architecture + design + fabrication portfolio - Christine Khouri Sader

christine khouri sader architecture + design + fabrication portfolio

architecture | design | fabrication

a synergetic design approach to architectural systems

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table of contents |

HydroCeramics

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Robotic Ruled CeilingScape

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MycoConnections Robotic Winding

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Polyhedral Structural Joint

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Ruko

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Depository of Knowledge

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a hybrid manufacturing workflow

ruled surfaces robotic hot wire cutting ceiling prototype

mycelium integrated carbon fiber fabrication

mono-material connection fabrication

housing for digital nomads

an exploration of physical and virtual library

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academic | upenn | hydroceramics

HydroCeramics Hybrid manufacturing workflow

Description: A feedback integrated workflow for hybrid processing through slip casting and robotic additive manufacturing Instructors: Robert Stuart-Smith, Nathan King, Billie Faircloth and Jeffrey Anderson Co-Instructors: David Forero Critics: Martin Bechthold, Jenny Sabin, Shelby Doyle, Masoud Akbarzadeh and Dorit Aviv Location: Philadelphia, PA Institution: University of Pennsylvania MSD-RAS Date: 2022 Collaboration: Ryan Liao and Sophia O’Neill Clay-based ceramics have properties that have enabled numerous traditional and innovative material processes. An investigation of clay-based production settings inspired the combination of craft-based and industrial methods using feedback-enabled robotic processes. This research explores a hybrid craft-based and industrial production process using a semi-autonomous workflow to create a bespoke ceramic assemblage. The workflow pairs slip casting with robotic additive manufacturing and is demonstrated through experiments by embedding slip cast components into robotically deposited clay using real-time depth sensing. A customizable sand formwork enables low waste variability in the hybrid-production process and allows for the combination of slip cast geometries within 3d printed clay elements. The research informs the field of architectural ceramics by proposing a hybrid-production workflow for a multi-step process of clay deposition using an adaptive, reusable formwork that responds to parts produced using other production processes.

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The manufacturing workflow of the real-time in-the-loop production of an embedded slip cast component utilizing an adaptive formwork

ROBOTIC RULED CEILINGSCAPE 1.1

academic | upenn | hydroceramics

To better understand AM on adaptive formworks, we tested clay deposition on sand. Early tests proved our assumption that sand is an adequate material to be used as formwork during clay deposition. Furthermore, we found that sand can also be used as removable material that allows the clay to dry evenly from multiple directions.

Used as a medium that can adjust itself and form to any external geometry placed atop, sand enabled us to explore variable formworks for clay deposition. Introducing sand into our project allowed for increased geometric variability of robotically extruded clay as well as an opportunity for incorporating a real-time feedback loop process. As a material that adpats to pressure, a sand solidficiation process through sodium thiosulfate was introduced to allow for deposition without topology changes.

Robotic AM process with a custom deposited sand base. At 0.25” height from the base, 0.25” spacing between contours, and 7.3 mm (about 0.29”) extruder nozzle, the clay forms to the sand while maintaining its extruded shape.

Photo of the experiment outcome toolpath pipe for clay extrusion prediction

toolpath computed from contours of the mesh scan locations of openings that create the sand formations box and formations 3D mesh scan

sand box with sand formations

Robotic clay deposition workflow

Double printing experiments with sand placement in center where negative space would eventually form.

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Individual parts of a conformal sand formwork print process.

hybrid manufacturing | feedback loop | robotic deposition

For robotic clay deposition, we used a WASP Liquid deposition modeling extruder as the end effector of a 6-axis ABB IRB4600 robot with an external axis. The end effector holds earthenware clay, in a cylinder canister, that is mixed using a deairing pug-mill.

Initially, our toolpath generation process consisted of a custom grasshopper script that would contour the scanned mesh, of the sand adaptive formwork, in a specific direction. This allowed us to understand clay deposition material effects when running contoured toolpaths. Furthermore, we found that 0.25” spacing between each contour is the optimal distance for binding clay prints. The contouring process allowed the robotic tool to follow silhouettes of sand formations while depositing in 3 axes and allowed for exploration of the steps of the workflow for a conformal print.

The robot programmed toolpath is dry run multiple times in various heights to verify location precision and avoid collision with the sandbox and sand formations. Through multiple experiments we found that a 0.25” tolerance from the robotic tools TCP to the sand formations in the z-axis is the most optimal height for deposition, with a speed that ranges from 15-20 mm/s depending on the robot’s path. When the robot moves parallel to the formed sand in an uphill direction, slower speeds (15 mm/s) have been shown to allow greater amounts of deposition and an optimal amount of clay build-up. When moving parallel to formed sand in a downhill direction, higher speeds (20mm/s) allowed for an optimal amount of clay deposition and avoided clay sliding through and ahead of the toolpath.

