STUDIO AIR 2018, SEMESTER 1, MATT #12 JESSIE CHAN | 836310
INTRODUCTION I am Jessie Chan, currently pursuing a Bachelor degree in Environments (majoring in Architecture) at University of Melbourne. I undertook Studio Earth and Water in second year of my degree, which provided me with the opportunity to interact with parametric modelling through the use of Rhinoceros. The basis of this digital design tool has since been introduced to my architecture journey. Studio Air however, demonstrates an elevated level of engagement with digital design – computation. The process to achieve better outcomes from this course has seemed to become more challenging than what I have ever experienced. I believe it will turn out to be an stimulating and exploratory journey that inspires me as an architecture student.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS A. Conceptualization A1. Design Futuring 6
1.1 Case Study 01 - Geotube Tower
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1.2 Case Study 02 - Homefarm
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A2. Design Computation 12
2.1 Case Study 03 - Swallow’s Nest
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2.2 Case Study 04 - ICD Research Pavilion
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A3. Composition/Generation 18
3.1 Case Study 05 - Elytra Filament Pavilion 20
3.2 Case Study 06 - Digital Origami
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A4. Learning Outcomes 24 A5. Conclusion 26 A6. Appendix 28
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B. Criteria Design
C. Detail Design
B1. Research Field - Patterning
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C1. Design Concept 58
B2. Case Study 01 - Spanish Pavilion
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1.1 Site Anaylsis 60
B3. Case Study 02 - ICD Research Pavilion 201
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1.2 Design Concept 62
B4. Technique: Development 46
1.3 Design Process 66
B5. Technique: Prototypes 50
B6. Technique: Proposal 52
C3. Final Detail Design 78
B7. Learning Objectives and Outcomes
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B.8. Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches
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C2. Tectonic Elements and Prototypes
C4. Learning Objectives and Outcomes
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A1. Design Futuring
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Human takes on a significant role in shaping the places we live in, and we have realized that our living environments have undergone profound changes along with the evolution of civilizations. However, sustainability within our ecological world is accelerating towards a defuturing condition at the same time. The act of neglecting impact of environmental and social issues, for instance climate change, rising sea level, and carbon emission, in decision-making processes has led to threatening our existing ecological and biological environments. Regarding in architectural design industry, architecture is no longer merely referring to forms or functions. Significance of design has been perceived as rapidly growing, in which it is acknowledged that design is not only a product but a creative process in shaping our ecological habitat. Tony Fry argues that a new form of practice that recognizes design’s importance is needed with the goal of responding to social and ecological concerns in overcoming unsustainability the world faces [1]. As the potentials and possibilities in designing are ever-emerging, designers are encouraged to open up their imagination and be innovative in creating the impossible. With the chaging mindset in designing and with aid of technological advancement, a redirection towards future with sustainable inhabitation is feasible, wherein new design strategies that able to slow down defuturing can be pioneered.
^[1] Tony Fry, Design futuring sustainability, ethics and new practice, Berg Editorial Offices, 2009, pp.1-16
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A1.1 Case Study 01 Geotube Tower | Faulders Studio Dubai California-based architectural practice Faulders Studio proposed the iconic Geotube Tower for the city of Dubai, which makes use of sustainable materials that are not considered of architec-tural value. The concept of creating a building that evolves over time came from ongoing ex-plorations and researches on local environmental conditions of Dubai. The faรงade made out of local elements is entirely self-grown and in continuous formation rather than constructed. Sit-uated at a place close to Persian Gulf, where abundant sunlight and highest salinity for oceanic water can be found, a system which intelligently manipulates natural properties of salt is uti-lized to create the building faรงade [2]. The highly concentrated salt water is supplied to the tower through a underground pipeline that connects to the faรงade, and water is sprayed over its ex-posed mesh substructure. When the water evaporates, salt deposits crystallizes into crystal-line surface due to the high temperature air, and transform into the transparent faรงade of the tower. Although the Geotube project could only be applied in areas with certain climatic circumstances, it is a new type of concept that provides substantial inspiration for future archi-tects in matter of discovering more possibilities in sustainable design. Initial Stage (1-5 years)
Intermediate Stage (5-15 years)
Mature Stage (15-50+ years)
Fig 1: Conceptual model showing how facade of tower changes over time Source: https://www.designboom.com/architecture/faulders-studio-geotube/
^[2] Giovanna Dunmall, Architect proposes tower that uses saltwater, hot sun to grow its own skin, 2011, https://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/stories/architect-proposes-tower-that-uses-saltwater-hot-sun-to-grow
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Fig 2a, b, c: Crystallization of salf in real life Source: http://www.faulders-studio.com/GEOTUBE-TOWER
Fig 3: Geotube Tower Source: http://https://www.designboom.com/architecture/faulders-studio-geotube/
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A1.2 Case Study 02 Homefarm | Spark Singapore, 2014 The Homefarm is a conceptual design of retirement apartments, combining senior services and vertical farming facilities. This project expresses ideology of design futuring, in terms of having the objectives to step forward into a more sustainable future via proposing conceptual architectural design that would help solving existing social problems. For instance, it addresses direct concerns over the rapid aging population and food quality problems within Singaporean society. It also reveals new perspectives and opportunities in changing the existing defuturing environment with sustainable designs. The main emphasis for this project is to advocate the idea of urban farming, in which this strategy is believed to lower carbon emission and create biomass energy from agricultural waste in order to generate self-sufficient energy for the housing estate. It also intends to form a more sustainable food system within the community by means of recycling the energy released from wastes for farming. On the other hand, farming activities provides a platform for retired elderly to contribute to community and to be socially integrated again[3].
