Fourth experimental pavilion of students from the University of Stuttgart

A new experimental pavilion has risen on the Stuttgart university campus during the summer holidays, marking the fourth such structure. After a successful previous collaboration, professors Achim Menges and Jan Knippers brought in paleobiologists from the University of Tübingen, along with the newly involved Evolutionary and Ecological Institute. The Stuttgart ICD (Institute for Computer Design) and ITKE (Institute for Structural Mechanics and Design) have long been engaged in the development of new structures using modern methods. The new pavilion is the result of ongoing bionic research, which followed a pavilion derived from the natural realm in November 2012. This year's project's aim was to research the external exoskeletons of beetles and subsequently apply the knowledge in the robotic production of fiber structures made from reinforced polymers. The result is a two-layer composite structure that minimizes the need for formwork while maintaining a high degree of geometric freedom. The final structure consists of 36 woven elements, each of which is self-supporting and extremely lightweight. The largest piece has a diameter of 2.6 meters and weighs just 24.1 kilograms. The entire pavilion occupies an area of 50 m², encloses a space of 122 m³, and weighs 593 kg. Its shape responds to the surroundings, opening up to the university square against the backdrop of the city park.



More information about ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2013-14 >