Légumes Urbaines: Digital Modeling Transformations + Prototype Fabrication Based on the Egg Crate Construction Method

Abstract

This study is divided in two areas. First, investigating the architectural, structural and possible program qualities of the egg crate. The fundamental exchange between the mathematical realm-in the form of digital modeling-and the material realm – in the form of material prototype fabrication and manufacturing-is the second goal. This paper also focuses on a basic design problem: how to produce a system of variable cavities and niches as opportunities for adjust to different programmatic needs as well as different terrain conditions based on the egg crate construction method. The egg crate was first used as a conventional aspect of masonry systems of construction, from wooden boats to building hulls. Simply put, it’s a matrix of horizontal and vertical structural elements (or parallel to the x and y axis). The findings were incorporated into the design of prototypes for small-scale urban furniture / installations, the “Légumes urbaines”.