Buildings (Sep 2023)

Weaving Octopus: An Assembly–Disassembly-Adaptable Customized Textile Hybrid Prototype

  • Ziqi Cui,
  • Siman Zhang,
  • Salvatore Viscuso,
  • Alessandra Zanelli

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13102413
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 13, no. 10
p. 2413

Abstract

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As global challenges evolve rapidly, lightweight architecture emerges as an effective and efficient solution to meet rapidly changing needs. Textiles offer flexibility and sustainability, addressing spatial requirements in urban and residential designs, particularly in underutilized areas. This study developed a user-friendly and customizable textile hybrid structure prototype by exploring different weaving methods to find more flexible and adaptable solutions. The research adopts a three-stage process: concept design, parametric simulation prototype, and physical scale-up testing. Methodologies include Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for assessing structural bending and tensile behavior, evolutionary computation for multi-objective optimization, Arduino for enabling interactive dynamic and lighting systems, and a website interface for bespoke decisions. Results revealed a groundbreaking textile hybrid prototype, applicable individually or collectively, with flexible assembly and disassembly in various scenarios. The prototype also offers an eco-friendly, cost-efficient facade renovation solution, enhancing aesthetics and providing shading benefits. The research encompasses interactive lightweight construction design, bending-active textile hybrids, form-finding, circular economy, and mass customization, contributing to advances in lightweight construction design while promoting sustainable practices in textile architecture.

Keywords