The Contribution of Great Circles for Building Retractable Polyhedra

Abstract

This article aims to contribute to the development of articulated and expandable structures, addressing the needs of the steadfast paradigm shift, currently perceived in the Architecture and Construction field. Observed in nature and in contemporary society, dynamic polyhedral geometries are imbued with a constructive and aesthetic potential that reveal processes of change, transience and impermanence. Studying the modular units, systems, subsystems and connections in the pantographic polyhedrons can contribute for the development of expandable and contractible structures, which is vital for the technological advances of the Kinetic Architecture. The starting point of the study was the polyhedrons of Plato and Archimedes. These structures are projected in a way that its volumes may vary - i.e. it may expand or contract without the need to modify or change any of its components. The present article brings new technological tools for the development of this type of metamorphic geometries, inspired in forms found in Nature and based on the Buckminster Fuller geodesic structures and on the retractile structures of Chuck Hoberman. This method introduces “The Great – Circle Planes” as a solution to the subdivision of polyhedrons. It also presents a new theoretical/practical system called “System for the development of metamorphic geometries” based on the “Transformable Design” of Chuck Hoberman. In addition, the research presents the method developed for the construction of retractable geodesic domes with its geometry applicable for cover systems. This works also deepens the study on the dynamic geometric structures presenting physical models and virtual simulations applicable to architectural elements, based on their constructions. For this purpose, generative and parametric modeling software and digital manufacturing software were used. The Artifacts were built using a 3D printer and are intended be used in form of activities kits (building pieces) and didactic material.