Contest description

In a surface structure multiple profiles meet at one point, where they are connected using a star-shaped node (fig. 1). The connection must fulfill constructive as well as static requirements and be suitable to be used in freeform architecture. 

Fig. 1: The node connection is especially used in freeform architecture.

Such organic-looking building envelopes can not be described by regular geometry and do not allow repeated use of identical parts. Each rod and each node is optimized for each point in the structure and is therefore unique. The sum of the parts results in the structure of the building envelope and thereby determines the shape of the building.

Fig 2: The sum of the parts results in the surface structure. 

Through the visibility of the star node through conventional methods (fig. 3) the construction gets a constructive-technical characteristic. 

Fig. 3: The profiles are connected with a star-shaped node. Through the visibility of this node the construction gets a constructive-technical characteristic.

The aim of the contest is to find a solution, how the steel bars can be connected seamlessly and in an elegant way. The single parts of the construction should not be recognizable anymore after assembly: A homogeneous and organic graceful structure is formed.

Fig. 4. The aim of the contest is to connect the bars seamlessly to create a homogeneous surface structure.

Besides the visual aspect the following functional requirements must be fulfilled: 

• Weight of the connecting piece max. 25kg / piece
• Statics (Node must transfer forces and moments from connecting elements)
• Capability to be assembled / mounted
• Efficient production process (each node is individual due to the different angles)
• The surface of the node (top and bottom) must be smooth (seal is directly placed on the node)
• The node must be applicable for different geometry. 
• The cross-section of the bars must be constant.