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Hybrid Synergies - collaborative material programming as a novel approach to manufacturing FRP-Timber self-forming structures
In a context where sustainable biomaterials are being sought to alleviate the pressure on wood resources, FRP-timber hybrids are a promising option, combining the unique properties of timber and natural fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). With the advent of material programming and in particular self-shaping wood, a new class of self-forming hybrids is being investigated to explore material-driven design and fabrication strategies.
The research focuses on optimizing material parameters and behavior to reduce the need for additional materials or processes. The proposed hybrid system can produce materially and structurally efficient, prefabricated deployable structures. To this end, new manufacturing approaches rooted in material programming principles are developed to contribute to both self-shaping and coreless filament winding (CFF) fields. In particular, a deployable fiber winding process is integrated as part of a flat material assembly method. The resulting compact package requires no formwork or external intervention to later self-form into the desired geometry.
The outcome is a computational design-to-fabrication framework that leverages synergistic material collaboration from the early stages of fabrication to the final structure. The methods are validated through the realization of a full-scale demonstrator.
ITECH M.Sc. Thesis Project 2023: Hybrid Synergies - collaborative material programming as a novel approach to manufacturing FRP-Timber self-forming structures
André Aymonod, Ioannis Moutevelis, Ivana Trifunovic
Thesis Advisers: Rebeca Duque Estrada, Jorge Christie
Thesis Supervisor: Prof. Achim Menges
Second Supervisor: Prof. Jan Knippers