SuperPly
Project Team Minh Triet Tran
Ngoc Khanh Pham
Khaled Dababneh
Kent Kien Phuoc Ngo
Timber Medium 12mm Plywood
Tree Species Radiata Pine
Embodied Carbon - 24.17 kgCO2e
Installation Piece
Nestled in UTS Building 6’s DAB courtyard, this project explores the creative use of plywood, blending material-focused design and advanced robotic fabrication for fluid timber structures. Prioritizing sustainability, the roof design features plywood as the main material, cleverly incorporating joints for integrative connectivity. Following fusion design principles, it beautifully blends nature-inspired aesthetics, unique textures, and sturdy finger joints. Beyond its visually stunning impact, this project showcases innovation and environmental awareness, providing a fresh and sustainable take on roof structures.
In the realm of climate sustainability, how architects and builders approach their work plays a crucial role in energy efficiency, material choices, and the overall ecological impact of buildings. This impact has far-reaching consequences for global carbon emissions, emphasizing the urgent need for environmentally friendly practices in construction. Computational design tools have emerged as key players in architectural advancement, giving architects and engineers the ability to thoroughly analyze and enhance various aspects of building performance. This involves a detailed examination of energy use and material efficiency, strengthening the eco-friendly aspects of architectural projects through informed insights and advanced simulations.
The project revolves around employing an industrial robot setup to tackle the challenges of wood-based robotic milling. The design process is meticulous, creating a sturdy framework using standard 1200mm x 2400mm x 12mm plywood sheets and machinery. There's a focus on the practicality of plywood in architecture, forming a close relationship between design and fabrication.
This integration guides the project from digital ideation to tangible construction, utilizing the inherent flexibility of plywood for free-form designs, especially those with organic shapes. The amalgamation of cutting-edge technologies not only signals advancements in timber construction but also indicates a shift in how architects approach materials and fabrication processes.
This innovative approach contributes significantly to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious architectural landscape. The emphasis is on wood joint connections, avoiding the use of nails or glue techniques, thereby expanding the possibilities of using wood, particularly plywood sheets, in inventive and eco-friendly construction practices.