Fig 4: Conceptual model showing how facade of tower changes over time, Source: https:// www.dezeen.com/2015/11/17/home-farm-spark-model-asian-retirement-housing-communities-city-farms/
^[3] Amy Frearson, Spark designs model for Asian retirement communities that double as city farms, 2015, www.dezeen.com/2015/11/17/home-farm-spark-model-asian-retirement-housing-communities-city-farms/ 10
Fig 5: Geotube Tower Source: http://https://www.designboom.com/architecture/faulders-studio-geotube/
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A2. Design Computation
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The evolution of design computation has fostered a new way of thinking for emerging architects and designers. Computers can generate and develop ideas efficiently, and a trend in relying on digital engines can be perceived as it is effective and would not make arithmetical mistakes like human brains. With the rapid development in design-technology, parametric design tools does not only allow architects and designers to discover further potentials in designing but also provides possibilities to solve the ongoing architectural and environmental problems which was once appeared to be unchangeable. What is the difference between computerization and computation? Computerization means a method to process data and information by means of allowing digital autonomy of an electronic device; while computation in the field of architecture focuses on the communicative interactions between human and computer to assist in producing desirable and performative design outcomes. The use of form-finding design tools has allowed designers to further explore a diversity of geometry types, and these experiments can also be done fast and accurately through creating simple algorithms. Therefore, it has significantly improved the continuity and successiveness of project development. Concurrently, the rising power of computational technology has also benefited in attaining sustainability of architecture, as analytical software can be customized and is capable for optimizing climate responsive designs. Parametric design redefines the architecture practices, as it have impacted the thinking throughout design process by introducing logic of algorithm [4].
^[4] Rivka Oxman & Robert Oxman, Theories of the digital in architecture, Lodob and New York, Routledge, 2014, pp.1-10
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A2.1 Case Study 03 Swallow’s Nest | Vincent Callebaut Taichung city cultural center competition entry, Taichung 2013 Designed by architect Vincent Callebaut, the initial form of his concept is derived from simple repetition of an isosceles triangular section, and the section is extruded and rotated 80 times around elliptical path to achieve a three-dimensional MÜbius ring profile. As it spirals around the ellipse, the volumes elevates from ground plane, leaving arched openings to the central void [5]. Regarding the process of designing and experimenting with such complex geometry, digital design devices assist in form-finding and provide accurate calculations that accommodate the need of generating such design form. Although this project is never built physically, it exemplifies that the use of parametric design tools has true progression on improving the pragmatic feasibility and control over computational design, and demonstrates the intimate relationship between architectural design and technological advancement.
Responding to the eco and bio-climatic design ideologies, Callebaut also demonstrates his concerns on future changes of the physical environment of Taichung city. Energy conservation practices are incorporated into his design, for instance a system of moats in the basement level between the floors and walls is used to stabilize the building in case of earthquakes, while glass overhangs provide further protection against typhoons. The building also features photovoltaic panels, which generate energy by turning solar radiation directly into electricity, whereas computational technology is utilized also to generate optimized spatial permeability. Therefore, careful calculations are required in order to successfully achieve all these strategies, making that it is extremely effective and efficient to employ computational tools.
