Functionally Graded Aggregate Structures: Digital Additive Manufacturing With Designed Granulates

Abstract

In recent years, loose granulates have come to be investigated as architectural systems in their own right. They are defined as large numbers of elements in loose contact, which continuously reconfigure into variant stable states. In nature they are observed in systems like sand or snow. In architecture, however, they were previously known only from rare vernacular examples and geoengineering projects, and are only now being researched for their innate material potentials. Their relevance for architecture lies in being entirely reconfigurable and in allowing for structures that are functionally graded on a macro level. Hence they are a very relevant yet unexplored field within architectural design. The research presented here is focused on the potential of working with designed granulates, which are aggregates where the individual particles are designed to accomplish a specific architectural effect. Combining these with the use of a computer-controlled emitter-head, the process of pouring these aggregate structures can function as an alternative form of 3D printing or digital additive manufacturing, which allows both for instant solidification, consequent reconfiguration, and graded material properties. In its first part, the paper introduces the field of research into aggregate architectures. In its second part, the focus is laid on designed aggregates, and an analytical design tool for the individual grains is discussed. The third part presents research conducted into the process of additive manufacturing with designed granulates. To conclude, further areas of investigation are outlined especially with regard to the development of the additive manufacturing of functionally graded architectural structures. The potentials of the methodologies developed in this process are shown through the fabrication of a full-scale installation. By integrating material, fabrication, and design constraints into a streamlined computational methodology, the process also serves as a model for a more intuitive production workflow, expanding the understanding of glass as a material with wide-ranging possibilities for a more performative architecture.