A new approach to the creation of metal structures - the nest of the water spider

The Institute for Building Structures and Design (ITKE) held an exhibition in the pavilion of the University of Stuttgart, presenting the "Nest of the water spider". The design concept is based on the study of biological construction processes for the construction of reinforced metal structures. The exhibition showcases the architectural potential of a new construction method inspired by the underwater spider's nest. The water spider spends most of its life underwater, where it builds a reinforced air bubble, the design of which was taken as a basis.

This work was carried out in collaboration with the Institute for Computational Design (ICD). In the process of web construction, a model of a real spider nest was considered and the design rules transmitted in the manufacturing process were analyzed. At the beginning of the design and construction process, the shell geometry is created based on the calculation of the supporting elements of the biological structure, connecting various interconnected structural parts. The shell is mounted on a concrete base.

In accordance with an adaptive design computational strategy, a steel bar-reinforced fabrication process was developed, replicating the natural design. The process of placing the "fibers" is carried out by a robot. In order to adapt to these parameters during the production process, a sensor system is used that is integrated into the real-time robot control system. This represents an important achievement not only in the context of this project, but in wider application, opening up new possibilities for adaptive robotic construction processes.

The nature of the manufacturing process requires the use of new materials. Thus, the dome is covered with a translucent ETFE film, which is a complex polymer and has thermal insulation properties. This film is used to create complex and unique architectural shapes. At the same time, its transparency makes it possible to use it instead of glass, but at the same time there are practically no restrictions on the shapes and sizes of structures.