^[5] vincent callebaut architectures unveils swallow’s nest, https://www.designboom.com/architecture/vincent-callebaut-architectures-unveils-swallows-nest/
Fig 7: Concept of using triangular sections to create the shape of mobius ring
Fig 6: Complex layers of the building structure 14
Fig 8: Sketch of the triangle rotations to explore how the computational concept behind this project
Fig9 a,b: Conceptual photos of the Swallow’s Nest 15
A2.2 Case Study 04 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion | Achim Menges Stuttgart, Germany, 2011 Complex forms, even geometries found in nature can be scrutinized and fabricated under the power of computation. The University of Stuttgart has explored a designing approach which studies the equivalence of biological systems in architecture. This project investigates on the biological principles of a sea urchin’s plate skeleton, in which it is discovered that the geometric arrangement of their plates and joining structures can achieve high load bearing capacities when the same system is applied in architecture.
This project exemplifies an exploration of patterning and biomimicry concepts via the practice of computational design, to reconstruct geometries received from the studied data of plate skeleton. The construction technique of finger joints, which is usually used in traditional carpentry, is employed in building the structure of pavilion. Effective joinery is achieved through attaching the edges of three different plates together at the same point with application of customized wedge protrusions [6]. The application of computation design in this project reflects that parametric tools has unlimited potentials in serving as a problem solving device in architectural fabrication.
Fig 10: Fabrication tool and method Source: http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=6553
Fig 11: Edge cutting strategy designed prior to fabrication Source: http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=6553
^[6] Benjamin Busch, ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2011, Berlin, https://archinect. com/benbusch/project/icd-itke-research-pavilion-2011 16
Fig12 a,b: Photos of the Research Pavilion 2011 Source: http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=6553 17
A3. Composition/Generation
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Along with technology improvement, computation has become a critical process when it comes to designing, restructuring architectural practices by means of changing how they are implemented. According to Brady Peters, ‘the making of these custom tools takes places within the design process, and becomes integral to the design itself’ [7], acknowledging that computation alters the way designers formulate and fabricate their designs, as well as how they carry out performance tests on the project. Thus, computation has integrated significantly into design process, whereas it is capable to provide security, precision, options and information that assist in generating optimized designs. The transition from design composition to this form of digital experimentation that generates analytical feedback from the computational generated design is inevitable, in a sense that it is more prone to generate more environmentally responsive outcomes whilst attaining flexibility and feasibility in creating complex building structures.
^[7] Brady Peters and Xavier De Kestelier, Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 2013, pp. 8-13
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A3.1 Case Study 05 Elytra Filament Pavilion | Achim Menges London Researched and developed by architect Achim Menges, the Elytra Filament Pavilion showcases the integration of computational technology in designing. It comprises 40 non-identical hexagonal components that have been mechanically fabricated from transparent glass fibre and black carbon fibre. The web-like design is stimulated by the fibrous structure on forewing shells of flying beetles – named elytra and constructed using robotic production process. Rather than merely mimicking patterns on the elytra, the placements of each components are also determined by data collected via fibre optic sensors which are embedded in the canopy’s glass fibres [8]. Human movement have a habit of responsing to surrounding environments, and seek for areas with higher comfort and attraction. Thus, the robotic construction responds to information on the correlation between outdoor comfort models and visitor behavior, through reconfiguration within a set of algorithmic rules, to imitate the experience places where people have a frequent tendency to inhabit.
Fig 13 a, b: Data of outdoor comfort (Left) and Visitor inhabitation freqrequency (Right) obtained from ‘Integrated Senor System of Elytra Filament Pavilion’ Source: https://www.vam.ac.uk/exhibitions/elytra-filament-pavilion
^[8] ArchDaily, Elytra Filament Pavilion Explores Biomimicry at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, 2016, https://www.archdaily.com/787943/elytra-filament-pavilion-explores-biomimicry-in-london 20
Fig 14a, b: Photos of Elytra Filament Pavilion. Source: http://www.elytra-pavilion.com/#movement
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A3.2 Case Study 06 Digital Origami | Singapore, 2014
Through generating and linking repetitive small components and patterns, organic design outcomes can be formed within a set of parameters processed by parametric tools. The Digital Origami is constructed into individual bloacks with 3500 cell-shaped recycled cardboards, plastered together precisely to form an dynamic, arched walk-through exhibit. It is designed under the influence of the investigation on coral reef structure, and through applying algorithm, a pragmatic design using correlated data between architecture and nature is generated. According to Chris Bosse, the developed design idea is claimed to demonstrate that the ‘intelligence of the smallest unit dictates the intelligence of the overall system’ [9], meaning that an environment could be shaped with the smallest individual components which show cohesive interactions with one another. This approach in design fosters the use of computational technology and mathematics to generate complex forms.
