When Amazon reached out to Form Found Design to build a pavilion for their robotics conference, FFD proposed a new collaboration between robot and builder that allows for the rapid prototyping of concrete. The MARS Pavilion combines the precision or robots and the freedom of fabric to achieve an otherwise impossible organic geometry.
Industrial robot arms manipulate fabric sleeves, creating an adjustable formwork into which concrete is poured. No two components are the same in the structure, which is designed to be a catenary to keep every member in compression. Helix Steel fiber is introduced in lieu of rebar, yielding a 25% increase of compressive, tensile and flexural strengths. A uniform steel connection detail is used throughout, creating a consistent means for assembly. Upon completion Jeff Bezos remarked, "It is insane, and insane is the best compliment I give".
Connections were fabricated with aerospace-level precision by American Best Engineering. Footings were fabricated by Aero Welding. Walter P. Moore provided engineering support and ABB Robotics provided industry collaboration and support. Helix Steel and CTS Cement sponsored the Pavilion's exhibit at the A+D Museum in Los Angeles. Both companies are currently strategic partners pursuing new work.
Credits:
- Walter P. Moore - P.E. - T. Stephen Lewis
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