Directional Biocomposites: Computational Framework
Our 2024 ACADIA Vanguard Award Paper presented a multi-scalar design approach to recognize the regional and seasonal availability of biocomposites. Using topology optimization, we were able to customize the shape of components such as a stool or a structural ceiling slab. The process is geared towards utilizing the directional mechanical properties of various biocomposites in ways as to minimize the self-weight (and with it the environmental impact) of designs. This ‘digital vernacular’ approach thus establishes a computational linkage between a time-based material geography and the configuration of designs.
During the 3D printing process part orientation will be such as to balance wet print stability with optimized alignment of the principal stresses with the natural fibers that make up the majority of the biomaterial. The image above shows the variations for a selected set of materials – more information is available in the paper:
Tish, D., Gan, A., Cabral, S., and Bechthold, M. 2024. “Toward a Digital Vernacular: Framework for Localized Biocomposite 3D-Printing with Natural Fibers.” Proceedings, ACADIA 2024.
Team
Dan Tish, Lecturer, Harvard GSD
Amelia Wen Jiun Gan, MDes Mediums ‘23, Harvard GSD, Irving Fellow ’24
Sophia Cabral, MDes Mediums ’25, Harvard GSD
Martin Bechthold, MaP+S Director, Prof. Academic Dean Harvard GSD
Funding: Industry Advisors of the Laboratory for Design Technologies, Advanced Composites