Digital Steam Bending: Re-Casting Historical Craft Through Digital Techniques

Abstract

Digital Steam bending is a design and fabrication research project that investigates the historically relevant, regionally significant technique of steam bending using advanced parametric software modelling, structural analysis and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) fabrication methods to reinvision the nearly forgotten technique of wood steam bending developed by Michael Thonet in the 19th Century. In doing so, Digital Steam Bending performs several operations: it reclaims a forgotten technique of fabrication and reframes it through the lens of contemporary digital craft, it claims new ground in the traditional periphery of architectural practice through shifting scales, and it confronts the difficulties of digital design and digital form generation through applied material practices. It also gestures toward the possibilities that regional resources and craft may leverage against high-carbon globalized manufacturing. Digital Steam Bending was conducted as a series of interconnected feedback loops in which material resistance, formal manipulation and digital tools were each allowed to influence the others. Material testing on various wood species began simultaneously with the development of formal digital models, where built up aggregations of unique but similar individual parts were digitally assembled, modified and reassembled to derive possible means of tectonic connection and overall form in search of spatial, architecturally scaled assemblies and structures. Locally harvested, FSC Certified, air-dried White Oak, evolved as the optimal material due to its high density, consistency of grain, natural durability and local abundance. Several base components were designed, tested and refined before ultimately arriving at full scale fabrication. The assemblies were then installed and documented as an exhibition at the University of Michigan’s Taubman Gallery and as full-scale gateway structure at Fredrik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan during Art Prize 2010.