ABB IRB4600 Robotic arm AM process with a custom deposited sand base

Robotic clay deposition toolpath with 0.25” height tolerance for printing layer one on an adaptive formwork.

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academic | upenn | hydroceramics

Integrating real-time feedback in a mass-customization workflow for bespoke ceramic assemblies required two robotic end effectors. We designed a custom sand deposition end effector for the ABB IRB4600 6-axis industrial robot with an external axis that created opportunities for automating the fabrication process of the hybrid manufacturing system. The custom end effector has a depth sensing tool attachment which creates a sensor feedback loop workflow.

Sand deposition custom end effector with an intel D435 real-sense depth camera utilized for the feedback workflow. Tooling list: 1. Depth Camera Realsense D435; 2. Sand funnel; 3. Servo motor (MG995 12V); 4. Vibrating motor (N20 8000RPM 3V); 5. I/O to IRC5 robot controller; 6.

RealSense USB C to Computer Sand deposition over time

Sand deposition distance over velocity

The custom tool deposits sand in a preplanned manner, which is visualized in a 3D CAD simulation. Once deposited, the sand accumulates and is used as our clay printing formwork. The tool is equipped with a valving nozzle, controlled in real-time by an Arduino UNO board, a vibrating motor attachment, and a circuit board. The sand deposition rate is determined by the robot’s digital input/output modules - sending high and low signals to the Arduino UNO board, turning the nozzle on and off.

Continuous sand deposition depends on distance over velocity percentages ranging from 5% to 100% of 100mm/s, bigger sand dune formations correlating with slower speeds.

To avoid collision with the slip casts and sand, the robotic tool center point (TCP) needed to move according to the silhouettes of the shapes printed on. This required close attention to TCP calibration in relation to geometries. Attaching an Intel RealSenseTM D435 depth sensing camera to the sand deposition end effector, provided a real-time scan of the printable topology. The scan generated a 3D mesh into Rhino space, which we used to create a custom grasshopper script.

To test sand deposition, we produced a collection of computational and physical experiments utilizing our end effector.

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hybrid manufacturing | feedback loop | robotic deposition

Sand deposition tool path

Computational predicted sand formations

Sand deposition 3D real-sense depth camera scan

Point interval deposition

Continous deposition

Left: Sand deposition experiment and code representing toolpath at point intervals complementing slip cast geometry. It was programmed to turn the nozzle on and off at every plane target, at every point.

Right: Continuous sand deposition experiment and code representing toolpath deposition complementing slip cast geometry. The toolpath is designed to move to the first plane target, turn on the nozzle where it begins deposition, move according to the toolpath and reach the last plane target of the line where it turns the nozzle off.

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academic | upenn | hydroceramics

The multi-step process includes fabricating slip-cast components, creating an adaptive formwork, and embedding the slip cast components into robotically deposited clay. The slip-casts are embedded within the center of each fabricated element, sandwiched between additive manufactured clay layers.

For the proof-of-concept prototype, we developed two slip casts geometry types including a Yshaped component and a single-sided curved component which are manufactured using a two-part plaster mold. Once fired, the components can be aggregated in various configurations to form a continuous system.

Initial deposition tests on slip cast geometries, resulted in collisions and the destruction of the embedded geometries; Therefore utilizing the 7 degrees of freedom that the robot offered..

Initial experiments of printing on slip casting components revealed our main challenge to be a collision of the robotic tool with the slip cast components; caused by inaccurate tolerances with the TCP and the extruder tool nozzle, the collisions destroyed the slip casts.

We utilized the 7 degrees of freedom that the ABB IRB4600 Track robot offered as a solution.

The multiple axes allowed printing in relation to the directions perpendicular to the embedded geometry.

The robotic end effector direction is determined by the input of target planes generated by a custom algorithmic toolpath. These planes consist of directional data that translates to robotic movement in space. To adhere to and not collide with the irregular topologies the robot extrudes clay on, the target planes must be oriented perpendicular to these topologies.

A custom grasshopper script generates and simulates a robotic toolpath that reorients existing target planes perpendicular to specific points on the 3D scanned mesh; this resolves the robots’ collision with the slip cast component.

