Title: Asymptotic Building Envelope
Type: Conference Proceedings
Year: 2021
Authors: Eike Schling, Chih Lin Hsu, Muye Ma
Published in: The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong
Pages: Volume 1, p. 341-350
ISBN: 978-988-78917-5-8
Editors: Anastasia Globa, Jeroen van Ameijde, Adam Fingrut, Nayeon Kim, Sky Lo Tian Tian
Office: The University of Hong Kong, Department of Architecture
Abstract
This paper presents current research on low-cost, high-performance doubly curved building envelopes that benefit from a curvilinear layout along an isothermal web on minimal surfaces. We investigate the geometric symbiosis of an elastic lamella mullion system that follows the asymptotic curves combined with panelization strategies along the principal curvature lines in order to simplify fabrication and enhance the structural performance. We present a digital and physical setup of a full-scale prototypical asymptotic façade substructure. In collaboration with the construction industry, we evaluate the complete design and construction process, including digital modeling, fabrication planning, computer-aided manufacturing and logistics, prefabrication, and assembly. Both digital and physical prototypes are used to investigate cladding solutions. Our studies are specifically looking at developable-elastic and planar-rigid tessellations, which utilize a principal curvature layout. We conclude by highlighting flat-sheet fabrication, high structural resilience, and assembly time and tolerances, as primary potentials and challenges of this design strategy.
Keywords: Asymptotic Curves, Principal Curvature Line, Double Curvature, Building Envelope, Elastic Construction
Eike Schling 