Kaixin zhang 702248 final jounal

Design Studio Journal: Air

Kaixin Zhang 702248 Semester 1, 2016 Tutor: Sonya

Table of Content

Table of Content

A. Conceptualisation

Introduction A.1 Design Futuring A.2. Design Computation A.3. Composition/ Generation A.4. Conclusion A.5. Learning outcomes A.6. Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches Reference List

Introduction My name is Kaixin Zhang and I am in my final year of Bachelor of Environment, architecture major. Architecture is something I’ve always adored, mainly because its ability to shape interactions and experience of the users; thinking about how the built environment can coexist with the natural environment and allowing designers to apply their artistic and analytic thinking in this problem-solving process.

My first encounter with digital design was during Studio Earth, where I first obtained knowledge of Rhinoceros. Although it was a challenging experience, it allowed me to fundamentally understand how digital programs can assist in the production of sophisticated architectural structures. Looking at nowadays’ architectural projects, the assistance of digital technology is apparent and is recognized as an essential skill. Part A of this journal will provide detailed examples of how digital design is a powerful field in the architectural practice.

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Design Futuring, the finite nature of human species means that we must consider sustainable ways to sustain our habitation and to elongate our existence on the planet. (Fry, 2008). Architects nowadays focus greatly on minimizing environmental impact through responsible design outcomes.

In Vincent Callebaut’s 2050 Vision of Paris, the emerging trend of green buildings is very obvious. Not only do buildings adopt sustainable design components, such as passive shading and solar power reuse, the idea of building vertically is rather prominent. Additional attention is paid to nature and how we could integrate our built environment into it. Given the lack of greenery within the city, the insertion of gardens on high-rise buildings is an increasing trend. While the existence of trees mitigates city pollution, it means that construction methods must advance rapidly to accommodate the change of planting trees above ground level.

Previously community facilities are built horizontally on the ground, nowadays architects tend to shift it vertically. This means that inhabitants no longer need to occupy or exploit large land area for human activities, unoccupied natural land can be valuable for other species. This concept can be inspirations for architects to explore further on future designs.

This is a much appreciated practice all over the world for designers. It sets potential for architects to develop future possibilities, analyzing and rethinking how inhabitance design can contribute to a more sustainable future.

A.1. Design futuring Precedent 1: Vincent Callebaut’s 2050 Vision of Paris as a “Smart City”

Fig.1. 2050 vision of Paris (Giermann, 2015)

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Precedent 2: Guangzhou Opera House Location: Guangzhou, China Architect: Zaha Hadid Project year: 2010

Fig 1. Guangzhou Opera House (Baan, 2011)

The Guangzhou Opera House is a prominent example of architecture being explored through digital computation. It stands out from the surrounding high-rise and box-like buildings, giving emphasis on the geometric shapes both from the exterior and giving sophisticated circulation experience for users. The Opera House design concept was drawn from natural landscape, revolving the idea of erosion and topography in correspondent to nearby river (De Zeen, 2011). It is intriguing to draw ideas from nature, for human species to be sustainable, a close understanding of our environment is critical.

Fig 2. Guangzhou Opera House (Baan, 2011)

Fig 3. Guangzhou Opera House interior (Baan, 2011)

When looking at its computerised form, the use of material and lighting pose a futuristic impression on this city, this is surely a breaking free from ordinary modern architectural forms, not only impressing the inhabitatns, but also instigating architects to explore interesting shapes with the help of computer modelling. The exposed steel skeleton and glass faรงade was a challenge to build. Zaha Hadid and her signiture curvelinear were once unbuiltable (Moore, 2013), but with accelerating construction methods, more and more boldness is getting built. The success construction of Guangzhou Opera House is just one of the example that encourages future possibilites in the field of architecture.

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Unlike architecture that had to follow specific proportioning and shape in order to construct in historical times, the presence of computation redefines architectural practice, this gives the result of more sophisticated architecture, giving architects more freedom and opportunity to explore in great depth of innovative forms and aesthetic possibilities that best suit the Beijing National Stadium in this instance. A simple click of button can give alternative form to this architecture.

A.2. Design Computation Precendent 1: Beijing National Stadium Location: Beijing, China Architect: Herzog & De Meuron

Fig.2. Steel structure (ARC239 Parametricism, 2014)

Computation also allows parties to preview rendered result in real-life environment before it was constructed, individuals who could not comprehend drawings can easily understand the outcome, this allow greater communication between interdisciplinary fields.

