ThinLam Element
| Project Title | ThinLam Element |
| Project Subtitle | Development of an innovative fastening solution for thin glass elements for use in adaptive facades |
| Projectleader | Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann (TU Dresden) |
| Researchers |
Elena Fleckenstein (TU Dresden) |
| Partners | |
| Funding | BMWK – Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand (ZIM) |
| Time Spam | 2025-2027 |
Project Description
Thin glass opens up new design possibilities for architects and planners: it is easily deformable, transparent, and allows for individual, more freely formed façades with low self-weight. In addition, it can be used as a flexible material in adaptive, movable façade systems. However, since thin glass is still a relatively new material in construction, numerous open questions remain - particularly regarding fastening, load-bearing capacity, and durability.
The aim of this research project is therefore to develop an innovative fastening solution for thin glass elements, specifically designed for adaptive façades. At the core is an application-oriented fastening concept, developed with the help of a parametric design tool. Based on this, the stresses on the elements are derived, and preliminary tests are conducted to investigate the load-bearing capacity of thin glass. From these findings, requirements for fastening elements that are as filigree as possible yet structurally resilient are defined.
In addition to material, composite, and load-bearing capacity investigations, novel fastening solutions with integrated actuators are developed. To increase durability, a specially designed edge protection is also created, tailored to the specific properties of thin glass and its high deformations. A supplementary numerical model refines the structural design and is validated through experimental large scale component tests. The resulting findings are integrated into the design tool and expand it into a dimensioning tool.
Contact person TU Dresden
© Franziska Rehde
Research Associate
NameDipl.-Ing. Elena Fleckenstein
Send encrypted email via the SecureMail portal (for TUD external users only).
Institute of Building Construction
Institute of Building Construction
Visiting address:
NÜR, Room 06-013 Nürnberger Straße 31A
01187 Dresden
© Franziska Rehde
Professor of Sustainable Building Construction
NameProf. Dr.-Ing. Michael Engelmann
Head of the Institute of Building Construction
Send encrypted email via the SecureMail portal (for TUD external users only).
Institute of Building Construction
Institute of Building Construction
Visiting address:
NÜR, 06-018 Nürnberger Straße 31A
01187 Dresden