From Pagodas to Printed Homes: Exploring the Flexural Strain, Deflection, and Relative Strength of 3D Printed Japanese Joinery
by Kevin Slattery
Category: STEM
Abstract – Large-scale 3D printing, a recent technological advancement, is a cost-efficient and eco-friendly method of construction. However, its products suffer from poor aesthetics, which drive away many potential buyers. Refraining from using any nails, screws, and adhesives, traditional Japanese joints truly depict the beauty of Japanese nature. The application of traditional Japanese joinery may solve the poor aesthetics of large-scale 3D printed structures. Furthermore, these joints are historically earthquake resistant and may improve the safety of 3D printed structures against natural disasters. This study explores the potential uses and limits of 3D printed Japanese joinery when applied to largescale structures. Four traditional joints were 3D printed using Poly Acetic filament (PLA) at 10 % infill. Three-point flexural tests were analyzed using digital image correlation (DIC) to determine each joint’s strain to failure, deflection, and relative strength. The Kanawa Tsugi joint had a significantly higher flexural strain than the other joints tested. Moreover, there were various statistical differences observed among deflection measurements of each joint. 3D printed Japanese joinery could be applied for quick assemble purposes, such as for building formwork.