Fig.1. Beijing National Stadium (ARC239 Parametricism, 2014)

The Beijing National Stadium is renowned for its bird nest shape, the faรงade of this building consists of steel strips intersecting each other to create an enclosing web. As demonstrated in Fig 3, the form started with a cylinder, and were deducted to complex geometries produced by a set of algorithmic rules, the associated forces required to hold the structure were also determined with the help of the computer (ARC239 Parametricism, 2014). The computer is therefore capable of generating a variety of possible solutions for the architect during the design process as long as a rational programming system is involved. Unlike human that could make mistakes, the computer provides accurate outcomes of the location of the steel system. In this manner, computer and the architect exists symbiotically, with the architect providing the creative inputs and the computer generating possible rational alternative outputs for the designer to make a decision (Kalay, 2004).

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Fig.1. Parametric modelling of Beijing National Stadium (ARC239 Parametricism, 2014) 8

The Centre Pompidou-Metz of France is a clear example of structure produced with the aid of computation. The enormous woven roof covering the beneath structure is a unique combination of triangles and hexagons formulated from the method of form-finding, which is a critical component of computing programs (Galilee, 2007). Form-finding develops the optimum shape for the roof, small adjustments can be easily made by simply changing parameters in the software programs, providing new possibilities in geometrical arrangement of the roof. The form affects the force transferred from the roof to the structure below, therefore it could be a challenge for the construction industry in terms of the feasibility of building it. The construction and design industry is closely linked in achieving the final structure.

Precedent 2: Centre Pompidou-Metz Location: Metz, France Architect: Shigeru Ban Project year 2010

There are also limitations to using computation in the design process. While structures can be digitally generated, structures might be difficult to construct physically. In the Case of Pompidou-Metz, the curved roof is impossible to create by bending one layer of timber beams, therefore new construction means were adopted (Galilee, 2007). However, this could be an advantage in terms of facilitating the construction industry to come up with new fabricating solutions for design outcomes created by computation. Another limitation to computation is that it requires a vast knowledge of computer programming, understanding the logics behind parametric relationship is critical, which can be difficult to adapt to or learn. Ultimately, it relies on human to give input and program meaning (Kalay, 2004).

Fig 1. Centre Pompidou-Metz (Galilee, 2007)

9 Fig 2. Centre Pompidou-Metz computation modelling (Galilee, 2007) 10

A.3. Composition/ Generation Precedent Project 1: Constructed Clouds Project developer: Dongil Kim and Seojoo Lee from the University of California, Berkeley.

This project demonstrates the generative property of forms through experimentation with computation. According to Kalay (2004), design is a process of discovery, and computation maximizes the opportunity for finding complex and interesting outcomes. The Constructed Clouds utilizes parametric modeling that is able to come up with new forms with each updates of algorithmic inputs. The Constructed Clouds is an aggregated model, having a system of octahedrons as the base, a series of lattice, trail or ring shaped structures are generated (Admin, 2015). Fig xx is just two of the many possible interior configurations it proposes. When comparing with the traditional compositional method of design, where a specific outcome is anticipated, this generative approach is an efficient and rewarding design process, due to its ability to generate unexpected forms.

Fig 1. Constructed Clouds (Admin, 2015)

Design generation has been a great area of discourse in terms of the potential it brings to the architectural field. The emergence of literature explaining the shift from traditional composition architecture to a focus on computer generated models surely impact on how architects deal with their design, and the thinking behind their design process.

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Precedent project 2: Thinktank and the life aquatech Project developer: The architectural association school of architecture in London

The resulting form is often achieved with iterative process of updating parametric information, giving algorithmic command to make change to specific areas. Parametric modeling has the ability to create radical, surprising and unlimited forms, however the architect should be aware of the feasibility of construction during the design process.

Thinktank and the life aquatech is an outstanding example of generative design. As the shift from composition to generation is made, the architecture industry responds to this by the emergence of many architectural forms that were not possible to create by composition. ‘Thinktank and the life aquatech’ used generative design process to explore the expression of fluidity in architecture, recreating the flowing effect through the contouring function of parametric software (Wang, 2013). Given the complexity of the organically contoured shape, it would be nearly impossible to achieve by composition.

