Illuminating links attempts to add to the current knowledge of 3D printed building components by creating a new type of lightweight bespoke and integrative connection system. 

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This project targets the development of a sustainable modus operandi for the construction of lightweight frame structures with the use of a novel additive manufacturing method in collaboration with material scientists from the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials.

 

Steel Gel casting is a novel method for fabricating stainless steel parts. We identify the potential of this method for its use in the construction of spatial structures. It is method that is faster, cheaper and can be scaled up for architectural applications far more easily that state-of-the-art Direct Metal Laser Sintering with the same accuracy and resolution.

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This research aims to bridge the gap between low cost standardized construction and high cost customisation by exploring the potential of computational design, mold automation and design integration of structural and operational layers.