To conclude testing, we experimented embedding multiple slip cast components into a continuous clay print. The embedding process of three slip cast clay components is a successful larger scale proof of concept element demonstrating the combination of the craft-based and industrial process through our proposed workflow. However, due to its size, the piece had issues with drying and transportation to the kiln.

Robotic real-time deposition showing the printing process with additional sand support around the slip cast for gradual deposition. Before sand formwork is added, slip cast is coated with fresh slip to enhance binding with layer 1.

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hybrid manufacturing | feedback loop | robotic deposition

Multiple experiements of embedding process of one slip cast vs. two slip cast components vs. 3 slip cast component aggregations.

Sectional diagram of the intended desired configuration utilizing the robot’s various degrees of freedom to solve for slip cast geometry collisions, through reorientation of planes to mesh perpendicular direction and through the second layer of sand formwork for gradual printing.

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academic | upenn | hydroceramics

The physical prototypical design represents the success of combining two anufacturing processes represented by embedded slip casts into robotically deposited clay

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hybrid manufacturing | feedback loop | robotic deposition

Demonstrating successful integration of a hybrid-production workflow, this research combined mass-produced slip-cast components together with customized additive manufactured clay-based fabrication processes and showed their application within a prototypical ceramic assemblage. In the process of embedding slip cast components into robotically deposited clay elements, this research leveraged novel processes that combine clay deposition toolpathing with data provided by depth sensing of in-situ components, detecting variation in existing geometries and responding to imprecise adaptive formwork in real-time. The developed workflow utilized a 7-axis industrial robotic work cell for the automation of formwork, material deposition, and reality capture of the hybrid component in a way that demonstrates a combination of craft-based and industrial production strategies.

academic | upenn | robotic ruled ceilingscape

Robotic Ruled CeilingScape

Description: Robotic Hot Wire Fabrication of ruled geometries Instructors: Andrew Saunders Co-Instructors: Matthew White and Riley Studebaker Critics: Robert Stuart-Smith, M. Casey Rehm, Hyojin Kwon, Kyriaki Goti, Scott Erdy, Laia Mogas-Soldevila, Shavari Mhatre, Elena Mangigian, Drew Kmetz, Winka Dubbledam, Frederick Steiner Location: Philadelphia, PA Institution: University of Pennsylvania MSD-RAS Date: 2021 Collaboration: Ryan Liao and Vicny Yang The robotically fabricated ceilingscape is an immersive experience that is an integral part of the research and studies produced on Gabos and Pfvesners sculptures. In this project, a radical effort of constructing the ceiling from the original rails set out to create a framework that transgressed the normal boundaries of thinking and fabrication.

The ceiling proposal and the process the project has enveloped aspires for new and experimental organizations and relationships in architecture. It seizes to embellish intimate moments that a user can experience with an autonomous fabricated topology. The process of this ceiling proposal managed to move through stages of cognitive thinking, machine intelligence and robotic fabrication, this intricate process of development can be applied in multiple scales.

Complexity in the organization of the module and the micro relief tooling relationships, actualised the vision of machine intelligence, human cognitive thinking and the original sculptures. The ceiling proposal aims to represent curated moments that capture and create a truly immersive experience for users in the gallery.

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academic | upenn | robotic ruled ceilingscape

Naum Gabo was an influential sculptor and key figure in Russia’s post-revolution avant-garde. His sculptures combined geometric abstraction with a dynamic organization of form. One of the main discoveries in his works is the use of void as an element of sculptures.

The ruled surface is essentially a set of points swept by a moving line.

Therefore, The idea of ruled surfaces being generated via straight lines from point to point is a natural fit for the Robotic hot wire cutter. The explorations consisted of research and analysis of Gabo’s Torsion variation Number 3 made in 1963. It was constructed using two warped metal frames. One emulated, mirrored and displaced perpendicular to the other. The edges of the frames act as the rails of the sculpture.

Naum Gabo Torsion variation 3 original Images and constructed drawings

The transposition process of the reconstruction of the sculpture, the surfaces that were generated through the rails were key to transforming the “linear”hypar sculpture into a stereotomic volume. Where rails of the main sculpture were extending out and intersecting the foam block is how we started to define our limits. The proposed sculpture highlights a symbiotic relationship between the original form, it’s features and its negative spatial qualities.

The transposition process highlighted a figure ground relationship between the original sculpture and the proposed sculpture. Two rails from the original sculpture were emulated and allowed the transposition of surface to volume. This constructed one half of the volumetric sculpture. The other half of the sculpture is a mirrored imitation of it, following a similar system that Gabo used in Torsion variation 3.

