Feng Chia University- Spring 2020    

Academic Work - Thesis Design
Advisor: Wei-Hsiang Tseng
Team Member: Tsung-Han Tsai, Han Lin

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By understanding and learning through architecture’s history, culture and technology, this project aims to discover the relation between precise digital tools and imprecise material property: concrete, one of the most popular used materials in the contemporary era. Proposing an emerging tectonic to respond to contemporary architectural trends is how we redefine the relation between tools and materials. We propose a method using an inflatable structure as a mold system, which challenges general tension membrane structures. The technique combines a dynamic inflatable structure and a quantitative concrete system. Inflatable system: Seaming TPU with laser cutting machine in a specific pattern. The seaming patterns allow controlling the shape of the surface when inflated. The air pressure converts to material tension, which also creates structure through inflation. Quantitative concrete system: The seaming patterns allow control of the thickness of the surface when grouting concrete.

 

The inflations not only create various forms but also build up the initial structure to support itself. Using the fluidity of concrete when grouted into inflatable formwork, the weight of concrete causes pressure to the inflation. The inflation then transfers pressure into tension to find balance through forming. Exert the anti-tension property of TPU is the main value of this tectonic.