Journal of Engineering and Architecture

Timber Shell: Wood in Building
Oliver Neumann, Jessica Hunter, AnnaLisa Meyboom, Alex Cheng, Thomas Tannert

Abstract
Contemporary design technology has given architects the ability to imagine and visualize complex structures to an extent that is currently beyond our ability to effectively fabricate and build. The described research is intended to mediate between the imagination of the designer and the current modes of construction; this project is part of a larger proposition to use wood as a sustainably sourced material that can be formed, curved and machined to create new digitally produced and tested formations. TimberShell creates prototypes for full-scale timber monocoque structures. Material computation affords us the ability to use the natural bending properties of wood to both bend components into shape and to create a robust load carrying structure once individual wood components are locked in by lamination. The geometry of the shell panel eliminates twisting. The research shows how doubly-curved timber shells that can be applied in either tension or compression. The panels can be used to create and cover spanning structures such as pools, gyms and auditoriums.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jea.v3n2a15