Naum Gabo Reocnstructed Sculpture drawings and Renders exploring tooling and it’s light effects

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ruled surfaces | neural networks | robotic hot wire cutting

Deep learning can be considered as a part of a broader family of machine learning methods that are based on the artificial neural networks with representation learning. The model we used in this studio is convolutional neural networks, abbreviated as CNN. The reconstructed sculptures explore the latent space and transpose into the CNN input dataset through complex collages of their features. An exploration of the collages revealed explicit tooling and geometry similarily that were transversed into the base elements and signature moves of the CNNs. GANs managed to derive the rulings, metamorphose the geometries into a complex generated constitution. The making of the CNN results allowed for the exploration of new geometries and toolings while accentuating the original rails and rulings, from the original proposed sculptures.

The rails of the proposed individual sculpture were emulated, mirrored and displaced across the CNN 2D result. This system recognized and emphasized the direct relationship of the rails and rulings across the project. During the emulation process, because of the three dimensionality of the original and proposed rails, the ceiling signature module reflected the sculptures in plan and in section. Using the original rails allowed for a symbiotic connection throughout the project however it also allowed for the exploration of new geometries with the same rails. This allowed for a variation of signature moves and pieces that contrast with the original sculptures. It also allowed for the implementation of a similar design language forming the ceilingscape.

Ceiling signature module

CNN explorations and selected result used for ceiling signature module

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academic | upenn | robotic ruled ceilingscape

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d a

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Robotic Hot wire Choreography diagram

Robotic Hot wire Choreography documentation

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ruled surfaces | neural networks | robotic hot wire cutting

Ceiling signature module

The micro relief tooling allowed for the play of light and shadows.The tooling created transmits a symbiotic and a soothing relationship between the user and the ceiling. It allows for the networked links and nodes of the rails and ruled surfaces to create a dynamic stereotomic space of visualization. Light is the major element in the experience, it is used to create an immersive environment that plays with the sacred through the tooling while juxtaposing the profane and oblique edges created through the geometries.

The signature module and the overall ceiling define an experimental form of fabrication. The use of the industrial robot for fabrications often means constant experimental tests, therefore allowing the planning of multiple choreographies that intersect together to create the fabricated pieces. The robotic wire cutting choreography consisted of the hot wire moving across a block of foam, along a set of points in between the two set rails that create the desired ruling through the manipulation and the rotation of the hot wire TCP through the visose planes.

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academic | upenn | robotic ruled ceilingscape

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ruled surfaces | neural networks | robotic hot wire cutting

The Ruled CeilingScape is an immersive experience that is an integral part of the research and studies produced on Gabos sculpture. In this project, a radical effort of constructing the ceiling from the original rails set out to create a framework that transgressed the normal boundaries of thinking and fabrication.

The ceiling proposal and the process the project has enveloped aspires for new and experimental organizations and relationships in architecture. It seizes to embellish intimate moments that a user can experience with an autonomous fabricated topology. The process of this ceiling proposal managed to move through stages of cognitive thinking, machine intelligence and robotic fabrication, this intricate process of development can be applied in multiple scales.

Complexity in the organization of the module and the micro relief tooling relationships, actualised the vision of machine intelligence, human cognitive thinking and the original sculptures. The ceiling proposal aims to represent curated moments that capture and create a truly immersive experience for users in the gallery.

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academic | upenn | mycoconnections robotic winding

MycoConnections Robotic Winding

Description: Myco Tetris explores the relationship between tension and compression fibers and bio-materials for the design of a bio-composite component.

Instructors: Ezio Blasetti Co-Instructors: Geng Liu Critics: Robert Stuart-Smith, Masoud Akbarzadeh, Dorit Aviv, Jonas Coersmeier and Danielle Williams Location: Philadelphia, PA Institution: University of Pennsylvania MSD-RAS Date: 2021 Collaboration: Ryan Liao and Vicny Yang Mycelium-based bio-composites propose growth as part of the manufacturing method- enabling fiber connections to connect parts to whole components. As a state-of-art biomaterial, that implements compressive structural strengths and can form to any geometry, a secondary material is proposed to act as a scaffold for the growing biomaterial and creates reinforcement for tensile structural strengths. Carbon fiber is introduced as the supporting material to create a base for mycelium growth and is also utilized as it poses opportunities for the automation of batch production of components, using industrial robotic processes. This project presents a novel integration of multi-material fabrication processes to create mycelium composite structures.

