Biodigital stool series: Nature-based growing morphologies through additive manufacturing and generative design

Abstract

Biodigital Architecture and Design emerges in the intersection between nature-based design and digital technologies. This article presents the results of a project that aimed to integrate three-dimensional growth patterns from nature into a stool design series through Computational Design and Additive Manufacturing methods. The project methodology includes (1) Pattern from nature selection, (2) Generative design, (3) 3D printing, including scale models and prototypes, (4) Compression tests, and (5) Generative optimization. Findings indicate that the branching pattern was the lightest-weight pattern while showing the highest specific resistance compared to the other models evaluated. Branching pattern also took the least amount of time and material to print, these findings contribute to the decision-making process for future work. Regarding computational design method, it resulted in several design alternatives, with complex, unpredictable and efficient mechanical behavior geometries. Future work would include to a variety of patterns from nature, generative design, optimizations, and prototypes.