2019-2023 Projects

Reciprocal Shell

Autumn 2022

International workshop. Chalmers University of Technology + Augsburg University of Applied Sciences

Jonas Lundberg

Kengo Skorick

Göteborg

The workshop’s demonstrator was a lightweight freeform structure that was optimized for fabrication and assembly. Most of the manufacturing was done with a saw blade, which allowed for very fast and precise cuts. The shell’s fundamental structure was planar polygonal facets with always three edges joined. Cross bracing was achieved within these polygonal segments using a reciprocal pattern of wood beams. The use of a reciprocal node to connect the cross-bracing elements in the middle of the polygons enabled for stronger joints throughout the structure without the need of metal plates or brackets. There were very few offcuts produced throughout the fabrication process. After the design and construction workshop, the structure was load tested until being completed with a transparent roof cover. It will be exhibited as part of the 300year anniversary festival of the city of Göteborg.