Kerf Bending and Zipper-in Spatial Timber Tectonics

Space frames are widely used in spatial constructions as they are lightweight, rigid, and efficient. However, when it comes to the complex and irregular spaces frames, they can be difficult to fabricate because of the uniqueness of the nodes and bars. This paper presents a novel timber space frame system that can be easily manufactured using 3-axis CNC machines, and therefore increase the ease of the design and construction of complex space frames. The form-finding of the space frame is achieved with the help of polyhedral graphic statics (PGS), and resulted form has inherent planarity which can be harnessed in the materialization of the structure. Inspired by the traditional wood tectonics kerf bending and zippers are applied when devising the connection details. The design approach and computational process of this system are described, and a test fabrication of a single node is made via 3-axis CNC milling and both physically and numerically tested. The structural performance shows its potentials for applications in large-scale spatial structures.