Haydon Betz, Nghiem Du, Janavi Bhatt, Estefania Soto

In continuation of the previous project, The Soda Can, this study develops a universal joinery system for constructing reciprocal umbrella structures. Each 3D-printed node features eight connection points, offset by 60 degrees and oriented along all three XYZ axes, allowing for multi-directional assembly. 2.5” and 3.5” wooden dowels serve as lin- ear members, forming a base module of equilateral triangles that can be repeated, mirrored, and rotated to generate complex spatial networks.

Through systematic aggregation, we produced a family of umbrella structures exploring both structural and formal variation. These include conical, V-shaped, and branching configurations, as well as sectional profiles that curve, ta- per, or flatten. In plan view, the assemblies transform into hexagonal, diamond, or spherical compositions. Structural tests investigated the effects of one, two, three, or four support columns on stability and horizontal span.

The project demonstrates how a single node logic and modular unit can yield a wide range of self-supporting geometries.