Computational Design of Robotically Manufactured Plate Structures Based on Biomimetic Design Principles Derived from Clypeasteroida

Abstract

The paper presents the current development of an ongoing research project about the integration of robotic fabrication strategies in computational design through morphological and functional principles derived from natural systems. Initially, a developed plate structure material system based on robotically fabricated fi nger joints is being informed by biomimetic principles from the sea urchin Clypeasteroida in order to be able to adapt effi ciently to its building environment. Consequently, the paper’s main focus lies on translating the biomimetic design principles into a computational design tool, also integrating fabrication parameters as well as structural and architectural demands. The design tool’s capability to integrate these parameters is shown by the design, development and realization of a full-scale research pavilion. The paper concludes with discussing the performative capacity of the developed material system and the introduced methodology.