PENTA-HARD: Self-Built Architectural Prototype With Additively Manufactured (3D Printed) Joints

This future architectural prototype is composed of standardized parts and 3D printed (additive manufactured) metal joints to allow users to build by themselves at a low cost. The structure is assembled with lightweight aluminum pipes where joints are plugged in, in a straightforward, flexible way. The user can freely define the structure layout depending on the site and according to lifestyle and personal preferences. The geometry is the combination of fixed-shape tetrahedrons with non-fixed-shape pentahedrons and hexahedrons that allow the creation of a diversity of soft architectural forms based on uniform-length pipes. By only changing the joints set, the user can change the entire architectural form to adapt to a new site or to accommodate a new requirement when moving or renovating. Other than the joints, all parts, such as aluminum pipes, triangular insulation panels, etc., are standardized and reusable. Referring to the joint manufacturing craftsmanship of traditional Japanese houses and using new additive manufacturing technology that can swiftly output complex shapes, construction is simplified, and customized space can be easily created.