Fig 2 and 3. Life aquatech (Wang, 2013)

Fig 1. Life aquatech (Wang, 2013)

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A.4. Conclusion

A.5. Learning Outcomes

Part A presents a thorough insight into the emergence of computation and how it instigated the shift towards a more digitally and algorithmically centered thinking and designing process. Computation demonstrates an algorithmic thinking, not only creating forms through surfaces and solids, but rather thinking about their parametric connections and exploring alternatives. Although computation does have its limitation, it is with no doubt that it will occupy and lead the architectural industry into future practice.

Studio Air presented me with a strong understanding of the importance of computation in the field of architecture. I grew a deep appreciation for the programs that allow symbiotic connection between architects and the computer. The power of parametric modeling is substantial to creating unlimited forms for exploration during the design process. With new knowledge of parametric design, I would improve my Studio Earth project that experimented with sprawling linear forms by testing multiple connection possibilities.

Architects also have a great responsibility on how buildings impact on the environment, therefore my design approach for Studio Air would be focusing on how design can mitigate environmental damages and bring benefits to the ecosystem as well as the creature that dwell within it, while advocating the general public to conduct sustainable behavior.

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A.6. Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches

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B. Criteria Design

Table of Content

Table of Content B.1 Research Field B.2. Case Study 1.0 B.3. Case Study 2.0 B.4. Technique: Development B.5. Technique: Prototypes B.6. Technique: Proposal B.7. Learning Objectives and outcomes B.8. Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches Reference List

B.1. Reseach Field

Strips and Folding

B.2. Case Study 1.0 Strips and folding is an interesting area of exploration, its high involvement with mathematical expressions gives more computational possibilities for architectural discoveries. Strips and folding have been widely studied and applied as a form of art, not limiting to architecture, but also in fashion, engineering and even in Japanese origami inspired structures (Herr, Gu, Roudavski, Schnabel, 2011). Strips and folding therefore offer great potential, it looks to nature for inspiration, such as biological forms and result in undulating and curious forms through specific relationships between strings and strips to create weaving and folding. It is highly concerned with physical property and performance, exploring different load types through materiality, and tests for computation and realization possibilities. Its interest goes beyond to look at the intersections between these individual but interdependent elements. Strips and folding offers labyrinthine spatial experimentation, its most prominent example is the creation of biothing, where freely sprawling designs are established by computational algorithms. However, its potential to generate more intriguing free curvilinear forms is appealing, and inspires me to choose this branch of research in Part B. Considering the close relationship of strips and folding to nature, it is highly possible to mimic the fluidity and flexibility forms that are typically found in natural elements, such as flowing water and dynamic movement of living things. This gives the opportunity for examining complex organic architecture that is merged into its surrounding environment.

Biothing - Seroussi Pavilion

Species 2

Species 1 Changing Graph Mapper to sine summation

Brep wires of lofted surface

Connecting end points and lofting

Changing Graph Mapper to sine summation

Explode tree, connect act and Reducing number of circles and extruding

Voronoi and extrude

Species 3 Flattening data structure

Field spin

Changing charge to 3 Changing to Bezier graph

Changing height parameter

Changing charge to 5 Changing to Gaussian graph

Extruding in Y direction

Species 4

Explode tree and changing direction

Sweep Piping Pop 3D, interpolate and extrude

Parabola and Gaussian graph

Species 5

Chaning charge to -1

Fitting circles of various sizes Changing to conic graph Deacreasing circle quantity and extruding

Lofting the left iteration

Pop Geometry and interpola

Species 6

Changing height parameter

Curve Array Polar array

Fit circles and extruding Polar array and extusion

Curve array and pipe

Lofting surface

Lofting surface

4 successful iterations

Selection Criteria 1. Facilitates interactions between human and nature. (I.e. what types of activities can be conducted and what spatial experience can the form offer)

2. Possesses spatial and architectural quality that can adapt to Merri Creek site

This iteration is chosen because it provides an interesting folding effect through intersecting strips, it offers a labyrinthine spatial experience by its meandering form.

Users could be drawn into the space and be overwhelmed with the possible route that they could take within the form. It provides an interesting foundation for material exploration, where rigid material would provide a fixed structure, but a flexible and elastic material would offer user experience by interfering with the location and shape of the strips.

condition.

