The Geometry of Timber Lamella Vaults: Prototype Analysis

Abstract

This paper presents timber lamella structures applied to the circular cylinder surface when all lamellae axes intersect at the nodes. To achieve the uniformity of all elements in this structure, the geometry of the structure must be carefully designed. The main methods for the research are graphical and numerical methods for geometric design and a prototype construction for a specific geometric pattern. The methods are discussed for their ease of replication, as well as the possibility of reinterpretation on other surfaces, while the prototype design and construction give insight into the process from design to execution. The combination of these methods allows for a thorough analysis of the geometry for lamella structures. The analysis shows that geometrical design must begin from the whole to the lamella, and that the number of element types in the structure depends on the disposition of the elements and the angle of the pattern. The discussion shows the advantages and limitations of the proposed methods, while the conclusions give the guidelines for the implementation of lamella structures into new design projects.