Full scale final design blocks. The Ground Unit identified below was eliminated. Instead, the Basic Unit simply gains a flat edge to create the new ground unit block (green). This removes the need for a separate linkage between the ground blocks and eliminates the need for a larger printer. This new block type contains two variations to create a seamless linkage.
WAST3D POTENTIAL
Thesis Project
Fall 2022-Spring 2023 - Rhode Island School of Design
Advisors: Marthe Rowen, Heinrich Hermann
I marvelled at the Basalt rock formations on my trip to Iceland during the summer of 2022. I pondered how I could combine my interest in 3D printing with this geological inspiration.
My material research on 3D printing projects led me to conclude that recycled waste plastic was the most suitable for my purposes. Scale became the immediate challenge to address due to the limitation of printer size. Building blocks were designed to form a wall system. Each iteration, shown below, had pros and cons. A kit assembly was proposed and a bill of materials outlined to build an example structure.
The Design Ruleset:
- Assembles and stacks without adhesive
- No heavy machinery required for assembly
- Repairable and expandable
- Strong in compression, holds its own weight
- Modifiable to serve as a functional component (integrates structural or mechanical systems)
- Promotes architectural beauty and variability
Abstract
Waste is obsolete. Standard building industry practices are harmful to the environment. Non-traditional construction methods were examined as alternatives. Circular design logic was the guiding principle in material choice. Additive manufacturing is a proven modern method for building construction. Research on 3D printing case studies revealed that recycled plastic is a proven material and readily available. Removing plastic waste from the environment and sequestering it in architectural components gives the material a new purpose. The component of focus was a building block for a wall assembly. Inspiration was taken from the hexagonal Basalt rock formations found near volcanic fault lines. The final design included interlocking hexagonal block pieces linked and stacked together to form a wall. Additional structural support is provided by driven pilings that pass through shafts in the wall blocks. A full scale assembly would use filament made from recycled plastic to print all necessary blocks. A kit assembly was proposed that included the quantities of each block type required to build an example structure plus additional store-bought hardware.