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academic | upenn | mycoconnections robotic winding

An understanding of the material properties of mycelium (MYC) as a biomaterial and carbon fiber (CF) was vital in the design of a multi-step process that creates the biocomposite structure.

The analysis of the process of cultivation and creation of the MYC and CF components allowed for the development of a workflow that is time-dependent. The multi-step process required an analysis of each of the materials processes and the implementation of a production workflow. As a material that can grow and form to any geometry, the inclusion of the CF component created a scaffold for the mycelium to grow within, research and advances in different possible scaffolds, inspired the use of carbon fiber as a potential material integration. Advances in mycelium also introduce its compressive structural strengths and pose opportunities for a combination of materials to create architectural building systems.

CF posed itself as a great material integration for structural reinforcement as a tension structural strength material for a building component.

Carbon fiber outer edge conditions allowed for unique interlocking connections

Initial carbon fiber Polyomnio prototypes

Mathematical combinations of neighbor relationships were explored for the developement of individual components units to a whole building system.

Polyomnios are explored as one example of the process and component building system. An exploration of weaving patterns and interlocking ideas allow the material carbon fiber to eliminate the usage of other sources of connection.

This concept would apply to all the polyomnio shapes and components used in the project.

As the exploration for the interlocking connections continued, the elimination of the “outer edge” of the weave allowed for another level of detail and interlocking.

This allowed for pieces to seamlessly connect together and also allowed for stronger modules as we combined them.

The benefit of this interlocking methodology also strengthens the combined units as two pieces interlock, specifically when two directions of carbon fiber winding was combined.

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biomaterial | carbon fiber composites | robotic winding

Potential and initial concepts of the different directions of carbon fiber winding created oppourtunities for mono-material connections to be integrated and to work with. The carbon fiber polyomnio, attached to another carbon fiber polyomnio winding in an opposite direction, created pockets that can become potentially integrate the mycelium biomaterial.

Carbon fiber as a material that can resist tension forces, is used as reinforcement for a material that works in compression. A material in compression achieves full strength for the fabrication of the building component. A material in compression could be used as a cast material or as a mortar for the bundled columns like connections between different polyomnio pieces.

Robotic winding work cell to automate CF production and interlocking polyomino connections experimentation.

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academic | upenn | mycoconnections robotic winding

Initial mycelium growth process

Mycellium intgeration to carbon fiber

Mycellium as a state of the art bio-material and a resultant of the fungal network that grows and can be utilized as part of the manufacturing process

Final detail outcome of mycellium interactions with the carbon fiber

Mycellium is a material that molded to the carbon fiber polyomnios scaffoleds and allowed for many possibilities of component aggregations. The process of Mycelium preparation included sanitization of space and tools, mixture of flour and water with hemp substrate and fungi spores, shaking the mixture of ingredients and sealing the bag for 5 days for cultivation.

5 days into the cultivation process, and after the CF component is prepped for integration, by baking in an industrial oven, mycelium is ready for integration. Through experimentation, the use of an acrylic box allowed for a better visualization of the mixture of the materials. Cultivated MYC is broken down again, and displaced into the CF interlocking components, where it is sealed in a bigger box for a humid environment, which the biomaterial thrives in.

Pipe and microcontroller system that measures mositure levels of mycellium and uses a liquid pump motor when needed

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biomaterial | carbon fiber composites | robotic winding

10 days into the production process, MYC is growing in the integrated CF and is ready for re-baking to stop the growth; this step of the process is optional and can be altered to allow growth to continue.

Adafruit microcontrolllers were synthetized as a way to research a connection between systematic networks with the organic fungal networks.

The adafruit network system measures water level moisture of the mycelium growth, and based on the water level, alters the liquid pump time and amount increments and adds water for the growth of the mycelium.

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academic | upenn | mycoconnections robotic winding

A polyomnio network investigation of neighbor relationships was studied through the parameters of the interlocking pieces and the multi directional winding relationships.

A python code that evaluates neighbors, polyomnio connections and face to face relationship was used to develop our project on site using a mesh.

The python grasshopper script ran as a trigger that contionusly was able to grow given that there were possibilities to grow without being too far from the mesh using as a parameter in the code A grasshopper script was also developed to divide the output polyomnios into multi directional winding blocks and as well as a script to pick up pieces that are in shadow to become the ones that allow for the mycellium material integration. Mycellium is a material that grows in dark, liu of light and begins to stops maturing when exposed to light.