3. Structure is not limited for human use but also for other creatures of Merri Creek.

4. Form provides possibilities for further experimentation and manipulation.

This iteration demonstrates potential development for a canvas that is constructed underwater specifically for aquatic fauna. It can be used as a habitation structure, the altering transparent and opaque area can provide protection from predators but at the same time allowing sunlight to pass through, human can also see through the structure for observation and learning purposes, bringing human and other natural creatures closer. The form is easily accessible and free in its spatial configuration, providing smooth route for aquatic fauna.

This iteration possesses fluid quality through sprawling of individual tubes. The form has the potential to expand, contract and alter its shape according to surrounding conditions, such as the effect of wind or flow of water.

Thereby interacting with the dynamic ecological condition of Merri Creek, and possibly mimicking biological behavior. This structure does not only provide design opportunity for human, but also for both aquatic and land fauna of Merri Creek.

This iteration is interesting because it mimics the form of petals. It can be applied as a walking platform, the center can be an area of gathering, weather for fauna or human, the social interactions are facilitated through the form. The structure can also be used as a shelter if inverted and applied with a soft membrane cover. It again has the quality of undulation and fluidity that epitomizes spatial interest.

B.3. Case Study 2.0 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010

The ICD Pavilion is an innovative structure that demonstrates a material-oriented computational design and production process. In real world, form is inseparable to material and structure behavior, however in computational modeling, this material and physical property is often less integrated (Fleischmann, Knippers, Lienhard, Menges, & Schleicher, 2012). The driver of structural form of the ICD Pavilion is the notion of elastic bending, the structure is made of extremely thin plywood strips alternating and intersecting in bending and tensioning fashion to create the woven effect. The project studies the properties of plywood under the FEM (Finite element analysis) model, which tests the real-world reactivity of product to a variety of physical effects (Autodesk, 2016). In this case, the elasticity and the level of deflection is investigated in this project, connection points are determined as seen in Fig 1. This is the key in achieving this interesting structure of great complexity but high load bearing (Fleischmann, et al., 2012). This project is very successful in its attempt to embed physical and material property into computational design, rather than adopting the traditional geometrically-driven design motives. The performance capacity of plywood is explored to a great level to deliver an interesting torus spatial configuration, a surprising undulation journey that demonstrates the concept of strip and folding explored in Case Study 1.0.

Fig 1. ICD pavilion (Fleischmann, et al., 2012)

Reverse Engineering

Reference two circles in Grasshopper

Generate lines along plane of each arc

Fig 2. FEM simulation mode (Fleischmann, et al., 2012)

Connect arcs between

Extrude arc along li

Similarites and differences of reverse engineering product to ICD pavilion There are similarities in the general torus form, both are based on a serious of arches intersecting one another. However, the ICD Pavilion are modeled through extremely sophisticated analytical process, the reverse engineering product lacks the physical and material properties of the real structure. The location of intersection also differs significantly.

Working with two sets of data to create intersections of arcs

Taking this definition further...

To take this definition further, I would like to explore the following to the reverse engineering product: -Geodesic -pattern -surface morphing

Final outcome

B.4. Technique: Development Species 1

Species 2

Species 3

Species 4

Species 5

Species 6

Species 7

Most successful iterations

This iteration interests me because it creates a stepping stone effect. The structure was generated from exploring contouring, it can be adapted to a variety of conditions, such as above water for users to walk on, with alterations of individual sizes, materiality and texture can create exiting spatial experience. For example, it could mimic how land fauna feel about land waste accumulation in their habitation area by creating surfaces that are difficult to walk upon for human to contemplate their impact on the environment. The structure can also be placed under water as a manmade habitation for fish. It can be adapted to Merri Creek considering its rough surface texture and response to surrounding landscape such as basalt rocks near Dights Fall.

B.5. Technique: Prototypes Prototype # 01

This iteration was created by the weaving component, changing the angle of weaving and the amplitude of weave. It creates a structure that starts off as individual elements but merges together as an unidentifiable mass in the center, thereby generate enclosure and openness depending on where you are. The opened space facilitates exposure and interaction with nature, while the enclosed space can create isolated feelings. The strips also have the potential to move according to the dynamic condition of Merri Creek, for example it is possible to possess lively behavior that respond to nature by the fluid quality of strips being unfixed at a certain point. It also has the potential to be partially emerged in water, I could imagine users walking along the top path. More design possibilities could be generated by altering the thickness and position of strips.

