BAMBOOK
2021A bamboo based modular construction system
Bambook is a bamboo based modular construction system, which serves to generate flat and curved surface. It is designed for small temporary constructions, for coverings, small events, for stands, eventually greenhouses and generally for rural or low-density environment contexts. The images on the side are taken from the final work and show a a potential application of the system as a awning system for amphitheaters. Bambook is currently under development.
ASSEMBLAGE
The main connecting element is made up of a 3 way node. It consists of a central metal plate (01), to which are radially attached three cylinders (3), into which can be inserted bamboo stalks (12). However, bamboo stalks do not all present the same internal diameter. Therefore, the connection cylinders are covered with a sponge-like sleeve with two different hardness gradations (09-10), thus allowing the insertion of the stalks, regardless of their inner diameter.
The node is then covered with a wooden casing (04), which does not have a primary mechanical function.
Holes drilled in the central metal plate provide a way to attach the six tensioners - metal cables - and anchor them by carabiners to a central circular plate. After the tensioners are attached, the resulting hexagonal element is is tightened and under tension. In this way should be not even necessary to clamp or fasten the ends of the bamboo stalks. They are under compression and fixed in place and therefore not be able to move.
CONSTRUCTION PRINCIPLES
The resulting element is a hexagonal module. The six main nodes can be fixed and tightened to a central disc by means of steel cables. This module can be repeated on 2 axes to generate surfaces. On the inner side the modules are tensioned by means of a continuous additional steel cable, on the outer side they can be covered i.e. with truck tarpaulin segments, which in turn further stretch and stiffen the resulting surface, and make it partially waterproof. Bambook can be used to construct both flat and curved surfaces. The bamboo segments can be bent as desired during the drying process, depending on the type of surface to be processed.