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biomaterial | carbon fiber composites | robotic winding

The project was situated next to the Fairmount Waterworks in Philadelphia. Because of the historic importance and sustainable impact of this site, the project was the ideal fit for the location.

Massing and volumes that highlight important steps of sustainabilty in the past were used as voids and supports for a topology optimization millipede grasshopper plugin produced mesh. The millipede outcome mesh was then implemented to the python and grasshopper scripts to allow for the polyomnios to aggregate and begin to form the visualized networks.

The projects hgihlight became about time, and its growth, through material integration, through polyomnio aggregation and through human interaction.

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academic | upenn | mycoconnections robotic winding

PHASE 1

As an exploration of a time-based material dependent on growth, and through aggregation, the project posed an opportunity of being human-interactive on a site, creating phases of the project through its growth, either

by CF component aggregation or by the MYC integrated CF component aggregation.

The following plans show a representation of a possible outcome of the massing through the phases. Phase 1 is the beginning stage and is situated on site, phase 2 and 3 become a potential outcome as they are dependant on the human interaction and what the user desires in terms of a polyomnio placement for aggreagtion.

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

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Potential future opportunities that this research project poses, is advanced research on the structural potentials of the reinforced mycelium; an implementation of a structural test through physical and digital means can advance the industrial use of the biocomposite material.

biomaterial | carbon fiber composites | robotic winding

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academic | upenn | polyhedral structural joint

Polyhedral Structural Joint

Description: Timber material computation design and fabrciation based on a structrual force diagram and convex cells Instructors: Masoud Azkbarzadeh Critics: Richard Farley, Mathias Bernhard and Andrew Wit Location: Philadelphia, PA Institution: University of Pennsylvania MSD-RAS Date: 2021 Collaboration: Joonhyuk Yun This project explores structural equilibrium as a form finding methodology. A comprehensive introduction to novel geometric methods of structural design based on 2D and 3D graphical statics and constructed drawings allowed for the development of a general understanding of the geometric representation of their internal and external equilibrium forces. This also allowed for designing material tectonics based on the flow of forces in a system. Considering both force directionality and material methods are significant in desiging an efficient and innovative architectural structure.

Structural wood and computational methods were used for the detail design of joinery and assembly process of spatial node geometry. CNC 3 Axis miling was used for the fabrication techniques to construct the complex geometry of the structure.

A major focus in the design was to eliminate the division of, the node and the bar elements , and as well as learn from historic timber joinery methods and implement similar interlocking notions. The elimination of the division of the node and the bar allowed for the creation of a powerful timber structural joint and allowed for an efficient design, eliminating the use of hardware.

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academic | upenn | polyhedral structural joint

An exploration of the structural nodal construction using the polyhedral force diagram internal forces An investigation of elements in compression as a solution to connect and interlock with substractive methodologies Construction using flat individual elements that interwine seamlessly together to create one nodal to bar coneection

Through the analysis of the polyhedral force diagram in equilibrium, the edges of the forces acting in different directions were extracted and used for the node exploration as a means of a balanced equilibrium joint.

From the edges of the node, faces were constructed to build up the nodal connections by offsetting the edges.

Finally, a repositioning of the elements inward to the center allowed for the interlocking of individual pieces to one nodal joint.

The elongation of the edge pieces of individual elements allowed for pieces to be

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topological structural relationships | mono-material connections | timber joints

The design of the indivudal elements created opportunities that allowed for a unique interlocking system that avoided the use of any hardware and attachment tools.

The assembly process of the individual elements to a node created a strict need for a chronological assembly process so pieces can lock and be able to withhold strong compression forces.

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academic | upenn | polyhedral structural joint

The integral notion of the design was to create a topological relationship between individual elements to one node and also begin to integrate the polyhedral structural system used between two polyhedral nodes. The seamless connection from node to bar allowed for different joints to be able to connect symbiotically on multiple axes.

In terms of the fabrication of the node, the 3 Axis CNC milling router is used for Node fabrication. Files are set up for CNC showing fully cut through elements and topographical surfaces as well for seamless interlocking connections with friction resistant forces. The Bandsaw was used to eliminate tabs from the CNC process and clean up elements, also used for concave angles needed for interlocking connections that were not achieved by the CNC. 6 individual elements make up one node and the Interlocking concept eliminates the need of any external elements like screws, nails or dowels and eliminates the need of glue

3D printed tests and iterations

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topological structural relationships | mono-material connections | timber joints

CNC fabricated two polyhedral nodes

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academic | upenn | polyhedral structural joint

The topological relationship was investigated and applied to a funicular shell design through a code developed to identify edges, faces and vertices from eachother.

