Mockup of a double-curved timber grid shell with asymptotic and geodesic lamellas to test industrial manufacturing methods. Photo: S. Hoyer
Comparison between different fabrication techniques of continuously curved timber gridshells.
Analysis of an asymptotic network, investigating fabrication constraints such as joint angles and geodesic curvature.
Hybrid Asymptotic Geodesic Timber Grids
The project, ‘Hybrid Asymptotic Geodetic Timber Grids’, aims to develop a material- and cost-saving construction method for curved timber structures. The high-performance shell structure is woven from vertical and horizontal timber planks. The construction method enables simple, precise production from reusable elements, with architectural application for medium and long-span structural systems for new and existing buildings. The research project is based on the latest findings in differential geometry on curvature networks on spatial surfaces (along asymptotic and geodesic curves) as well as the latest mechanical simulation possibilities for elastic bar bending and torsion. Efficient, material-saving, spatial load-bearing structures are created by the systematic linking and deforming of the timber lamellae. Asymptotic grids can be put together in a flat state in a simple way and brought into the predefined, doubly curved state by self-guiding deformation. Geodetic lamellae have a stiffening effect and are suitable as a flat covering layer. The principles have already been successfully applied to steel and GRP structures. Preliminary studies were carried out prior to the project to ensure the applicability of wood. The project holistically encompasses geometry, construction and structure and aims to develop the method of construction to marketability.
Research Team:
Sebastian Hoyer, Prof. Dr. Pierluigi D'Acunto, Professorship of Structural Design, School of Engineering & Design, Technical University Munich
Prof. Dr. Eike Schling, Department of Structural Design, Insitute for Design and Construction, Faculty of Architecture and Landscape, Leibniz University Hannover
Industry Partners:
Bernhard Tritschler, Tobias Döbele, Holzbau Amann GmbH
Funding programme:
Zukunft Bau Funding Programme, Funding Number: 10.08.18.7-23.04
Duration:
12.2023 - 11.2025
Related publications:
Hoyer, Sebastian; D'Acunto, Pierluigi; Schling, Eike: Timber Gridshells: Challenges and strategies in fabrication and assembly. Proceedings of the IASS 2024 Symposium, 2024 more…