PROJECTS

SCOPE

The wood industry and its derivatives are in full expansion. The emergence of new foreign markets and the acceptance of domestic manufacturing is, in this regard, a positive sign. Marquetry is an ornamentation technique of applying pieces of veneer, with different colours, to a create geometric or organic patterns. This type of product has an important historical value, which is part of the heritage of Portuguese furniture and construction of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The MARQUETRY4WORLD project aims to develop new digitally assisted manufacturing techniques and new added value applications for marquetry. It is also important to highlight the importance of preserving the product´s heritage value and aesthetic for use in different sectors of luxury markets.

MAIN OBJECTIVE

Strengthen research, technological development and innovation.

Development of new manufacturing techniques, new forms of application, and new functional characteristics of marquetry that address new sectors and new market segments with demonstrated commercials arguments.

PROJECT ACTIVITIES

Preliminary studies - Development of the concept of a new marquetry product, and the definition of functional and safety requirements, with a view to its optimisation and application on different surfaces. Market surveys related to the emergence of new competing alternatives and possible requirements imposed by new application sectors are also planned.

Study of Materials, Production Conditions and Modes of Application - Definition of materials and technologies to be integrated in the manufacture of marquetry products and verification of production and application conditions. At this stage, it is intended to evaluate new materials that can be used as a basis for the application of marquetry, as well as new bonding and finishing products. Samples will be produced and tested to characterise their physical, chemical, mechanical and durability properties.

Manufacturing Approach - New digitally assisted industrial production techniques will be defined and implemented. Preliminary tests are expected to be carried out to evaluate the behaviour of wood veneers during laser cutting and pressing process. The processes of assembly of the marquetry products will also be explored and defined, as well as guidelines taking into account its application on organic and/or complex geometric surfaces.

Experimentation and Validation – Models and prototypes will be built that will be submitted to experimental campaigns, in laboratory and under real conditions, which will allow to evaluate the final performance of the new marquetry solutions. The "BIM" technology of the product will also be implemented.

Dissemination of Project Results – The promotion and dissemination of the results of project results will be done through different generalist communication channels; participation in technological fairs and scientific events; preparation of technical data sheets, catalogues, brochures, flyers, roll-ups; publication and presentation of scientific articles in congresses or symposiums and seminars.

EXPECTED RESULTS

• New concept of marquetry production based on updated scientific and technological knowledge;
• New marquetry products, numerically and experimentally accessed with regard to physical, mechanical, chemical and environmental performance, with a view to their application in different sectors;
• Marquetry solutions adapted for application on unconventional bases and irregular surfaces, making their use feasible for complex geometry applications;
• New lines of geometric and organic patterns and new graphic combinations that will increase the value of new products;
• Increased efficiency in the manufacturing and assembly processes and reduction of waste associated with the manufacturing process.