ESR: Vasily Sitnikov

ESR NUMBER: ESR9

INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS: Buro Happold

INSTITUTE: KTH

Description:

The PhD student will investigate and develop methods for the simulation of formwork in architecture. This will entail research into the transformation between states of fluidity and solidity germane to casting, the dynamic relationship between casting material, formwork and environmental factors, and the architectural possibilities and consequences. The Research will also seek support in the history of formwork and casting in architecture. Current fabrication processes for casting concrete and other composite materials in architecture assumes rigid formwork in order to control geometry and quality. Examples from research explore flexible formwork in order to achieve more variable geometries and resourceful material usage through complex organic shapes. However, these examples are developed through trial and error and rely on empirical testing. This project will develop methods for simulating the dynamic balance between the hydraulic forces of the liquid material and the formwork that counterbalances it, parallel to material testing. By simulating the complex interdependencies and feedback cycles between materials, formwork and environmental parameters during the casting process, new design opportunities emerge. The project will deploy these methods for creating differentiated architectural building elements with a resourceful approach to material use and require a minimum of resources during fabrication.

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