Prototype # 02

e: This prototype tests the idea of folding and looks at a pinned joint that allows flex-

form. The cardboards create a layered affect and can be moved freely to form new f rigid supports are given, as shown in the image on the left, it can create a more ce that allow movement through the structure. This prototype is adaptable to both ater, however recycled plastic material would be used to allow for a light and flowing ater body.

and fabrication: Recycled cardboard, steel wires and straws are used. Card-

abricated identically to standardize the outcome. The steel wires create a pinned joint nched holes in the cardboard and the straws give height definition to individual layas providing rigidity for the wires.

Structure: This prototype looks at the connection of an array of strips. The parametr

demonstrates connection made in the middle section of each strip; however I wanted t a dynamic structural connection rather than a fixed connection. Although the net and s firmly tied together, the net being highly adaptable, can be twisted, stretched and contr to its original position. Each strip do stay in the middle section of neighboring strip, b have the freedom to move around. The weaving pattern is interesting and can be adapte Creek, such as allowing aquatic fauna to pass through the net or collecting rubbish.

Material and fabrication: Recycled cardboard and plastic net are used to create

ing pattern. Cardboards are fabricated at the same width as the net openings, together frictions between two material, each pieces are fixed in place tightly.

Prototype # 03 Cardboard is used with foam board to create this structure. This connection considers how strips can be joined together in its rigid place. Slots are created to accommodate for the connection of strips of equal width. This structure is comparatively less fluid in its ability to alter its shape according to site conditions, however it still allows movement in-between the strips. This prototype has the potential to create interesting spatial experience if multiple sets are placed in adjacent to each other, fauna or human can meander through the gaps.

B.6. Technique: Proposal

Site observation and analysis

Site location: Dights Fall

(Google Map, 2016)

Fig. 03 Existing fishway at Dights Fall and its surroungding geological condition.

Fig. 05 Fast river current created by man-made weir of Dights Fall.

Site response

Identified problems: 1. Existing viewing platform do not provide sufficient view.

2. No real observation can be made due to the level of sediments and environmental damage done to Merri Creek ((Melbourne water, 2016).

3. A more integrated system can be achieved that possess greater spatial and

architectural quality that draws more attention and awareness to environmental damages.

Fig. 04 Rubbish accumulation near the existing fishway.

Proposed Brief: User of Site : joggers, trail walk, observation groups Stakeholders of design proposal: - Merri Creek Management Committee - Fauna species of Merri Creek - Potential new species - Users of Merri Creek for recreational or educational purposes.

To redesign the fishway and integrate a viewing platform for human observation of the migration process in order to parreciate and care for our natural surroundings.

Fig. 06 fish species and migration pattern(Melbourne water, 2016)

B.7. Learning Objectives and outcomes

Existing fishway Fishway is an artificial pathway that allows for fish species to pass through barrier in Merri Creek (Melbourne water, 2016). The current fishway of Dights Fall consist of vertical slots that are gradually sloped.

Merri Creek supports 17 species of native fish and 11 species migrate downstream and upstream during their lifecycle.

The existing fishway structure provides great opportunity for folding structure, it is essential that the slot is divided into segment chamber to slow down the water flow. Therefore I could use the idea of folding to generate final design for Part C.

In Part B of Studio Air, my ability for exploring algorithmic possibilities greatly improved over the repetitive process of iteration generation with provided definition. I was able to specialize in specific parametric techniques that had its own limitations and potentials, and understood how the outcome could be applied to final design through culling design iterations by the selection criteria I listed. Reverse engineering was a challenge because the result was given and we had to work within limited framework, rather than creating iterations that could have infinite possibilities. However at the same time I gained more understanding on how parametric modeling can benefit and assist the design process by providing a variety of possible outcomes.

I lacked performance in digital fabrication, although interesting results are produced using traditional model making method, lase cutting would pose potential problems during the actual assembling of parts, as changes cannot be easily made through traditional trimming or editing of model parts. I will make sure to experiment with digital fabrication the following Part C.

B.8. Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches

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Table of Content

C. Detailed design

C.1. Design concept C.2. Tectonic Elements & Prototypes C.3. Final Detail model C.4. Learning outcome Full list of reference

Dights Falls Reconstructing the Fish way and bringing human closer to nature

C1.1

Technique development and implementation

Fig 2

Fig 3

My partner (Yiyun Xu) on the other hand

were interested in manipulating with geometry and patterning. Fig 2 and Fig 3 is an iteration drawn from Volta Dom, it is a repetitive system of gaps that facilitate movement of fish through the fishway. Our final design adopted this methodology as its fundamental structural system.

