Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
10:09
Operation of the Collaborative Composite Manufacturing (CCM) System
Published on: October 1, 2019
Beyond assemblies: system convergence and multi-materiality
1Southern California Institute of Architecture, 2404 Wiltshire Boulevard, Suite 8D, Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA. twiscombe@gmail.com
Bioinspiration & Biomimetics
|February 21, 2012
Summary
Advanced composite materials offer a new path for architectural innovation, enabling true integration of building systems and aesthetics. This approach moves beyond traditional construction towards smart, multi-functional materials and 3D manufacturing for novel designs.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Architecture
- Engineering
Background:
- The construction industry's specialization has led to fragmented building systems, hindering true integration.
- Current integration methods, like Building Information Modeling (BIM), often fail to achieve holistic system synergy.
- A disconnect exists between technological advancements and aesthetic considerations in architectural design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how composite materials can revolutionize architectural design by enabling true system integration.
- To investigate the potential of composites to merge structural, envelope, and functional building systems.
- To envision future architectural possibilities through multi-materiality and 3D manufacturing.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of composite material properties and their application in architecture.
- Exploration of how material plasticity and performance can drive system convergence.
- Projection of future manufacturing techniques like 3D printing for embedded systems.
Main Results:
- Composite materials inherently fuse envelope and structure, offering a unified approach.
- Composites can be engineered to conduct air/fluids and integrate lighting/energy systems.
- Future applications include multi-materiality and 3D manufacturing for embedded systems and variable properties.
Conclusions:
- Rethinking architectural systems through composites enables innovation in both technology and aesthetics.
- The shift towards polymers and 'healing' materials redefines assembly processes.
- Emerging technologies point towards a new paradigm in architectural thinking with embedded intelligence and adaptable forms.
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