CitA BIM Gathering 2021, September 21st – 23rd 2021
BIM-based parametric adaptive design of kinetic shell facades in buildings Ibrahim Motawa1** and Khaled Habach2 1
Belfast School of Architecture and Built Environment, Ulster University, Belfast, UK 2
Department of Architecture, Strathclyde University, Glasgow, UK E-mail: 1i.motawa@ulster.ac.uk , 2khaled.habach@strath.ac.uk **
(corresponding author)
Abstract - Design processes need to consider building adaptation to the changing conditions of usage, environmental changes, and the changes in users behaviour. Technological advancements have allowed to develop and access distinct approaches in design, where interactive physical mechanisms can be built that respond to their environmental and surrounding conditions. This paper investigates the relationship between the technological advancement in kinetic shell structures over time, examines different kinds of adaptive kinetic shells, highlights the importance and advantages of these structures, and proposes a BIM-based parametric adaptive design for multi-functional kinetic shell facades. The paper proposes a parametric workflow to test adaptive kinetic façades for curvilinear buildings to enhance the sustainable performance of buildings by reducing solar radiation intake based on the location of the building and the time of the day. This workflow utilises energy simulation of an architectural structure using kinetic façade system to optimise the best solution of daylighting adequacy and thermal performance. The workflow was validated by conducting a case study. The study concluded that the developed parametric workflow can enhance the efficiency of architectural buildings on multiple sustainable and financial aspects. The study also approved the advantages of adaptive kinetic shell structure in multiple locations and under different environmental conditions. Keywords - BIM, adaptive design, kinetic shell facades
I INTRODUCTION Adaptive architecture involves a range of design fields from designs for media facades to eco buildings, dorm responsive art installations to stage design and from artificial intelligence to ubiquitous computing [1]. When applying adaptive architecture, the design structure, behaviour or resources can be changed according to a programmatic demand by the designer. Few existing buildings around the world (e.g. bionic tower, Dubai city tower, Illinois tower, etc.) have the ability to dynamically move as a whole structure or partially rotate. In this regard, Kinetic architecture is a design approach in contemporary architecture which explores the physical transformation of a building with the objective to redefine traditional applications of motion through technological innovation. The use of robotics, mechanics and electronics is essential to this new approach. The concept of “Kinetic Architecture” has changed architectural design to be more transformable, dynamic, and interactive to
achieve many design objectives including environmental goals, social interaction, and sense of place [2]. This paper will focus on the adaptive design in the kinetic (dynamic) shell façade systems. Building façades are considered to be the most important protection structure from the external environment; such as sun glare and direct heat gain. The advancement of Building façade systems helps in changing the traditional static design of façades as a cover only to play a more active role; such as integrating photovoltaic cells to help generate energy than just save energy [3]. An efficient building envelope enhances daylight uniformity and improves energy performance of the building. However, designing facades is a challenging task for architects when considering multiple objectives; e.g. to reduce energy consumption and improve the occupant’s health [4]. This paper introduces a BIM-based parametric workflow to design an adaptive kinetic façade suitable for curvilinear buildings. The methodology considers various building and environmental factors
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