Computer Design and Digital Manufacturing of Folded Architectural Structures Composed of Wood Panels

Abstract

The research presented in this paper revolves around the experimentaldevelopment of the morpho-structural potential of folded architecturalstructures made of wood. The aims are to develop an innovative systemfor timber used in sustainable construction and to increase theinventory of wood architectural tectonics. Laminated timber panelsassociated with ``digital production line{''} approach have opened upnew perspectives for the building industry in creating prefabricatedwooden structures. This article provides a characterization of thedigital chain associated to the development of non-standard foldedstructures which consist of wood panels by way of a full-scaleexperimental pavilion. The purpose is the study of architectural designprocess from parametric modeling (through CNC machining) and assemblyoperations to production. Towards the completion of the pavilion, anumber of analytical experiments have been performed.