This is a personal project to create a structural system derived from vein network of Alocasia leaves. A comparative study has been done to compare this geometry to a rectilinear framework. The Alocasia leaf’s structure shows a hierarchy of veins: 1st order, runs along the complete length of the leaf; starting at the petiole and ends at the tip. The thickness reduces towards the tip. 2nd order veins start at central veins and end at edge of the leaf. 3rd order veins form a web-like structure between two 2nd order veins. Peripheral veins run along the edge, connecting 2nd order veins. This gives the leaf stiffness. Through parametric design tools, this geometry has been replicated for a canopy structure. The result when compared to a standard grid structure, the Alocasia leaf inspired framing was found to have a clear advantage over rectilinear framing. The cross bracings and curvature give it added rigidity. Self-weight of the Alocasia leaf inspired framing is 28.4% lesser compared to rectangular frame.
