating the Decision Making History of Architectural Scripts

“…In fact, results of generative design processes often exhibit a high level of visual elaboration and structural complexity. Application of Bi-Directional Evolutionary Structural Optimisation (BESO) ) led to novel aesthetic expressions of structural nodes (Crolla 2014, Prohasky 2015, Seifi 2016. Consequently, exploration of mechanisms for interfacing with other generative algorithms was identified as opportunity to further enhance aesthetic variation.…”

Proceedings of the 24th Conference on Computer Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA) [Volume 2]

“…The 'Smart Nodes' project demonstrated that using 3D printed metal nodes one could apply volumetric topological optimisation strategies to the design of the node to reduce its mass (Seifi et al, 2016;. However, it was still challenging to implement 3D printed metal building components on building projects due to its high cost, slow production rate and unpredictable structural integrity such as the risk of internal stresses caused by anisothermal conditions during printing (Williams et al 2015). However, an alternative surface-based manufacturing approach was proposed in this research project (Figure 10).…”

Proceedings of the 22nd Conference on Computer Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA)

“…Increasing demand for intricate geometries and mass-customized building components opens the opportunity for individualized expression of structures in architectural design processes. Over recent years, new applications of additive fabrication for the design of structural components were developed and custom-optimisation of structural nodes were tested at a pavilion scale to show first glimpses at the design potential of these design methodologies (Williams et al 2015;Prohasky et al 2015;O'Donnell et al 2015). Innovation of structural component design, developed in the presented research, uses a novel custom optimisation approach based on cross section optimisation for the improvement of the structural performance during different design iterations.…”

“…• MATERIALS: Whereas ABS and/or PLA prints do not have the structural integrity needed in the construction industry, printing in metal as outlined in the research by which would fulfil the structural requirement is currently still an expensive undertaking. Projects such as the ones by FURNITURE DESIGN USING CUSTOM-OPTIMISED STRUCTURAL NODES 843 Williams et al (2015) rely on 3D printers on an industrial scale and the cost of the use of such equipment is still high compared to conventional manufacturing technology for structural nodes like on site welding or steel casting. Currently most 3D printers are in a table top format.…”