Tutors : Hyunchul Kwon (ETH Zurich), Prof. Dr. Moslem Shahverdi (Empa)

Collaborators: Dr. Zafeirios Triantafyllidis (Empa), Dr. Rudolf Hufenus (Empa)

Kinetic architecture is a concept through which buildings are designed to allow parts to move, which has been an attraction to architects and engineers. A number of kinetic buildings have been created from the late 20th century, using motors; however, the primary challenges of this method are mechanical units’ maintenance and their high energy demand. To address these shortcomings, this thesis explores 3D printing (3DP) in combination with shape memory alloys (SMAs) that can change their shape when a temperature stimulus is applied.

A significant advantage of 3DP is the precise control of geometries, resulting in the effective control of stiffness that allows gaining high control over the shape-morphing behavior of kinetic elements. SMA-actuated 3D prints offer several advantages, including no noise, lower energy consumption, and longer working life.

In this context, this thesis develops an experimental program with a series of tests, enabling higher controllability of shape morphing behavior through complex geometric features and investigating possible approaches to the material- and energy-efficient actuation. For material-efficient shape-morphing, a minimum amount of SMA-wires is embedded as a muscle into flexible and motion-optimized 3D prints.

The result of the thesis provides the analysis of the tests that focus on the range of motion, repeatability, and material- and energy-efficiency. The findings are consolidated into two scenographic prototypes, a lighting installation, and facade element, that allows to open up the discussion towards real-world applications.