Stem and root branching types of selected plant species as concept generators for supporting and anchoring structures (A06)

• Subject Area: Evolution and Systematics of Plants and Fungi ; Structural Engineering, Building Informatics and Construction Operation ; Materials in Sintering Processes and Generative Manufacturing Processes
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 231064407

Ramifications in plants show markedly different fibre arrangements for achieving structural integrity. The outer form and the inner structure of various plant branchings have been analysed, abstracted and FE-modelled. Partly based on such inspiration from biological role models, a novel process for the braiding of branchings has been developed. In the second funding period special focus will be laid on the functional morphology and mechanical behaviour of branched roots as concept generators for bioinspired anchoring systems in architecture. Fabrication will be extended towards 3D-weaving processes.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 141: Biological Design and Integrative Structures. Analysis, Simulation and Implementation in Architecture
• Applicant Institution: Universität Stuttgart
• Project Heads: Professor Dr.-Ing. Götz T. Gresser; Professor Dr.-Ing. Jan Knippers; Dr. Tom Masselter