Iconic
Context: Material-driven research (MDD) and open distributed digital fabrication.
The Brief & Research: This research initiative focused on exploring sustainable manufacturing alternatives by investigating the mechanical properties of a recycled PETG eco-composite derived from plant-based sources. This biopolymer is significantly lighter than wood or metal and allows for the execution of highly complex geometric forms via additive manufacturing.
The Design Solution: To overcome the physical build-volume limitations of commercial 3D printers, the project utilizes a scalable, modular approach driven by lean manufacturing principles, expanding into a cohesive furniture collection:
• Modular Shelving System: A flexible unit system where a single printed module functions independently as a compact side table or a hanging wall niche. Multiple units can be printed on demand and seamlessly assembled together to scale into a comprehensive shelving structure.
• Companion Armchair: Expanding on the same unified design language, the structural arms of the companion chair were engineered to optimize the geometric footprint. This specific optimization dramatically reduced print times and eliminated material waste while maintaining robust structural integrity to support human weight safely.
Conceito
2025