Modelling of architectural envelopes based on shell formation of molluscs by using additive manufacturing (A08)

• Subject Area: Palaeontology ; Architecture, Building and Construction History, Construction Research, Sustainable Building Technology ; Automation, Mechatronics, Control Systems, Intelligent Technical Systems, Robotics ; Production Systems, Operations Management, Quality Management and Factory Planning ; Systematics and Morphology (Zoology)
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 231064407

The project studied the periostracum formation of various molluscs with a special emphasis on snails. The separation into one form-defining and one load-bearing layer, the freeform extrusion in the direction of material flow and the post-extrusion modulation were identified as key features for a novel additive manufacturing strategy with special significance for architecture. In the second funding period, the way that periostracum production is integrated into highly differentiated 3D sculpturing of the shell surface will be analysed.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 141: Biological Design and Integrative Structures. Analysis, Simulation and Implementation in Architecture
• Applicant Institution: Universität Stuttgart
• Project Heads: Professor Achim Menges; Professor Dr. James H. Nebelsick; Professor Dr. Günter Reiter, until 6/2018; Professor Dr.-Ing. Alexander Verl