Fig 15: Drawing of the individual components of the model
Fig 16: Dgital model of some installed units created in parametric tool
Source: https://www.l-a-v-a.net/projects/digital-origami-masterclass/ark-
Source: https://www.l-a-v-a.net/projects/digital-origami-masterclass/
^[9] Justin Ray, Digital Origami, 2012, http://www.wearedesignbureau.com/projects/digital-origami/nggallery/image/digital_origami_300dpi_ian-barnes_03-07
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Fig 17: Photo of the installation - Digital Origami Source: http://www.wearedesignbureau.com/projects/digital-origami/
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A4. Conclusion
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Part A gives a brief introduction on computation, an innovative design medium that allow designers and architects to experience a new era of designing. The effectiveness and proficiency of algorithmic tools assist in design process, and also foster an increasing involvement in the practice of computational, generative designs. More importantly, it has come to realization that computational strategies acquire analytical and generative systems, which make it capable to creating designs that help in shaping our environments with sustainable solutions.
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A5. Learning Outcomes
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After having studied the prescribed readings and lecture along with the precedents from Part A in Studio Air, my understanding and appreciation of algorithmic design has drastically transformed. Prior to these last few weeks, I didn’t have much knowledge on the basis behind what it can achieve and how important it is in the modern architecture industry. Parametric design was more like a shortcut to create complex geometries through mathematics calculation with the aid of digital programs. At this stage, rather than being acknowledged on how to skillfully create and fabricate design outcomes, I think I have generally explored more design possibilities and what such design tools are capable of in terms of generating responsive design outcomes.
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A6. Aappendix Research on Ladybird (Harmonia Conformis)
Egg
->
Lava
->
Pupa
->
Adult
Characteristics and Habits
Role to the ecology
1. native garden bug found in Australia, except NT and QLD
The majority of Australian ladybirds (bug-eating ladybirds) are considered beneficial to garden environments, and they are considered a sign of good luck or good season for growing food/ plants.
-> Australian ladybirds are only introduced to USA, Europe and NewZealand about a century ago, for the sake of pest controlling 2. mostly are bright coloured (red/orange/yellow) with black dots on their protective shells, serving as a warning to potential predators that they may be toxic, and exude yellow liquid which is foul tasting when they feel scared -> they may drop to ground or fly away as final precaution/ self-defense 3. ideal temperature: between 17C - 27C -> they can be found all year round, but are particularly numerous in early spring, as warming weather makes them more active, but if temperature goes lower than 55 degrees, they will slow down and not fly 4. need nectar and pollen sources in order to lay eggs, female ladybirds lay tiny eggs on the underside of leaves -> the eggs grow into caterpillar-like larvae and eventually hatch into before turning into adult ladybirds 5. they live for 1-2 years on average 6. they can be lured with sweet scents, using a brew of honey mixed with water and brewer’s yeast -> if food seems scarce ladybirds will fly to better pastures 28
They helps in biological control of crop pests in eucalyptus plantations, and play the role of free on-site natural pest control workers who protect the plants from pests, as they are killers of crop pests/ small bugs which feeds by sucking nutrients from plants, for instance, aphids/ mealy bugs/ mites. It is suggested that tree plantations could benefit from the release of ladybirds early in the season when pests are laying eggs. Their natural habits allow human to replace the use of chemical pest control sprays, wherein that serves as a big part in creating a more sustainable future. Therefore, as their existence and habits has major impact on our eco and bioclimatic environments, human should maintain a habitat with suitable conditions for these little creatures.
Site Visit to Lincoln Sqaure and Tramstop Reasons for choosing this location This tramstop is situated along Swanston Street, one of the busiest tram corridor in Melbourne city area, where population is very dense. A mixed use of lands surround the tramstop, for instance, offices, schools, and residential apartments. Apart from those, it is important to note that Lincoln Square is located adjacent to the site. A diversity of vegetation can be observed all around the area. What’s inadequate for the existing tramstop? We went to the site at around noon when the sun glares. The shadings provided by the tramstop facilities could not shade effectively. People were still exposed to the sun, making the wait at the tramstop quite uncomfortable. From our observations, there is a clear boundary between different use of lands. The tramstop has limited/ no connection with the park at the moment. Passerby and passengers who get in or out of the trams do not pay much attention to the greenery, and except for the students from a particular social group, most people just passby the park without staying in there.
