Quadrilateral Patterns for Rigid Folding Structures

Abstract

In this paper we will do investigations on spatial quadrilateral meshes developed from folding patterns. The simplicity of manual production in combination with the geometrical complexity of paper folding shall lead to an inspiration for designing architectural structures.We propose geometrical methods for designing these quadrilateral structures which follow in their shape geometrical surfaces. Our methods use folding patterns where only four folding lines meet in one node and every quadrangular part stays flat.This enables simpler solutions for architectural realization in a big scale especially for join connections and assembling of the whole spatial and structural system. In order to understand and handle the complexity of paper folding we use CAD tools to model the structures where the entire folding element is reconstructed and its geometric characteristics are controlled.This kind of control reflects on scale models. Models are then adjusted, examined and built to reach certain further geometric conclusions that are once more tested in CAD software.

An Overview of Folding Techniques in Architecture Design

“…In architectural terminology, the term folding structure means structures consisting of plane polygonal elements [5] which made of plates and sticks. Some designers also call it origami construction [19].…”

“…Folding techniques are often explored by researchers with "learning by doing" methods [5]. Many fantastic forms are generated intuitively in this process.…”

“…Folding techniques, also known as origami, the generic term for paper folding, have been applied to many fields, such as in material research [1], robot structure [2] [3], electric devices [4] and architecture design [5]. Folding techniques are popular in architecture design mainly for two reasons, possessing creative architectural structure with advantageous load-carrying capabilities and generating esthetic and deployable architectural form [6].…”

“…For example, Stavric & Wiltsche [5] did investigations on spatial quadrilateral meshes from folding patterns. Furthermore, Lebée [7] presented a review of current challenges regarding folds and structures starting from simple notions of paper folding.…”

Folded Compositions in Architecture: Spatial Properties and Materials

“…An actual work of architecture demands a significant change in scale from the design model to the built form, with a corresponding change in materials used, and this represents a significant obstacle to the architectural use of folded compositions. In fact, it is the very properties of the material to be used that determine the form (Stavric and Wiltsche 2014). It is thus essential to characterise the physical conditions necessary to develop a folded design proposal to be realized at full architectural scale.…”