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New shapes for concrete columns

Abstract:

Form-finding is a process of research by design, which considers its own conditions to increase the amount of possible results. This article presents a parametric design strategyfor concrete columns using fabric formwork, in order to support the creative development of this technique in architectural compositions. This strategy is based on a formwork system composed of textiles with vertical supports to generate circular columns, which has been tested in scale models and real-size elements. The parametric design of the system is established from a sequence of circles with variable radius and height, in addition to lateral displacement, elaborating a computational programming that allows generating a variety of column designs. Parametric implementation allows verifying the formal versatility of these constructive capacities, as well as reviewing execution conditions and structure, and suggesting new spatial, distribution, analysis and manufacturing possibilities, evidencing the architectural potential of the digital system and flexible formworks.