Modern, high-performance building envelopes require the integration of numerous functions within a discrete, panelized construction system. This research began with a question: “Can additive manufacturing (AM) improve the performance of a building envelope by allowing for the enhanced integration of diverse goals such as light transmission, insulation, thermal mass, natural ventilation, and structure?” One of the key capabilities of AM is its ability to produce topologically complex forms. Topology is a branch of mathematics that is concerned with how the geometric properties of a shape are affected by continuous transformations. Famous examples include the Möbius strip and Klein bottle. By controlling the connectivity of internal passages and layers, this building envelope provides enhanced thermal performance while allowing light transmission and reducing the need for inefficient glazing systems.

In the prototype presented here, two topological regions are created. One connects an inner void with the outside and inside of the façade through apertures, and the other connects the inner void of the outer layer and inner layer. The outer surface is corrugated through a “reaction diffusion” algorithm, producing rib-like stiffeners which enhance the structural stability of the outer surface. Future work in this area will investigate the addition of translucent insulation materials like silica gel, as well as phase change materials (PCM) for energy storage. These materials can be placed within the envelope according to solar gain in interconnected passages which allow for efficient thermal transfer.