In Part B, I looked at Biothing that had

the characteristic of sprawling in different direction according to field forces, and extended to experiment with strips and folding, which had strips that intersect, overlap and connect in unique ways that were suitable for a Fishway design.

Fig 1 is one of the iterations that is an ideal platform structure that allows human to observe their surroundings, this idea is adopted in the final design.

Fig 1

This pattern is chosen as the

Emphasis on lines and strips is shown from my exploration with computational techniques, this directed the symbolic aspect in formulating the final shape of my design.

dominating repetitive pattern of the fishway and platform integrated structure. It is drawn from the general shape of Yiyun’s Case study 2.0 -- The San Gennaro North Gate, which is prominent for its repeated panels.

C1.2 Site Location

Vegetation

Direction of water flow

Human activities - jogging - sightseeing

Water level (Melbourne Water)

Existing Fishway and circulation The existing Fishway does not provide the deisrable amount of view to users. Given the great amount of fish migration that occurs at the Fishway, this is a great opportunity for field observation, learning and contemplation. Therefore it is a critical move to redeisgn the Fishway in a way that attracts users to the location and they ae able to view the aquatic ecosystem of Merri Creek.

C1.3 Design proposal Brief:

2. Integrated platform constructed with frame and panel system.

To redesign the fishway and integrate a viewing platform for human observation of the migration process in order to evoke aparreciation and care for our natural surrounding.

Feedback from Interim presentation is addressed by focusing on single area of site im-

provement rather than trying to solve multiple problems found on site. Human participation is also considered by creating a structure that brings human closer to nature. Investigations are made to study how fishes move through the targeted site and what structure best assist their pattern of movement.

3. General shape inspired by simplified fish form Curvy structure that respond to the sinuous basalt landscape and river current

Why is this change necessary?

1. To break free from traditional concrete fishway structure 2. To allow greater human interaction and observation of their surrounding to raise awareness of environmental protection

3. To create a design that better respond to Merri Creek site condition

Solution 1. interesting pattern drawn from Case Study 2.0

Design Technique illustration Loft curves to form surfaces

Divide surfaces into U and V segments

Dispatch surface box as target box for morphing

Form surface boxes onto surface

Morph pattern onto surfaces

Generated framing system for enclosingsides

Generated framing system for platform

C1.4 Final design

Perspective View Internal View

Side View

Plan View

Design components Interconnected compartments connected to the side enclosing structure

Top platform structure Side enclosing structure

C1.5 Functional consideration

The side framing and panel structure is partially submerged beneath Dights Fall, the different panel sizes are oriented according to the river current. Area that is directly adjacent to the weir have panels of greater sizes due to their greater surface area and ability to slow down the river current.

According to research conducted by Alden Research Laboratory, Inc. (2002), fishes do not always recognise single entrances to Fishway structure, therefoe our design leave occasional gaps that direct and invite fishes to enter.

The Fishway design incorporates a platform for human traffic and observation, this structure is composed by a framing system generated with patterns and an attached glass panel for clearity and movement. When users approach this platform, they will be able to view what’s underneath.

Functionality of the fishway is ensured by providing alternating slots along its structure. This ensures that the river current is further reduced. For this design, we adopted a flexible system that swings slightly with the river current, while still providing the gap required to direct the fish through the journey.

C1.6 Sun Analysis using real time Lady bug plug-in Month: 02 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Left

By using real life Melbourne sun information provided by Lady bug plug-in, it is possible to visulise the expected sun exposure of the platform structure, and hence anticipate any interesting shadows casted.

Top view at all time

Month: 06 Time: 10:00 A.M. View: Left

Month: 06 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Left

Month: 02 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Right

Month: 06 Time: 10:00 A.M. View: Right

Month: 06 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Right

Month: 09 Time: 10:00 A.M. View: Left

Month: 09 Time: 10:00 A.M. View: Right

Month: 09 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Left

Month: 09 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Right

Month: 10 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Left

Month: 10 Time: 14:00 P.M. View: Right

C2.1 Core construction element

A framing and panel system is considered to be the repetitive core construction elements in this design.