What’s different about Lincoln Square comparing to the other two close by, for instance, University Sqaure and Argyle Sqaure? It is located in between the other parks, and can be developed as a park connector to the others. Also, it is the only one that accommodates mid-storey vegetation such as bushes and shrubs. This makes the population of insects more diverse, as there are 60% of insect species inhabit in such environments.
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B1. Research Field
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Patterning Patterning in design is a geometric system that is able to create specific organizations/patterns through repetition of a simple set of visual elements. This technique is a powerful register of articulation, providing innovative amplification of surface correlations and differences [10]. It is commonly applied in façade designs for creating interesting visual rhythms, which could result in dynamic, high�performance ornamentation. and engender a consistent visual experience.
^[10] Patrik Schumacher, Parametric Patterns, 2009
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B.2 Case Study 01 Spanish Pavilion | FOA 2005 World Expo, Aichi, Japan Patterning technique is evident on the lattice envelop of the Spanish Pavilion. Using six hexagonal ceramic tile pieces, an apparently non-repetitive pattern is created through implementing unique shapes and colours to each of the geometries. The patterning technique stands out with its combination of gerometrical variety and colours, which maximizes the presence of pavilion. It is amazing to see how efficient it is to alter the patterns via the use of parametric tools.
Fig 18: Irregular hexagonal pattern Source: https://www.slideshare.net/kappa2007/spanish-pavilion-expo-2005-haiki-aichi-japan
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Fig 19a, b: Spanish Pavilion 2005 Source: https://divisare.com/projects/272168-foa-spanish-pavilion
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Iterations Species
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A. Expression of Culling Pattern
B. Scaling Culling Pattern [Offset = factor (f)]
C. Panelling Points within Cells
x-axis = x*y+1 y-axis = x*y+1
f= 0.1
0, 2, 3, 3
x-axis = x*y-1 y-axis = x*y-1
f= 0.3
0, 3, 3, 3
x-axis = x*y+2 y-axis = x*y+5
f= 0.5
0, 0, 0, 2
x-axis = x*y+5 y-axis = x*y+5
0, 0, 2, 3
x-axis = x*y+10 y-axis = x*y+2
0, 3, 2, 3
D. Pullpoint [Variable = distance (d)]
E. Surface Morphing
F. Change of Thickness [Variable = W Domain (w)]
d= 0.25
Graph Mapper
w= 5
d= 0.5
Drape
w= 9
d= 0.75
Sphere
w= 5
d= 1
Pipe
w= 9
d= -1
Freeforming
w= 9
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Successful Iterations 01.
02.
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03.
04.
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B.3 Case Study 02 Research Pavilion | ICD/ITKE Stuttgart, Germany, 2011 An exploration of patterning technique is exemplified in this project. Hexagonal geometries received from the studied data of animal skeleton are reconstructed through the practice of parametric design [11]. In this section, a reveresed engineering of the Research Pavilion is conducted.
^[6] Benjamin Busch, ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2011, Berlin, https://archinect. com/benbusch/project/icd-itke-research-pavilion-2011 38
Fig20 a,b: Photos of the Research Pavilion 2011 Source: http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=6553 39
Reverse Engineering ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2011
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Reverse Engineering Sequence Step 1 Creating hexagon mesh pattern
Step 2 Scaling + creating 3D pattern a. Moving original pattern b. Lofting c. Capping
Step 5 Creating ruled surface
Step 3 Extracting face
a. brepping the sur
Step 6 Creating boundary a. rotating pattern b. creating bounding box for morphing
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ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2011
es
rface
Step 4-A External shapes
Step 4-B Internal shapes
a. deleting base surface using panel b. extracting wireframe c. joining curves
a. scaling shapes b. deleting base surface using panel c. extracting wireframe d. joining curves e. fillet
Step 7 Creating surface in Rhino
Step 8 Morphing pattern onto Surface
a. Creating surface b. Extracting UV domains
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Reverse Engineering Result -
Perspective
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Top View
ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2011
Side View
Front View
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B4. Development of Reverse Engineering Category 1. Cell Composition Species
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A. Scaling 3D Pattern [Variable = factor (f)]
B. Scaling Internal Pattern [Variable = factor (f)]
f= 0.1
f= 0.2
f= 0.3
f= 0.4
f= 0.5
f= 0.6
f= 0.7
f= 0.8
f= 0.9
f= 1.0
Category 2. Panel Transformation Species
A. Density of 2D Components [Variable = Extent (x, y)]
B. Rotation Angle [Variable = Degree (d)]
C. Height of 3D Components [Variable = height (w)]
x=5, y=5
d=0
w=1
x=10, y=10
d=45
w=3
x=15, y=15
d=90
w=5
x=20, y=20
d=135
w=7
x=25, y=25
d=180
w=9
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Reverse Engineering Sequence Category 3. Form Finding Species
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A. Freeforming
B. Surface Variation: Graph Mapper
C. Surface Variation: Pull point [Variable = Distance (d)]
Sine Simmulation
0.25
Sinc
0.5
Parabola
0.75
Gaussian
1
Bezier
-0.5
Successful Iterations 01.