By extracting the edges of the potential shell conceptual designs, the formation parameters of the node and the joint design was applied to all the polyhedral force diagrams.

The topolgy optimzation and structural plugin that was explored for the use of the shell was PolyFrame developed by Polyhedral Structural Lab. Polyframe was able to identify and develop structures that derive from a balanced force diagram. The structure would always exist in equilibrium.

Polyframe shell and bridge iterations

Polyframe Input

Planar Surfaces transposition into cells

Polyframe Output: showing perpendicular to the faces of the

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forces and the magnitude of the force

topological structural relationships | mono-material connections | timber joints

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academic | fau | ruko

Ruko Housing for Digital Nomads

Description: Ruko, HOUSING FOR DIGITAL NOMADS OF SINGAPORE IN 2030 Instructors: Jean Martin Caldieron Location: Singapore, Business district Institution: Florida Atlantic University Date: 2020 RUKO, Housing for Digital Nomads of 2030 in Singapore, is a hybrid tower that explores the concept of an Asian neighborhood of shop houses and their programmatic uses and social experiences in a high rise.

The Design intent of this project is to create a socio-spatial relationship between digital nomads in the future of Singapore. It is achieved by the exploration of the Asian shophouse typology and how it integrates into a hybrid tower typology.

As a precedent for RUKO, the exploration of the shophouse, it’s programmatic uses of living, working and playing has challenged the future of architecture for digital nomads. The project has developed by the notion of the sequential experiences of program, space and society that a traditional shophouse would offer.

Prefabricated modular forms are used to achieve the spatial experiences and programmatic uses. A collection of the prefabricated forms for residential units and other programs would make up a “neighborhood.” This project has allowed for the exploration of ,not only a shophouse, but also an exploration of what a neighbhood in the future will look like.

The Hybrid tower typology mixed with the shophouse typology has allowed for an innovative design that integrates and interconnects architecture, people, nature and the heritage of Singapore.

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UNI.XYZ EDITTOR’S CHOICE

NOMAD HOUSE INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION

academic | fau | ruko

REIMAGINING NOMAD LIVING

by

APPLYING THE TRADITIONAL SINGAPOREAN SHOPHOUSES TO THE HIGHRISE TYPOLOGY

APPLYING THE SHOPHOUSE TYPOLOGY TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

APPLYING THE SHOPHOUSE TYPOLOGY TO THE TOWERS ALLOWING AIR AND NATURE TO SEAP THROUGH AND ALSO CREATING A DYNAMIC RELATIONSHIP OF ONE NEIGHBOURHOOD TO ANOTHER USING THE NEGATIVE SPACE OF THE FLOOR PLATES TO CREATE THE VOLUME OF THE NEIGHBOURHOODS CARVING OUT TO CREATE PROGRAMMATIC SPACES

IDEAS DERIVED FROM SHOPHOUSES Order in disorder Spatial Segmentation Bringing nature in Creating inner streets Symbiotic relationships

“NEIGHBOURHOOD” TOWER

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TO

4 NEIGHBOURHOODS = 1 “COMMUNITY”

AGRICULTURE AND VERTICAL FARMING

Sequential experiences - Public to Private Creating a network Modular

live | work | play | housing for digital nomads

Live Work Play Nature SHOPHOUSES Identity Diversity Heritage Culture Inspired by past concept plans of the country of singapore

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academic | fau | ruko

SITE PLAN

40TH FLOOR

32ND FLOOR

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live | work | play | housing for digital nomads

NEIGHBOURHOOD

CIRCULATION

MASSING

(WORK AND PLAY)

UNITS (LIVE)

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academic | fau | ruko

THE MODULAR PREFABRICATED DESIGN ALLOWS FOR THE CREATION OF DIFFERENT ZONES FOR EACH FUNCTION/PROGRAM THIS ALLOWS FOR A SEQUENTIAL EXPERIENCE OF CIRCULATING AND INTERACTING WITH PEOPLE AND NATURE FROM PUBLIC SPACES TO PRIVATE ONES. THIS NOTION IS EXPLORED IN UNIT SCALE AND “NEIGHBOURHOOD SCALE” The units also allow for a level of customization similar to the “5 foot way” introduced in shophophouses. It allows an individual to add additional rooms or closets where it is sufficient.

