They call it a pavilion. We call it a thing. But not a thing as in fashionable, happenin’ or “in”. No, it’s a structure recently completed in Nanjing. And it’s also an architectural and mathematical marvel that is the world’s largest 3D-printed pavilion.
Located in the Happy Valley theme park in Pukou District, just across the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, the pavilion breaks new ground for architecture on account of its unique design.
The concept was proposed by Shanghai-based Archi-Union Architects and Fab Union that works with integrated models for human-machine collaboration in the construction life-cycle. Revealing the project’s inspirations, the organisations said, “It is intended to reflect an avant-garde structure standing tall and fascinating as a futuristic wonder, opening the way to another dimension”, reported 3D Natives on 7 July.
Derived from a mathematical formula (part of which is Sin(x)Sin(2y)Sin(3z) for those who are interested), the specifications for the project call the design “multi-dimensional geometric topology to enhance spacial permeability”.
At which point, The Nanjinger wishes to say, “Whatever”. But, being based on such a formula also meant it was a cinch to 3D Print.
First, the skin of the structure was divided into panels based on the aforementioned formula, known as a “surface subdivision optimisation algorithm”.
After much research and testing, it was then decided to go with an outdoor UV-resistant colour-modified thermoplastic for each of the 3D-printed panels. These were placed on an interior steel frame embedded on a keel. Yes, just like a ship.
In terms of size, the pavilion could easy pass for a ship too. A spaceship. At 52 metres long and 26 metres wide, were it to be unfolded, the surface would occupy 1,950 square metres. At least enough space for a swimming pool.
So there you have it. Pavilion or thing; you decide. What’s for certain is that it’s very fashionable, very happenin’, very “in” and very Nanjing.
