Form-Fit

winter semester | 2020/21
supervision | Prof. Dr.-Ing. Julian Lienhard
research associate | M.Sc. Seyed Mobin Moussavi

This thesis aims towards exploring a link between computational design, simulation and analysis, and assembly of complex structures through the digital detailing of form-fit connections

Digital detailing opens a new possibility to explore the design space of structural parts, organizing the manufacturing files, and assembly sequences through local geometric differentiation and coding. A practical approach is form-fit which has a high potential to be further explored in the steel connection detail.

One of the historic precedents isUSAF Aircraft Hangar, in which Konrad Wachsmann used the form-fit principle in connection system. The connection design showcases the potentials of using such a geometrical principle to enable connection of multiple elements together.

Using form-fit connection techniques, complex three-dimensional geometries can be generated from individual two-dimensional parts, which bear all geometric information of the global geometry in the local differentiation of the connection details.

Research and analysis of this principle within a historic architectural project or other steel manufacturing (such as automotive industry) can provide a scientific background for future building system application. This track concludes with a comprehensive research document.

The focus of the thesis is to investigate relevant aspects of digital detailing based on form-fit connection principle within a series of research and design experiments which develop a new synergy between geometrical interlocking system, CNC fabrication process, materiality.

Through form-fit thesis, students are supposed to expand technical development and design space of form-fit connection principle which can be result as a building element.

• Surface (wall, ceiling,… )

• Linear element (Beam, column,…)

• Connection

• …

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