A wood-wood joining system suitable for digital fabrication and its application in the design of a “wood-only” spatial modulea

Abstract

This paper describes a wood-wood spatial joining system adapted to digital fabrication which has been designated the “Spatial Masterkey”. The wood stereotomy of the joints between the different pieces that make up this joining system is inspired by a three-dimensional puzzle called “snowflake”. The production process used in the masterkey system can be carried out using only a 3-axis CNC milling machine—a relatively affordable and easily accessible tool. By using digital manufacturing for the execution of wood-wood joints, several benefits are obtained including faster machining and greater cutting precision and uniformity in the products produced. These advantages make this joining system both economically competitive and environmentally friendly. Additionally, the versatility of this joining system means that its configuration can be adapted to a wide range of casuistry of encounters between members, which means that it can be used for a number of spatial assemblies. This includes, but is not limited to, the spatial module presented in this document.

Key words： Wood-wood joinery; Digital fabrication; 3-Axis CNC; Spatial module; Sustainability; Burr puzzle