Kit-of-Parts Equilateral Constant Normal Curvature (ECNC) Gridshell

This paper investigates the design and construction of doubly-curved equilateral constant normal curvature (ECNC) gridshell structures with straight, flat, and repetitive building components. Using kit-of-parts with identical shape and size, enables standardized prefabrication. These components are connected to form a collapsible scissor-hinge grid, which can be deployed onsite to create freeform gridshells. The structure is then converted into a stable triangulated grid using diagonal elements. The angles of connections between the kit-of-parts can be adjusted to accommodate different constant normal curvature values and facilitate positive and negatively curved design shapes. This approach allows for the reuse of the same repetitive components in multiple designs and life cycles, promoting a sustainable, circular building system for energy conservation and carbon reduction.