02.
03.
04.
These iterations show variations of using the same pattern with optimized control over the size and shape of the cells.
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B.5 Technique: Prototypes Creating prototypes allow us explore structural qualities of real-life building materials, which serves as an important process in testing different methods of fabrication.
Prototype 01 Material:
MDF
Connection:
Zip Teeth Method
This prototype replicates the original construction method for the Research Pavilion 2011. As the panels are only joined together through zip teeth, the connections between each panels have to be very precised in order to hold up the structure. Fabrication tab (zip teeth) was employed to create accurate joints in grasshopper. This assembling method can provide a relatively rigid connection.
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Prototype 02 Material:
MDF
Connection:
Flexible Joints
Cut-out holes are offset from the edges on each panel, and wires are used to join the panels together through the holes. This connection method is easy and time-efficient to assemble/ dissemble.
Prototype 03 Material:
Paper
Connection:
Rigid Joints
Taking the flexibility of material, surfaces are extruded along shared edges of geometries, and the extruded strips are manually folded towards the same direction. Panels are then bolted together with staples, which serve as resemblance of actual bolts.
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03. Design Proposal
B.6 Technique: Proposal
The initial idea is to develop a hanging garden that connects Lincoln Square with Argyle Square, which aims to establish a more intimate connection with nature when people walk across Swatonston Street and Pelham Street as well as to reduce urban heat island effect. Flowers that require pollination will be planted on the bridge structure, in order to attract bees and allow their transitions from a park to another. Human can walk on the designed structure to cross Swanston Street without needing to be physically disconnected with natural environment, as greeneries will be planted on the bridge structure. Tramstop will be situated under the bridge, whereas the design for tramstop will be further discussed in Part C.
01. Introduction to the Project
04. Limitation of the Project
The aim for this project is to develop a tram stop with method of increasing habitat for native bees within Lincoln Square and its surrounding environments. With the aid of using parametric design tools, the resulting structure should define spaces for human as well as bees habitations. The proposal should also address and mitigate urban heat island effect through incorporating green spaces into the design.
Load-bearing quality of the structure will also need to be considered as the bridge spans for a long distance. Colomns or additional load-bearing structures may be required. Connections between panels are explored in Part B5, however with all the load stresses considered, the bridge structure requires stronger joints.
02. Considerations for the Project
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^ Perspective
^Section AA
Lincoln Square
A
Argyle Square
A
N
^Site Plan 53
B.7 Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Taking acount to the case studies that we have explored in Part B2 and B3, we have developed knowledge on using patterning technique to create architectural designs. The experimentations in creating a variety of design iterations foster us to generate a design proposal that accomodates the technique. Creating a reversed engineering of Research Pavilion 2011 enables me to analyze and establish full understanding of the contemporary architectural project. Meanwhile, skills in computational designing are also enhanced through watching demonstrational videos online. Through the practice of using parametric design tools, for instance, Rhino and Grasshopper, three dimensional modelling skills are strongly developed, and translated onto the Journal and Algorithic Sketchbook tasks in this subject. These collections of iterations would be shown as a progress of learning, However, it is important to notice that iterations generated via Grasshopper may not be able to physically fit into reailty. Making physical prototypes allows us to experiment with reallife building materials and connections. On top of designing the tramstop at Lincoln Square as a singular structure, I have come to an understanding of issues regarding its surrounding environments. This shows the importance of design planning and how we put a design proposal together after considering all the factors affecting the site.
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B.8 Appendix: Algorithmic Sketches 01. Fractal Pattern
02. Graph Controller
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03. Image Sampling
04. Louvre Abu Dhabi Dome (Reverse Engineering)
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Part C. Detail Design
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During the interim presentation, the panel suggested that we could further develop the idea of using edge bundling technique to define the location of plantation, in this case our design upon urban context would become more parametrically presented. In terms of the contruction prototypes, we were encouraged to further develop some connection methods that are able to optimize structural qualities of real-life building materials. Moreover, core designed structure we proposed in PartB was not able to demonstrate and facilitate enough proximity between human and nature. We planned to refine the design and generate an improved Grasshopper definition to solve this problem.
