Growing Tensegrity

The modular Tensegrity structure will be hanging over the site and develops as the plants grow. The transforming factor is in the weight of the plants. The structure will be located in the Torre Baró Energy District in Barcelona.

Material System

The structure of the project is based on tensegrity, it contains isolated opposable structural beams which under tension expand into a three-dimensional structure. The module forms an icosahedron, which contains 6 struts and 24 tensile elements. The transformable element of the structure allows it to collapse for easy transportation, and expand to increase maximum spatial capacity for plant growth. The beams will support the structure while simultaneously support the plants and the aeroponics system.

developing model

Aeroponic Systems

Aeroponics replace the soil with a nutrient solution allowing plants to bloom to their full potential with minimal required space. Suspended by mesh holders, the roots grow downwards from their grow beds into an enclosed repository. Nutrient solution disperses onto the roots through mist nozzles at timed intervals of 35-45 seconds with intermissions of 4-5 minutes. The roots absorb most of the nutrition while the excess drips back into the reservoir. The nutrients can be organically altered for optimum performance, reducing the use of pesticides by 100%, increase yields by 60% and can increase biomass by 80%. However, aeroponics require electricity, during a power outage the system collapses. This can be prevented through daily maintenance.