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A long-span construction / 2014

 If we look into the history of long-span architecture, it not only exists in modern buildings, the need of large space without columns appeared long time ago. Among them, arches have played an important role. Although nowadays high-tech structures such as Shell Structure, or Membrane Structure become a more creative solution to long-span space, Arch Structure is still an appealing answer, for it's stable loading mode and it's classic form.

To resist strong side thrust, Arch Structure needs forceful edging frame, and it is usually achieved by widening the frame. Actually if we are given the same quantity of material, the strength and stiffness of them are defined by the form. So the question is if there is possible for us to change the form of traditional arch to improve its physical property and to save the amount of raw material. 

If we constantly enlarge the curvature of a curve, the outcome seems like two lines meet on a point, and we get the Folded Plate Structure. Therefore, we can conclude that folded-plate structure is the ultimate state of arch, in which the strength and stiffness of the structure are enhanced remarkably, so I intentionally bend the control lines of the folded-plate to follow the advantages of arch structure, and finally, we obtain the new structure, Folded Arch, it not only performs as roof structure, but also as maintenance structure bearing pressure from above.

In this design, I utilized origami to do experiments, and they helped me to understand the spatial structure. What's more, I totally enjoyed doing it, so I recorded the process of making origami.