Muscular Architecture: An Interactive Bending-Active System

  • Prototypes aim to investigate stress inducing method between the veneer and zip tie system, in order to pre-program a shape into the bending active network.
    Prototypes aim to investigate stress inducing method between the veneer and zip tie system, in order to pre-program a shape into the bending active network.
    Alina Turean
  • Prototypes aim to investigate stress inducing method between the veneer and zip tie system, in order to pre-program a shape into the bending active network.
    Prototypes aim to investigate stress inducing method between the veneer and zip tie system, in order to pre-program a shape into the bending active network.
  • Scale prototype model of the pavilion structure bending active system.
    Scale prototype model of the pavilion structure bending active system.
    Alina Turean
  • Scale prototype model of the pavilion structure bending active system.
    Scale prototype model of the pavilion structure bending active system.
    Alina Turean
  • An axonometric of the pavilion showing the bending-active system tested in the preview prototypes. Various occupancy levels alter the stress induced within the system and cause a dynamic bending within the pavilion walls.
    The pavilion is constructed based on the bending-active system tested in the preview prototypes. Various occupancy levels alter the stress induced within the system and cause a dynamic bending within the pavilion walls.
    Alina Turean
  • Render view of the pavilion from an interior point of view.
    Render view of the pavilion.
    Alina Turean
Author(s)
Alina Turean
Project Date
Featured In:
2019-20 Awards
2020 Projects Review

Active bending is calling for a paradigm shift in the way structures are designed and built. It is in this context that natural materials can play a significant role in the development of more
sustainable and economical material practices in architecture.

The presented project aims to develop a modular bending-active system that relies on an interactive joint mechanism to induce stiffening stresses within the closed system. As seen in the modules, the bending and torsion forces developed in the “skin”, oak veneer, are induced through the pulling forces caused as a result of the bending forces applied on the “tendon”, zip tie, by the sliding joint.

Through modifications to the modules, it is possible to achieve a variety of end shape results. The benefits of this system is that it allows for a quick assembly and disassembly process, and it can be easily transported.

Related Course
3B Option Studio - Parametric Space and Material Systems