Materiality consideration As sustainability and environmental concern is the main focus of the design, recycled plastic will be used to construct the framing system. Since the structurally is partially in water, it is important that the material does not rot or corrode.

The high level of plastic waste found in Merri Creek site is a great opportunity for recycling.

Glass panels also have the potential to be recycled and reused, and it is not subject to little environmental degredation.

Cost and Feasibility analysis The cost of building underwater structure can be substantial, however all parts of the structure can be prefabricated and transported to stie for reduced labour and on-site cost. The cost of transportation will not be a problem as each piece is of transportable size.

C2.2 Connections 1. Bolts to nuts connection

The platform uses bolts and nuts connection to give its rigidity. This is a fixed connection, and the steel bolts should be treated (i.e. painted) to protect from water and other environmental damage

2. ROPE WITH CLAMP CONNECTION

Bolts and nuts are again used for the enclosing side frames to fix the frame to glass panels for a rigid connection.

This type of connection gives a flexible characteristic. In reality, the rope would be coated with metal cladding to avoid breaking and reduce maintainence. The clamp make sure the ends stay fixed.

3. Metal base connection

This interlocked system consists of two panels that sits inside a base, of which it connects with the framing system by a piece of metal strip to give rigidity.

C2.3 Connection model

Bolts and nuts connection

C2.4 Prototype detail model #1

Top view

Rope connection

Fig 01 Side view

C2.5 Prototype detail model #2 - Adjustments

Fig 02. Side enclosing system to platform connection

Base plate to side enclosing system connection

Interior rope connection

This prototype detail model tested our innitial fabrication methodology and proved its inability to support itself. The identified problems are as follow:

1. As shown in Fig 02, a right angled connection was expected for the side to platform connection, however, Fig 01 proved its failure to hold the right shape

2. Due to lack of grasshopper adjustment, panels and frame do not connect in the expect-

ed manner and creates an overly curved enclosing side rather than a slight curve that were desired.

3. Base connection were successful, however due to the above problems, the structure can hardly support itself.

Adjustment made: A solid base is added, base connection location is controlled to create the sinuous lines our design intended. Extra rigidity is given by bolting strip to side enclosing frame. The structure therefore holds its shape very well.

Connection details to base

Ajustment made: A right angled ‘steel’ angle bracing is added, using bolts and nuts connection to successfully connect the side enclosing frame to the platform system.

Adjustment made: Grasshopper adjustments are made to ensuer that the each framing system matches the cooresponding glass panels, the pattern are therefore more regular and forms a unified system.

Stiffening strip is bolted to the frame

Central flxible system is bolted to the side enclosing system

C3 Final Detail model

Site model Scale 1:200

C4 Learning objectives and outcomes During the semester of Studio Air, I have come across many challenges in par-

ametric modelling as well as fabricating models. However, this process allowed me to analyse a chosen site for its opporunities and improvements; generate a brief and provide a solution according to site conditions. I am able to follow this process step by step, although I am not fully confident about my parametric modelling skills, Studio Air did provide me with the opportunity to lead me through the foudamentals of algorithmic thinking and processing. It also changed my traditional view regarding modelling in Rhino environment. For example, The Kangaroo plug-in is able to mimic real life physical situation, this is very useful in situations where form finding; tensile and compressive forces are involved. The lady bug plug-in is able to provide real life sunlight data, this is especially useful if your design depends heavily on light. Fabricating through laser cut and 3D printing were challenging because situations in real life behave very differently from what’s in the computer. Therefore careful considerations must be given to calculate the exact connection details, otherwise models can be unsuccessful, this is applicable to me where I had to update connection details for my model to support its own weight. Parametric modelling is a very useful tool, especially in today’s environment. Through Studio Air’s Part A, B and C, I am able to understand how it can assist the process of design thinking and design possibilities. I certainly need to have ongoing engagement with such skill, improve along the way and endeavour to master it in my future career.

Full reference List Admin. (2015, November 09). Constructed Cloud: Generative Growth Aggregation in Solar Environment. Retrieved March 17, 2016, from http://www.evolo.us/architecture/constructed-cloud-generative-growth-aggregation-in-solar-environment/ ARC239 Parametricism. (2014, March 25). Beijing National Stadium. Retrieved March 13, 2016, from https://arc239parametricism.wordpress.com/2014/03/25/beijing-national-stadium/

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