Rice Architecture
F_X01
FOLDING MODEL / EXPERIMENT SEVEN
Maximilien Chong Lee Shin
Andrea Sanchez
Vinati Kokal
Tasiana Paolisso
In this project, we have created a unit that folds into itself to produce a closed geometry with eight triangular planar faces. By itself, the unit forms an independent three-dimensional truss-object with its own structural integrity. When a force is applied to the unit, the force is distributed along the edges of the triangular planes (or the fold lines). The unit has multiple faces that are of similar dimensions so that multiple units can be combined by matching the coincident faces. This combinational logic essentially extends the truss-system and the force distribution along the fold lines. The combinational logic also implies that the truss is not one that is linear like industrial trusses. Rather, it intrinsically grows three-dimensionally by virtue of its geometry so that it can be conceptualized into various architectural details, scales, and elements. The questions that guide our exploration here are: What is the architectural potential of combining the unit? It can be conceived as a column, arch, canopy, facade,etc.