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Design and modelling of Heinz Isler’s Sicli shell

Chuang, Chu-Chun; Chilton, John

Authors

Chu-Chun Chuang

JOHN CHILTON John.Chilton@nottingham.ac.uk
Professor Ofarchitecture & Tectonics



Abstract

In 1969 a thin concrete shell roof designed by the master shell builder Heinz Isler was erected for the fire extinguisher manufacturer Sicli, SA, in Geneva, Switzerland. From this research carried out at the Heinz Isler Archive at ETH Zürich, it was found that more, previously unrevealed, alternative proposals and physical models were employed to accomplish this project.
This paper describes an investigation of the original physical modelling process of the Sicli shell and discusses the infinite potential of form-finding methods for shaping a good shell. Four alternative free-form design schemes proposed by Isler for the Sicli shell, in addition to the final chosen hanging cloth modelling approach, are introduced and discussed. The actual construction details of the Sicli shell will be reviewed with regard to both architectural and engineering perspectives. In conclusion, more research to be carried out on the valuable legacy of Isler’s form-finding techniques is suggested.

Citation

Chuang, C., & Chilton, J. (2016). Design and modelling of Heinz Isler’s Sicli shell.

Conference Name “Spatial Structures in the 21st Century” IASS Annual Symposium 2016
Acceptance Date Jul 7, 2016
Publication Date Sep 26, 2016
Deposit Date Aug 1, 2016
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Keywords Heinz Isler, concrete shells, conceptual design, form finding, optimization
Public URL https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/801794
Publisher URL https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/iass/piass/2016/00002016/00000002/art00015

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