Clemson University has been in the spotlight for the past few months thanks to its thrilling BCS National Championship win. But that doesn’t mean other departments within the university aren’t pulling their weight, too.
Clemson’s School of Architecture has recently received attention for its new framing method: the Sim[PLY] Framing System. The system is created from locally sourced plywood and uses a computer numeric control (CNC) fabricator to cut the components. After being pre-cut and pre-measured, the framing can be flat-packed for shipment, which allows for the use of small transport vehicles.
Beyond the sustainability and transportation benefits, Sim[PLY] provides strong thermal performance. “The wall cavity depth can be easily scaled up or down, for greater or less insulating value, as needed,” says Dustin Albright, Assistant Professor, Clemson School of Architecture. “Moreover, Sim[PLY] walls have minimal thermal bridging compared to inline framing. These measures would otherwise require offset studs or Larsen truss construction, if using conventional lumber.”
The base of a Sim[PLY] Framing System wall prior to standing it. This wall was part of the initial prototype of the Indigo Pine House, Clemson’s 2015 Solar Decathlon entry. Courtesy Clemson University School of Architecture.
What is really helping to set Sim[PLY] apart from other prefabricated structures is how it is put together. Thanks to a patent-pending interlocking tab-and-slot connection method, the structure can be assembled by unskilled labor without the use of power tools or nails. All that is required to build the structure are steel zip ties and screws.
The connection system means assembling the structure is similar to building a 3D puzzle, and because no nails are used, the system can be disassembled just as easily as it is assembled, without causing any structural damage.
“Non-destructive disassembly involves snipping the cable ties and popping the joints loose with a
mallet. The pieces are then ready to flat-pack and reuse elsewhere,”
says Albright.
Sim[PLY] was used to build CropStop in Greenville, S.C., an incubator kitchen and gathering place that allows crop owners to process their harvests to meet local demand for farm-to-table foods. Albright says Sim[PLY] is “gathering interest” from CropStop partners in Florida, as well.
Clemson architecture student Paul Mosher cuts components for a full-scale mockup. Courtesy Clemson University School of Architecture.
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Jul 9, 2021
MojoDesk creates a new solution for managing open office distractions
The MojoDome allows for a private work space while also maintaining a collaborative environment.
Great Solutions | Mar 18, 2021
Follow the leader: New following technology better equips robots for the jobsite
New proof-of-concept from Piaggio Fast Forward and Trimble enables robots and machines to follow humans.
Great Solutions | Feb 11, 2021
Simplifying the return to the office
A new web-based tool from Sasaki takes the guesswork out of heading back to the workplace.
Great Solutions | Oct 6, 2020
Could water-filled windows help buildings save energy?
New research shows how water-filled glass could help heat and cool buildings.
Great Solutions | Aug 10, 2020
From lobby to penthouse, elevators can be a 100% touch-free experience
The Toe-To-Go elevator system allows riders to operate the elevator entirely with their feet.
Great Solutions | Jul 13, 2020
Essential protection for businesses
Custom protective barriers help keep essential business employees safe.
Great Solutions | Apr 13, 2020
Family workstations highlight the new Fairfield Area Library
The workstations are the perfect remedy for squirming, restless children and toddlers.
Great Solutions | Feb 5, 2020
Power moves: The Shed
Precise positioning of mechanicals above its lighting keeps New York’s kinetic event space, The Shed, running.
Great Solutions | Dec 18, 2019
Robot uprising
Thyssenkrupp’s robotics interface platform helps robots use elevators like humans.
Great Solutions | Nov 12, 2019
Skanska designs personal protective equipment tailor-made for the female workforce
A safety vest is the first piece of equipment to undergo an update.