Acoustic Mirros

The interdisciplinary project bridging physics and architecture consists of two 2-meter large monolithic concave mirrors. These mirrors are designed to allow people to communicate by whispering over a large distance, making use of a physical effect, which can be found in the historic architecture of whispering galleries.

The organic and highly ornate design of the mirrors was generated through topology optimization and custom design software, integrating acoustic, structural, and fabrication parameters. An optimal weight to strength ratio could be achieved by selectively distributing material along the flow of forces.

Using binder-jet 3D printing technology the resulting complex forms could be materialized in a fully automated and materially efficient fabrication process. The precision which is at a fraction of a millimetre allowed the creation of the precise parabolic cavity that was designed for reflecting parallel sound waves at a specific distance.

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