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C.1 Design Concept 1.1. Site Analysis
The chosen tramstop at Lincoln Square is situated along Swanston Street, one of the busiest tram corridor in Melbourne city area, where population is very dense and a mixed use of lands surround the tramstop. There is a clear boundary in between the existing tramstop and the parks, showing limited connection with natural environments.
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tramstops 61
1.2 Design Concept
Our design intent is to improve connectivity between habitats for insects in supporting urban biodiversity, while creating an experience at the tram stop that enhance the relationship between human and natural elements. This project is to establish a wildlife corridor that attracts our insect client - native Australian bee species which is called Homalictus Bisbanensis that inhabit at Carlton Gardens to a new habitat at Lincoln Square tram stop. A series of habitatation hotspots are proposed to be built within the area between Carlton Gardens and the proposed tram stop, and the locations of these hotspots would be defined via an analysis on the relationship between the flying distance of Homalictus bees as well as the existing infrastructures around the proposed site. From the research we did earlier, it was found out that the bees have minimum and maximum flying distances. This information is parametrically presented using edge bundling method. The points generated on the map have relatively progressive relationships, and they became the locations of our designed structures/ plantations.
INSECT CLIENT: HOMALICTUS BISBANENSIS
Type: Native Australian, solitary bee (5mm)
Characteristics: 1. Anti-predatory response to their enemies (e.g. spiders) 2. Dig intricate branching nests in soil/ timber 3. Inhabit in mid-storey vegetation 4. Max. flying distance is 500 metres
Fact: Gradual declination of bee numbers within Australia
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^Edge bundling diagram
0 500m Proposed Site: Lincoln Square tram stop
Existing habitat where Homalictus bees are found Edge bundling lines Parks’ boundary 63
CHOICE OF PLANTATION: HARDENBERGIA VIOLACEA Type: Australian native vine Characteristics: Grow a cluster of purple pea-shaped flowers
Reasons for selection: 1. Homalictus bees are specifically attracted to this type of flower 2. Abundant and dense flowerings throughout the year provide shades and shelters for insects to inhabit
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^ Controlled height ratio Surfaces tha touches or above 2 metres were projected on to XY plane, and the shape of the projection was used as image sapler for controlling the location of bottom panels.
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1.3. Design Process
DESIGN BRIEF
DESIGN PROPOSAL
Programme:
Insect client:
Concept:
Tram stop
Homalictus Bisbanensis
Connectivity between habitats
Habitat for native insects
Human-Nature relationship Proposed site:
Considerations:
Lincoln Square tram stop
Urban biodiversity Urban heat island effect
Vegetation type: Hardenbergia Violacea
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Research Field - Patterning
1. Create habitatation hotspots to attract bees to fly from Carlton Gardens to proposed site 2. Create an experience with nature for people who are waiting at the tram stop through developing a controlled circulation within the infrastructure using patterning method
PARAMETRIC MODELLING
FABRICATION
CONSTRUCTION
Grasshopper definitions:
1. Design connection system:
1. Edge bundling
Connection plate
1. Assemble individual components off-site
Define locations of new habitats using data collected from analysis on site and insect client
2. Create detailed construction components
2. Form finding Height ratio
3. Prepare file and send off for manufacturing 4. Lasser cutting
2. Deliver materials to site 3. Assemble substructure on-site 4. Connect all components together
5. Pick up the product from workshop
Circulation
3. Patterning Controlling size of cells
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C2. Tectonic Elements & Prototypes
We settled on using timber as our main building material for this project, because it is lightweight and renewable, while the production and processing of timber have low embodied energy, giving the our final design structure a significantly lower carbon footprint than using other materials. These qualities echo with the design brief which aims to modulate urban heat island effect. Moreover, timber components are also easy to assemble. The components were fabricated with lasser cutting technology. MDF was used for this project. COMPONENTS FOR INDIVIDUAL UNITS:
Vertical members
Bottom panel
CONNECTION PLATE: This component is designed to join adjacent individual units together. Lines were drawn on the bottom panel to form the shape of the connection plate. The connection plates were sandwiched by the middle and bottom panels, and with the aid of this three-ways joint, strengthened joints were created.
