3D-printed multi-material system made of thermoplastic gives train stations a sci-fi look

The roof of London's Euston station is a large-scale building element for the virtual application of the integrated Metaplas system, created by students at the Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL), University of London
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As part of an investigation carried out by Research Group 8 (RC8) of the Master in Architectural Design, the students developed a 3D-printed multi-material system from degradable and recyclable thermoplastics
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Transforming a series of slabs into complex three-dimensional forms, the students created a structural system with geometric pleats that passively control lighting in interior spaces
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Contemporary design and construction methods often lack a model for unifying design, materials, structural requirements and fabrication through digital tools
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Responding to this lack, Metaplas is the result of an exploration into the realization of a holistic building system through digitization
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Additionally, the system can be manufactured in an environmentally friendly and ethical manner, potentially providing economic benefits as well
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For example, in the case of Euston Station, recycling and 3D printing facilities located within a limited radius of the site were mapped and identified to boost the local economy
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Through extensive research into 3D printing materials, students at the Bartlett School of Architecture have identified two potential recyclable thermoplastics -- rigid PLA (polylactic acid) and flexible filament TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) -- as potential candidates for realizing multi-material folding panels the best choice
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The panel is 3D printed flat and turned into a three-dimensional object through an integrated patterning system
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The panel pleats that make up the structure are reinforced by a cable system and a clip closure mechanism, which facilitates assembly, disassembly and maintenance
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According to the team, "bending as a geometric tool is enhanced through a bespoke process that involves structural analysis prior to bending
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The areas that require more structure are the densest in the bending, while the areas that are inherently structured are the most dense in the bend.
is relatively rare
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Likewise, it is proposed to integrate thermochromic plastics by embedding a micropattern on each panel
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This type of plastic stands out for its color, which allows the material to change color with changes in temperature
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Its application realizes passive control of indoor space lighting, improves the comfort of the environment, and also creates a sense of direction in the space
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In addition to its multiple environmental, technological and economic benefits, the Metaplas system is presented as an interesting reference on how structural systems can function effectively from the micro-scale to the macro-scale, showing that the strength and flexibility of the structure do not depend on to its size
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