Voxel Beam

Voxelbeam explores precedents in the optimization of architectural structures, namely the Sydney Opera house Arup beam.The authors research three areas crucial to conceiving an innovative contemporary reinterpretation of the beam: A shift in structural analysis techniques from analytical to numerical models such as topology optimization, the fundamental differences between digital and analog representations of structural forces, and the translation of structural analysis data into methods for digital fabrication.The research aims to re-contextualize the structural beam within contemporary digital platforms, explores the architectural implications of topology optimization, and proposes two fabrication strategies based on the analysis results -including automated off-site pre-casting and multi-material 3d printing.