HYPERMEMBRANE

Development of an adaptable structure for architecture applications

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The HyperMembrane consists on a system of a Physical and Digital elements that will allow a shape adaptable construction system –and its procedure to put in shape- able to generate multiple and non-predetermined shapes, modifiable regarding to different spatial, solar or energetic requirements. - Physical HyperMembrane is an amazingly shape-adaptable self-supporting structure (roof, façade,…) able to stand in different equilibrium positions depending on the structure that the end user needs. Its formal articulation is based on elastic properties of thermoplastic composites, the innovative shape of its beams and the different elongation of the connecting elements (so called actuators). The capacity for shape adaptation of this system is such that two slightly different applications are envisaged: static structures (for complex geometry curved structures) and mobile structures (for structures that change shape throughout the life of the building). This project proposal is only researching and developing the technology required for the first type of applications due to time and budget restrictions. However, the results of this project are crutial for the implementation of the second application. - Digital HyperMembrane is the software for architectonic design that incorporates the code of the procedure to put the HyperMembrane in shape. It will enable to model the complex geometry structures that the PH is able to reproduce and will deliver necessary position for each actuator in order to achieve the desired shape. The main research branches of the project are concentrated under automatic structure design and modelization, composites for adaptable constructions and new light and safe actuators for positioning and clamping the adaptable structure. The end-product will be tested on prototype specimens in a real architectonic structure erected in Barcelona.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

New flexi-shape for construction

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The European construction industry is described as traditional and low-technology, and in need of modernisation. New techniques and design technologies offer a much-needed standardised system, yielding great freedom and capability.

Aiming to develop such a system was the EU-funded project 'Development of an adaptable structure for architecture applications' (http://www.cimne.com/hypermembrane/spacehome/1/0# (HYPERMEMBRANE)) . The six-member consortium ran over two years to August 2013. The goal was to provide European industry with a standard system for designing and building free-form architectural structures. The goal was to deliver a technology that is also high quality, adaptable, re-usable and customisable.

The project achieved its goal, resulting in an innovative two-part design and construction system. The physical part is a self-supporting flexible structure able to assume almost any programmed shape. That part of the system combines elastic composite materials with mechanical actuators. The digital part is a mathematically sophisticated tool for design and structural validation of the physical system.

Considerable software development work went into achieving the system components. This included new 3D shape-control code, along with a friendly graphical interface. The final code also included structural verification modules.

Once developed, the software was tested and shown to effectively control the membrane. The project compared various composite materials, and both designed and tested a suitable manufacturing process. Prototype versions of the membrane were constructed and put through similar tests, yielding a final design.

A follow-on project was submitted and approved by the EU. HYPERMEMBRANE-DEMO began in 2014, and will both advance the technologies developed under HYPERMEMBRANE and refine them for future commercialisation.

The project's achievements mean a convenient, standardised system for European design and construction, able to be used by a small force of medium-skilled workers. In addition, the system shows export potential, having follow-on benefits in a variety of areas, including composite materials and production processes.