An exploration of materials and methods in manufacturing : shoreline membranes

Abstract

This thesis is an investigation into the design methodologies and ideologies of manufacturing processes specifically related to automotive design. The conceptualization, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing of cars is a discipline that would yield exciting results if applied to architecture. The hybridization of different processes of design will raise interesting questions of how built form is conceived, designed, developed, and constructed. An essential part of this thesis research is the study of materials. After an intense investigation of the potential uses and intrinsic properties of new materials in the automotive and construction industries, a select few materials will be applied directly in the thesis. The final component of the thesis is a programmatic theme that will revolve around shoreline membranes. They provide a lightweight and flexible system of architecture for many different building types. The investigation will involve the design of a structure in which its conception, function, production, and form are the direct result of inspiration from automotive manufacturing techniques and material research.