Shape-control in an architectural context is expected to provide unique opportunities for buildings with enhanced functionality, flexibility, energy performance, and occupants comfort. An architectural concept is proposed which consists of a parallel arrangement of planar n-bar mechanisms formulating its skeleton structure and a membrane material stretched over it to define the building envelope. Overall shape changes involve coordinated motion of the individual planar mechanisms. Each linkage is equipped with one motion actuator as well as brakes installed on every joint. Reconfigurations of the building are based on the “effective 4-bar (E4B)” concept allowing stepwise adjustments. Each intermediate step involves the selective locking of (n − 4) joints on each closed-loop linkage effectively reducing it to a single degrees-of-freedom (DOF) 4-bar mechanism, the configuration of which can be adjusted using the available motion actuator. A reconfiguration of the mechanism can be realized through alternative control sequences and an optimal one can be selected based on specific criteria. The paper reports the fundamental design and control concepts. A simulation and an experimental study are presented to demonstrate the implementation of the general reconfiguration approach and examine relevant issues.

Supported through technological advances, the concept of kinetic architecture is internationally increasingly acknowledged in the past years in the development of adaptable buildings as to differing functional requirements, or external loading conditions. Most decisive factor is the structure in terms of materials and geometrical configurations, and the control system integrated within. Based on general principles of tensegrity structures, a hybrid system has been developed that consists of continuous hinge connected compression members, strengthened by an internal system of struts and continuous cable diagonals with closed loop. The kinetic mechanism is achieved through alteration of the cables length and the respective relative inclination of any adjacent compression members. In this way the transformability of the system arises primarily from the inherent integrative composition and dual capabilities of its members. Following the construction design of the prototype structure, the interactive development, as regards geometric properties and structural configurations, is presented analytically, as based on a parametric-associative design approach applied. Along this line, the specific syntax of structural development and simulation through parametric design is suggested to support in real terms the control design of the innovative structure in an integrated interactive context.

This article examines the structural behaviour of six structural units composed of single, simply paired and paired-interconnected bending-active members, coupled with a single cable element. The form-found curvilinear shape of the members is achieved through fastening by contracting auxiliary elements, as well as through further deformation by decreasing the cable’s length. The overall structural behaviour of the units is investigated based on a step-by-step finite-element analysis. All units are evaluated with regard to the components’ stresses and deformations developed during the form-finding process and subsequent external vertical loading, for different possible section thickness values of the elastic members.