The Computational Clay Column: Computational ceramic systems with additive manufacturing

This paper presents a different conceptual approach and robotic fabrication strategy for ceramic additive manufacturing showcased through a fundamental architectural element, the column. The Computational Clay Column is treated as double system made out of core and skin, both fabricated with 3D clay printing. The underlying principle is the spatial self-interlocking of the two subsystems, core and skin, thus eliminating the need for a substructure or fastening. A particular emphasis is placed on the infill beyond its stabilizing function. Expressive and ornamental value is not only assigned to the skin but also translated to the infill. Based on a conceptual strategy of unwinding, the infill is punctually exposed, showcasing it to the viewer and amplifying the ornamental aesthetic and digital materiality of the computational design strategy and robotic fabrication logic. By exposing the core with its ceramic self-interlocking system, the tectonic expressiveness of the column as an architectural archetype is amplified. The research discusses the computational workflows, material experimentation, the interlocking and assembly logic, fabrication strategy as well as the concepts of digital craft and digital materiality. The applied methodology is based on research-through-design. No prioritization is given to form over material and process of production. The knowledge derived from analog and robotic material experimentation as well as clay’s specific material behavior relating to drying, shrinkage and warping are used to inform the design, production sequence and fabrication logic.