Designing a plants exhibition inspired by the structure of oyster shell
The design of the exhibition was inspired by the oyster shell. The site of the design has a gradient of 16% in the City of Kashan. The intended area is 1,300 square meters and the selected structure should cover the space. Inspired by the oyster shell, we are provided with a structure that can create the highest span with the least thickness of the ceiling. The main structure was steel structure, in which the primary beams were placed in a radial way so that they formed the entire main structure of the exhibition. Secondary beams lie between these primary ones and the polycarbonate panels fill up the space between them. The use of this pattern created a uniform structure for the roof which provided a strong and static structure as well as making it possible to create a consistent space inside the exhibition due to the lack of internal columns.
Information
Category
Bionic Architecture
Team
Faezeh
Timeline
2016, for three months
Tools
Rhino, Grasshopper, V-Ray
The structure and form of natural beings are influenced by their function. Oysters are a typical example for this statement. The oyster shell, despite its very small thickness, can withstand extreme water pressure, protecting it from damage. According to studies and experiments conducted by biologists, if the oyster shell with the same thickness were perfectly smooth and polished, it would be unable to withstand water pressure. The oyster shell has folds at its surface which enables it to withstand high water pressure despite its low thickness and wide surface. Experiments on the simulated shells and to determine their resistance in different states (polished and smooth surface, smooth surface with a protrusion in the center, the surface of the natural oyster sample with radial divisions and scalloped edges).