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Middle panel
Top panel
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Grasshoppper Definition FORM FINDING
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Grasshoppper Definition
PATTE
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ERNING
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Parametric Algorithm FORM FINDING
PATTE
1. Data from site analysis
Main Panel:
Extruded units:
2. Two Curves were created and altered using graph mapper, to create openings/ entrances for the tram stop structure
1. Hexagonal cells were created on the base surface using lunchbox plug-in component
1. Scaled cells were exploded into segments again and culled to remove repeated curves and points
3. An extra curve was created using graph mapper to control the height ratio 4. The curves were lofted together to form the base surface
2. Number sliders are used to alter the number of cells wanted 3. Cells were exploded into smaller segments and culled to remove repeated curves and points 4. Point attractors were employed to control the scale of cells in different areas on the surface (Cells were bigger if they are closer to the attract points, and cell that were further away would be smaller) 5. Initial cell pattern and the scaled cells were merged and lofted to form the main surface of the structure
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2. The inner cells were remapped and scaled smaller under controlled domains 3. The scaled cells were moved upwards along the evaluated surface under controlled domains 4. The inner cells on base surface and the moved cells were merged and lofted to create the extruded units
ERNING
BAKE Bottom panels:
Top panels:
1. Location of bottom panels were defined using image sampler of circulation diagram
1. Location of bottom panels were defined using image sampler after the bottom panels were created (created on areas where there is no bottom panel)
2. Edges of hexagon cells were extracted using List Item 3. The curves were merged and lofted into surfaces to create the panels
1. Each of the lofted surfaces were baked from Grasshopper plug-in to Rhino
2. Edges of hexagon cells were extracted using List Item 3. The curves were merged and lofted into surfaces to create the panels
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C.3 Final Detail Model The openings on the timber frames allow adequate penetration of sunlight, and people can look up and observe the vegetation planted overhead. This creates a stronger connection between human activities and natural elements, while people wouldn’t be exposed directly to the sun. The covered areas and the size of openings are controlled by image sampler and point attractors. They are designed as a directed pathway for passerby and as a shelter, thus defining the circulation within the structure.
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A
A
^ Top View 80
^ Section AA
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Drainage holes were created near the bottom of the extruded units, allowing excessive water to be drained out of the pots and down to the ground through the valley in between the extruded units.
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C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes Objective 1:
Objective 5:
Our group did not have a clear idea on how to achieve the desired aspects of the brief based on our interim submission. We progressively developed our design from the feedback received during presentations and discussions with our tutor. The design process diagram created had helped us mapping out each step upon our project.
A detailed agenda and focussed design concepts helped a lot to facilitate communication amongst groupmates and the panel, which we also realized their importance during the process of proposing and devloping a design.
Objective 2:
Objective 6:
The techniques learned from previous case studies had build up our overall idea of the tram stop design. From Part B, we developed the reverse engineering structure by morphing a pattern on to a surface. However, limitations in generating a variety of design iterations were discovered by that time. So, for Part C, we approached to redevelop a design with another improved grasshopper definition. Through using the technique of image sampler and attract points, we gained more control on generating a variety of patterns.
Referred to previous case studies as precedents for our project and the reverse engineering tasks, we were developed several grasshopper definitions to recreate the features that appear on other architectural projects. Alterations were also constantly made to improve our scripts. It was interesting to know that there are so many methods to generate designs that show resemblance to the comtemporary architectures.
Objective 7 and 8: Objective 3: Throughout the semester, I have participated in intensive practices of using parametric design softwares and fabrication methods. I believe that I have gradually developed the ability to visualize 3-dimensionally, and quickly anaylze how certain connection methods can be best utilized in certain materials.
Objective 4: This course demonstrated the close relationship between parametric designs and real life architecture. This studio allowed us to dive into the practice of using parametric tools, and generating designs that could be more difficult to build in reality. Meanwhile, the other part of the studio also encouraged us to develop components and connection systems that could make the digital designs possible to be constructed. Given that parametric designs are gradually ruling the industry, more creative construction designs are driven to also be developed alongside. 88
We have made multiple attempts on using Grasshopper throughout the semester, and honestly I still have a long journey before mastering this parametric design tool. However, I would say that I have tried and have acquire some basic knowledge on how to function the program. Watching tutorials online had assisted me to accomplish this subject along the way. Practicing to create parametric designs via following online tutorials have helped me to develop a variety of computational techniques. It is important to understand the limitations of parammetrically developed designs, as they might not be structural enough to be built in reality. It would be better if I could keep myself updated with the newly developed plug-ins, such as Kangaroo and Lunchbox which are able to optimize the practicality of digital designs.
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