Kinetic Canopy Construction (new Video)

Kinetic Asymptotic Structures
The project „Kinetic Asymptotic Structures“ is a collaboration between the University of Hong Kong and
Leibniz University Hannover. The project is funded by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) and
includes the exchange of a postdoc and a doctoral student in the summer of 2024.
The research aims to develop innovative, transformable shell structures that can be applied in urban and rural environments. Integrating architecture, geometry, and computer-aided mechanics will create an adaptive structure that can flexibly respond to different climatic and functional requirements.

Research Objectives
The main goals of the project are to extend the computer-aided design workflow for four-dimensional
modeling of asymptotic networks, to develop architectural applications for adaptive facade and roofing
systems, and establishing a reliable material and construction strategy for lightweight, transformable
structures. Another goal is the broad dissemination of research results through workshops, exhibitions,
conference presentations, and scientific publications to ensure knowledge transfer into practice.

Prototype
A central element of the research is developing and testing a kinetic prototype. The Kinetic Canopy consists of a symmetrical lattice structure made of glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) and aluminium joints that can assume various spatial configurations through elastic deformation.
It demonstrates the structural performance and adaptability of this technology and serves as a basis for further investigations and applications. The project will be exhibited in Zurich during the IASS.

Construction
The canopy is constructed with GFRP slats coupled with aluminium scissor joints and pulled into the desired shape with steel cables. The structure is supported on hinged steel nodes and actuated through two winches on either side.

Name: Kinetic Canopy
Type: Strained Transformable Gridshell
Location: Leibniz University Hannover, Germany
Completed: November 2024

PROJECT LEAD

The University of Hong Kong | HKU
Department of Architecture
Dr. Zongshuai Wan, Haotian Man, Kristof Crolla

and

Leibniz University Hannover | LUH
Institute for Design and Building Construction | Structures
Prof. Dr. Eike Schling, Janek Zindler, Christian Reck

Student Team LUH:
Tim Riechers, Paulina Kirschke, Marie Engelking

INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS

Fibrolux
Fibrolux GmbH, Hessenstr. 16, 65719 Hofheim, Deutschland

Alpacka
ALPAKA GmbH & Co. KG, Gerhardsweg 5, D-36100 Petersberg
Frank Hartmann

FUNDED BY

RGC Hong Kong
GRF General Research Fund (RGC Ref No. 17607023)
Title: Kinetic Asymptotic Structures
Principal Investigator: Kristof Crolla, Eike Schling