Kinetic Asymptotic Structures
The project „Kinetic Asymptotic Structures“ is a collaboration between the University of Hong Kong and Leibniz University Hannover. The project is funded by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) and includes the exchange of a postdoc and a doctoral student in the summer of 2024.
The research aims to develop innovative, transformable shell structures that can be applied in both urban and rural environments. By integrating architecture, geometry, and computer-aided mechanics, an adaptive structure will be created that can flexibly respond to different climatic and functional requirements. This research places special emphasis on sustainability and cost efficiency.
Research Objectives
The main goals of the project are to extend the computer-aided design workflow for four-dimensional modeling of asymptotic networks, to develop architectural applications for adaptive facade and roofing systems, and to establish a reliable material and construction strategy for lightweight, transformable structures. Another goal is the broad dissemination of research results through workshops, exhibitions, conference presentations, and scientific publications to ensure the transfer of knowledge into practice.
Prototype
A central element of the research is the development and testing of a kinetic prototype. The Kinetic Canopy consists of a symmetrical lattice structure made of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) and aluminum joints that can assume various spatial configurations through elastic deformation. It demonstrates the structural performance and adaptability of this technology and serves as a basis for further investigations and applications. The project will be exhibited in Zurich during the IASS.
Construction
The construction involves the use of GFRP slats coupled with aluminum scissor joints and pulled into the desired shape with steel cables. The structure is supported on hinged steel nodes and is covered with a PTFE membrane.
Name: Kinetic Canopy
Type: Strained Transformable Gridshell
Location: Leibniz University Hannover, Germany
Completed: November 2024
PROJECT LEAD
The University of Hong Kong | HKU
Department of Architecture
Dr. Zongshuai Wan, Haotian Man, Kristof Crolla
and
Leibniz University Hannover | LUH
Institute for Design and Building Construction | Structures
Prof. Dr. Eike Schling, Janek Zindler, Christian Reck
Student Team LUH:
Tim Riechers, Paulina Kirschke, Marie Engelking
INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS
Fibrolux
Fibrolux GmbH, Hessenstr. 16, 65719 Hofheim, Deutschland
Alpacka
ALPAKA GmbH & Co. KG, Gerhardsweg 5, D-36100 Petersberg
Frank Hartmann
FUNDED BY
RGC Hong Kong
GRF General Research Fund (RGC Ref No. 17607023)
Title: Kinetic Asymptotic Structures
Principal Investigator: Eike Schling
