GALVAN

GALVAN is a structural connector system designed to merge digital fabrication with accessible woodworking. The core idea is to give you complete autonomy to create, adapt, and expand your own furniture smartly.

Using 3D printing alongside low-cost commercial materials—such as wooden dowels and boards—the system features 13 interlocking modules that allow for countless clean and functional building combinations.

What can you build?

As a proof of concept and structural validation of the system, GALVAN proposes the assembly of four main typologies:

• Stool: Compact, ergonomic, and highly resistant, tested to stably support dynamic compression loads.
• Side Table: A versatile support piece designed for everyday multifunctionality.
• Shelving Unit (5 Shelves): A wide and scalable structure designed to organize spaces with precise geometry, strictly maintaining the 5 shelves designed in the model.
• Floor Lamp: A subversion of static furniture applications, combining the modules with electrical components to bring lighting utility to your space.

Required Materials (Hardware & Wood)

The modules were sized with locally sourced hardware and lumber in mind:

• Wooden Dowels (Pine or Ipê): 28 mm diameter (the STL files already feature a 28.5 mm cavity to ensure the ideal clearance and fitting tolerance).
• Wooden Boards (MDF or Pine): 18 mm thickness (for tops and bases).
• Screws: 4x20 mm to guarantee firmness, mechanical reliability, and quick assembly/disassembly.
• Wooden Pins/Pegs: 8 mm for perfect board alignment.
• Electrical (Lamp): Simple commercial pendant kit with an E27 socket, integrated cable, and LED bulb.

Recommended 3D Print Settings

Strength is the critical point when assembling functional furniture. The following settings were extensively tested to ensure performance and safety, especially for the stool module:

• Material: PETG (highly recommended due to its mechanical strength, tensile resistance, and flexibility under stress).
• Walls (Perimeters): 4 wall loops for external structural shielding.
• Infill Density: 18%.
• Infill Pattern: Gyroid – vital for balancing lightness and multidirectional force distribution, preventing the part from shearing under weight.

Construction and Modularity

The beauty of GALVAN lies in the freedom of DIY. Adjust the height and width of your furniture simply by cutting the wooden dowels to the desired size. The system was optimized so it doesn't rely on large build plates—all connectors fit into compact printers with a build volume starting at $18\times18\times18$ cm.

Download the connectors, print them, cut your wood, and bring your ideas to life. Don't forget to share your photos and "Makes" of your finished furniture!