Haresh Lalvani 2021-2022

School of Architecture, Center for Experimental Structures

A visual composition highlighting Haresh Lalvani’s research from 2021–2022. The left features a complex curvilinear formwork model with internal wooden supports. The top-center displays a sequence of grayscale sculptural forms showing progressive twisting motion. The middle row shows spherical tiling models composed of grid-like modular panels. The bottom row presents a step-by-step transformation of a woven dome structure constructed from thin bamboo or reed material, gradually deconstructed into a flat spiral. The text

3D HYPER SURFACE: Phase 3

In this continuing project of constructing a 3D one-sided minimal surface comprising six “layers” (Layers 1-6) of laminated contoured alucobond pieces, space relocation required disassembly and reassembly of Layers 3 and 4 and led to improvements in achiev- ing dimensional accuracy of assembly. New construction features (cross-bars, internal rods) were introduced. Free-standing walls required tension attachments to the outer walls. Layers 1 and 2 are ready for assembly. This will be followed by development of the foundation plate and on-site installation sequence.

An abstract, curved wooden structure supported by a metal framework with clamps and wood beams for support, resembling an experimental architectural form or art installation in progress.

A close-up view of a construction setup featuring a wooden frame clamped together, with multiple metal clamps and yellow tension straps holding the structure in place. The image shows various tools and colored markers on the frame.

A technical drawing showcasing a structural design, where various lines and arrows point to numbered components (1, 2, 3) near a green curved section. The drawing features labels on the right-hand side (A, B, C) and appears to indicate points of tension or load in the structure, with some red arrows suggesting directional forces.

[Credits:]

Principal Investigator: Haresh Lalvani

Research Interns: Matthew Mitchell, Quinten Oxender

UG Research Assistants: Tron Le, Dillon Marlow

Consultant: Mohamad Fahan

Industrial Support: Milgo-Bufkin

CURVED PENTILE SURFACES

A new type of brick (tile) construction requiring variable gaps provides a way to build compound curved surfaces with positive and negative curvature using identical flat non-standard bricks (tiles). Spheres using a 72-degree rhombus from our Pentiles set (n=5 case) are our starter examples (spheres, cylinders, saddles) for more complex space- filling curved surfaces. Variable gaps bypass the mathematical limitation of 60 (or 120) identical tiles with no gaps permitted to cover a sphere. Works of Guastavino and the structure of viruses have been inspirational.

Four geometric patterns arranged in a 2x2 grid. The top two images show cube-like shapes composed of wooden tiles arranged in a diamond pattern. The bottom two images depict black diamond gridlines on a white background, creating a mesh-like structure. The gridlines in both bottom images extend in different perspectives, providing a sense of depth.

A digital rendering of a spherical object with a smooth lower hemisphere and a grid-patterned upper hemisphere. The grid consists of small square tiles that wrap around the upper part of the sphere, creating a geometric, faceted texture.

An interior view of a geometric structure composed of small square tiles arranged in a grid-like pattern. The tiles are placed in a curving, faceted formation, and light seeps through the gaps between them, creating a glowing effect from behind.

[Credits:]

Principal Investigator: Haresh Lalvani

UG Research Assistants: Tron Le, Dillon Marlow, Rithika Vedapuri, Emma Xu

BAMBOO X-POD: PHASE I

Bamboo X-POD, an expandable structure for rapid deployment of an emergency shelter for climate refugees, is being prototyped using bamboo and bio-fibers. It deploys from a 2D to a 3D spatial structure using structural methods of deployment which include spacers, hinged arches, scissors-devices or cables. Hygroscopic forming, like wetting and drying, show promise. Scaled prototype studies used small diameter reeds with bio- fiber connections. Bamboo X-POD is a sequel to its metal precedent X-POD138 (2014) and part of the broader X-Bamboo expanded structure.

A circular, flat bamboo structure, meticulously woven in concentric layers. Thin bamboo strips are held together by white adhesive tape at consistent intervals, forming a precise, minimalist design with an open center. The repetitive pattern of the bamboo strips creates a visually appealing, geometric structure that lies flat against the surface.

A close-up view of a curved bamboo structure, highlighting the individual bamboo rods tied together at intersecting points. The structure is secured with white tape and strings, demonstrating its flexibility and intricate craftsmanship. The image focuses on the smooth curve of the bamboo, with the background softly blurred, drawing attention to the details of the assembly.

Close-up of natural fiber rope tightly wrapped around several thin bamboo sticks, serving as a binding to hold the structure together. The background is blurred, emphasizing the detailed texture of the rope and bamboo.

[Credits:]

Principal Investigator: Haresh Lalvani

UG Research Assistants: Tron Le, Guiben Zheng, Dillon Marlow, Tianyi Wang, Anna Kondrashova

FRACTAL RULED SURFACES

We continue our explorations of 3D hyperstructures using robotically wire-cut modules to build periodic, non-periodic and asymmetric curved surfaces. We show two examples of space-filling surfaces (n=6 case) based on the pentagonal prism and the icosahedron using cells of the diamond lattice. Their 3D cells, saddle hex panels (p=6 case) and cell clusters are shown with thin wire-cut foam panels and its modules. All bounding surfaces of all modules are ruled surfaces. Precedents of ruled surfaces include the works of Gaudi, Candela and Calatrava.

A series of four geometric, twisting forms displayed against a black background. The sculptures vary in shape, from more subtle bends to more exaggerated twists, creating dynamic silhouettes. The smooth surface of each form captures light and shadow, emphasizing the curvature and sharp edges. The progression of the shapes suggests a gradual transformation or exploration of twisting geometries in three-dimensional space.

Four geometric wireframe shapes in progressive stages of transformation, each shape showing different facets with gridlines mapped across their surfaces, rendered in a minimal black and white aesthetic.

Two geometric wireframe models showcasing twisting, grid-like surfaces. The upper model displays a curved form intersected by red lines, indicating specific directions of rotation or force applied to the shape. The lower model mirrors this approach with green directional lines, demonstrating similar twists but from a different angle and perspective. These models emphasize the transformation of flat grids into dynamic, non-planar surfaces, presenting a study of twisting geometries in a structured space.

Two geometric models with black grid lines showing 3D surfaces and intersecting shapes. Red and green arrows indicate directional axes, showcasing the complex curvature and structural components of the models.

Abstract 3D mesh with black grid lines, creating a network of curved and angular surfaces. The composition consists of complex intersections and smooth transitions between shapes, featuring contrasting light and shadow effects throughout the structure.

[Credits:]

Principal Investigator: Haresh Lalvani

Research Intern: Ahmad Tabbakh

UG Research Assistants: Ashkan Eslamifard, Jiayue “Chloe” Ni, Ahan Patil, Tyler Haas