UNIT SECTIONS

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live | work | play | housing for digital nomads

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academic | fau | depository of knowledge

Depository of Knowledge

Description: Miami Community Library inspired by the Library of Babel Instructors: John Sandell Location: Miami, Florida Institution: Florida Atlantic University Date: 2019 The program for the new digital library in Downtown Miami is an exploration of the typology of a library and what it consists of. The program explores ideas of what a library should do and the experiences that an individual might encounter. The Depository of Knowledge investigates and highlights different forms of learning and exploring. The program of the building highlights the experience of the building, inspired by the library of Babel, an individual has to explore and look for their book while fully being a part of the building. Just as how the individual becomes a part of the experience of the building, an individual is able to alter the building and alter the experience of others. This was achieved by tracks on all floors with book stacks that can slide in some directions.

The new library’s goal is to highlight the interlocking and the interlacing of the virtual forms of knowledge with the physical forms of knowledge, also achieved by VR experiences and mechanical book stacks on tracks .

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Depository of knowledge allowed for the juxtaposition of the concept of time. The project analyses and heighlights experiences of interweaving the past, the present and the future forms of knowledge.

The Library of babel inspired major decisions in the new library. Studying the text allowed for the project to interact with and be a part of a bigger issue in our world.

The text inspired the act of highlighting the “old” ways of gaining knowledge and experience in the project. This was inspired by the juxtaposition of endangered languages with languages that are thriving in our era, because of the growth of the melting pot , also known as globalization.

The transposition process of the libray of Babel reading to the architectural spatial studies involved an idea of an endless path, the path to knowledge. The project called for physical digital forms of connection with vritual vs physical forms of knowledge. Inspired by the book and

by Claude Parents oblique architectural studies, the project was developed as a continous circulatory experience with the focus of highlighting the phjysical books as the center of the design, as our inpiration to the future.

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physical and virtual knowledge | interweaving | library

The ground floor allowed for a form of interaction to engage the community of miami with the library. With an open floor plan, the library engaged people to enter and essentially look up to see the layers of floors interlacing and interweaving to highlight this relationship of “past”, “present” and future

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academic | fau | depository of knowledge STUDY OF SPATIAL QUALITIES OF THE BUILDING AND TREATING THE CORE AS A MEANS OF INTERACTION.

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physical and virtual knowledge | interweaving | library

150’-0” ROOF LEVEL 07 60 00 FLASHING AND SHEET METAL 07 27 00 ABOVE GRADE VAPOR RETARDER 07 25 00 WEATHER BARRIERS 07 22 00 ROOF AND DECK INSULATION 03 31 00 STRUCTURAL CONCRETE 05 31 23 STEEL ROOF METAL DECKING 06 17 00 ENGINEERED METAL FRAMING SYSTEM 05 16 33 BRIDGING 03 30 00 CAST-IN-PLACE CONCRETE 07 21 13 RIGID INSULATION 03 48 33 PRECAST PRE-FRAMED CONCRETE PANELS AIR CAVITY 09 05 61.13 MOISTURE VAPOR EMISSION CONTROL

23 00 00 HVAC

112’-0” SIXTH LEVEL

03 30 00 CAST-IN-PLACE CONCRETE 07 21 13 RIGID INSULATION 03 48 33 PRECAST PRE-FRAMED CONCRETE PANELS 09 05 61.13 MOISTURE VAPOR EMISSION CONTROL AIR CAVITY

03 15 19 CAST-IN CONCRETE ANCHORS 03 31 00 STRUCTURAL CONCRETE 05 31 13 STEEL FLOOR METAL DECKING 05 41 00 STRUCTURAL METAL STUD FRAMING 06 16 36 WOOD PANEL PRODUCT SHEATHING 03 35 43 POLISHED CONCRETE FINISHING

76’-0” FIFTH LEVEL

09 22 16 NON-STRUCTURAL METAL STUD FRAMING 03 35 43 POLISHED CONCRETE FINISHING 06 11 01 WOOD FRAMING PLATE

08 51 23 STEEL WINDOWS 08 12 19 STAINLESS-STEEL FRAME 03 31 00 STRUCTURAL CONCRETE

05 31 13 STEEL FLOOR METAL DECKING 05 41 00 STRUCTURAL METAL STUD FRAMING 03 35 43 POLISHED CONCRETE FINISHING

48’-0” FOURTH LEVEL

0’-0” GROUND LEVEL

03 35 00 CONCRETE FLOOR 07 26 00 VAPOR RETARDER 07 21 00 THERMAL INSULATION SAND GRAVEL EARTH

61 WALL SECTION DETAIL