Semiramis V-Train, Zug
2022
The Tech Cluster Zug is home to the Semiramis sculpture, which symbolizes the connection between high-tech and nature. TS3 played a key role in ensuring that the complex wooden shells now appear to float weightlessly at a lofty height.
The Project
For the Tech Cluster Zug, researchers from the group of ETH architecture professors, together with Müller Illien Landscape Architects, TS3, and other partners, built a planted architectural sculpture. The 22.5-meter-tall structure consists of five geometrically complex wooden shells that—slightly offset from one another—are supported by eight slender steel columns.
The Construction Method
Working in perfect synchrony, four suspended robotic arms pick up their assigned wooden panels, perform a highly precise dance, and finally position the panels in the space according to the computer design. Once the machines have placed their four panels side by side, they bond them together at the ends using TS3 casting resin without applying pressure. In this way, between 51 and 88 such wooden panels are joined together to form a wooden shell. The TS3 system is primarily used for the construction of floor slabs, but also enables structures such as Semiramis.
The Challenges
The slender, tall structure is lavishly planted with large shrubs and trees, giving it a substantial dead weight. At the same time, it presents a large surface area exposed to the wind. Thanks to the advantageous rounded shape of the shells, the wind is directed around the structure.
Construction data
Architecture
Matthias Kohler, Professor of Architecture and Digital Fabrication, ETH Zurich; Müller Illien Landscape Architects, Zurich
Client
Urban Assets Zug AG, Zug
Timber engineer
Timbatec Timber Engineering Switzerland AG, Zurich
Timber construction
Erne AG Timber Construction, Laufenburg
CLT Manufacturer
Schilliger Holz AG, Küssnacht
Images
Trade press
More design options in timber construction thanks to innovative technology
FIRST, Issue No. 4/2023, Building and living with wood – TS3 technology has opened up completely new possibilities in the design of timber constructions. Where previously only concrete or steel could be used for structural reasons, wood can now also be used. (Report in German)
Historical model meets technical innovation
HBA, Issue No. 4/2022 – The landmark of the new Tech Cluster in Zug is as good as completed. Named after the legendary «Hanging Gardens of Babylon» - or «Semiramis» - five geometrically complex wooden shells rise up to 22.5 m high above the site. The sculpture was produced with the aid of state-of-the-art design and manufacturing processes and will subsequently be planted in accordance with the historical model.
Unique and challenging
MODULØR, Issue No. 6/2022 – The centerpiece of the emerging tech cluster in Zug is a 22.5-meter-high wooden architectural structure whose name - Semiramis - is inspired by hanging gardens and exclusive interaction with nature. (Report in German)
Witness of the building culture
Immobilien Innovation, Issue No. 10/2022 – A very special high-rise has been built on the Tech Cluster site in Zug: The Semiramis plant tower was designed with the help of a machine learning algorithm and realized with an innovative timber construction technology. (Report in german)
Stacked trees
Hochparterre, Issue No. 9/2022 – A 25-meter-high tree sculpture has stood on the Tech Cluster in Zug since the beginning of July. It bears the name of Queen Semiramis, who is said to have created the ancient world wonder of the hanging gardens. (Report in German)
Staggered
Wir Holzbauer, Issue No. 6/2022 – Artificial intelligence and four robots were the master builders of the 22.5-meter-high structure that has marked the entrance to the Tech Cluster Zug site since July 6. The planted architectural sculpture consists of five geometrically complex wooden shells supported by eight slender steel columns. (Report in german)
