Man Keung Lee 551518
COMPOSITE MATERIAL
ABOUT ME
my life in Melbourne, especially its fresh air which Hong Kong lacks. As an architecture student, I loves classical buildings more than the contemporary buildings because of their regularity, order and sublimity. So air studio is a very good chances for me to take a deep look in the contemporary building using parametric technology. And I believe it is the future of architecture as the use of parametric technology makes complex geometry in building possible and it could utilize the material more effectively and efficiently.
Hi, my name is Man Keung Lee. I am majoring in architecture in the Bachelor of Environments at The University of Melbourne. I come form Hong Kong and this is my third year in Melbourne. The building environment between Melbourne and Hong Kong is quite different as Hong Kong is well known for its skyscrapers. Melbourne gave me totally different feelings with is flat land and suburban house. And I do enjoy
Software experience Before doing Virtual Environment, I have never used computer for designing. In that studio, I started to explore Rhino as a tool of designing and I also used panelling tool plug-in to help creating the digital model. I also started using InDesign and illustrator to construct my journal. I could do basic function with them, by honestly I am not an expert in them so I still have a long way to master them well. In water studio and Construction Design, I started to use AutoCad to draw plans, elevations and sections. After water Studio, I realize that I lack the ability to present the digital model nicely, so I started learning Cinema 4D as a rendering tool.
Virtual Environment Design
Water Studio Design
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Contents
Part A - Introduction A.1. Architecture As Discourse
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A.2. Computational Architecture 11 A.3. Parametric Modelling 15 A.4. Conclusion 19 A.5. Learning Outcomes 20 Part B - Design Approach B.1. Design Focus 22 B.2. Case Study 1.0 24 B.3. Case Study 2.0 28 B.4. Technique: Development 34 B.5. Technique: Prototypes 44 B.6. Technique Proposal 50 B.7. Learning Objectives and Outcomes
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Part C - Design Proposal C.1. Gateway Project: Design Concept
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C.2. Gateway Project: Tectonic Elements
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C.3. Final Model 70 C.4. Learning Outcomes 92 References 96 Appendix 98
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Introduction - Western Gateway Design
In order to upgrade the condition and aesthetics of Wyndham City’s environment, the city council established this Gateway Project. It was aimed to inspire and enrich Wyndham City. The design needs to be ‘longevity in its appeal, encourage ongoing interest in the Western Interchange by encouraging further reflection about the installation beyong a first glance’[1]. The project would be located within a very flat and wide open landscape. It also needs to make an impact for high speed movements. It should be accessible to a wide public and should explore place-making aspects and qualities[2].
[1] [2]
Key consdierations: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
Prominent location of the site at the entry to metropolitan Melbourne. Back dropped by a large scale service centre Consideration of how the installation integrates with and/or sits in the immediate and surrounding landscape Iconic feature Appropriately scaled Dialogue between sculpture and landscape to compose the Gateway Original and engaging in form Object-centred individual sculpture or a more experimential approach Literal or abstract Adherence to the regulations imposed by VicRoads in relation to siting, view lines, setbacks, material, colours etc Daytime and night time viewing Safety, ease of maintenance, material and longevity
Architecture as a Discourse
‘Ideas are not innate but provisional.’ [3] Architecture is meaningless without users. It is a medium to transfer ideas. Its quality and beauty is defined by users. Everyone might perceive different feelings. And it changes under the change of time, weather and mood.Feelings change when the context changes. So does architecture. With the aid of digitalization, we are now able to make significant improvement in the design of architecture. Pure form, complex geometry, material propesties could be well considered in the design process.
[3] Hill, Jonathan (2006)
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Church of Light
Tadao Ando used to emphasize nothingness and empty space to represent the beauty of simplicity. It is a church with contrast. Reinforced concrete is the major component of the church, which normally gives a sense of heaviness,lifeless, and etc. However, all this characteristics were perfectly utilized to make contrast to the light. The cross in the front changes the mood totally. The lights penetrated define the volumne of the interior space. The church is not for sight seeing, but praying and worshiping. In the renaissance/ baroque cathedrals, lights are penetrated from the top, which symbolized Heaven and God. Ando made a different approach, where lights are penetrated from forward. Yet, it gave a feeling of divinity and also a sense of
welcome from God. Ando made a step forward from the old ages.
http://ibaraki-kasugaoka-church.jp/gallery.html
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Salk Institue for Biological Studies
‘Architecture must be immaterial and porous, as well as solid and stable where necessary.’ Hill, Jonathan (2006) Salk Institute demonstates how a good architecutre should be accoding to Hill and Jonathan. It is the modernist attempt to frame the atmosphere with architecture. It consists of two mirror-image structures that flank a grand courtyard.The use of repetition and strong axiality, emphasized the simple geometry of the surrounding buildings. These building blends with the nature in harmony as shown in the images. It is still using as its original function, but there are also architectural tours for those interested to know more about this award-winning architecture. It has also been described as the single most significant architectural site in San Diego.
http://www.salk.edu/about/architecture.html
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A.2. Computational Architecture ‘Scripting is a voyage of discovery. ‘ Burry, Mark (2011) In this information age, our lives are closely bound with computer. In architectural field, the word computerization and computation have always been misunderstood. While the former one is the use of computer to design, such as using AutoCAD to digitize the documentation, the latter one is the use of algorithm in the process of design. Not only allow architects to design buildings with complex geometry, it expands the possibility of design with the consideration of material properties. ‘With the aid of computational design tool, material behaviroal characteristics are integrated as parametric dependencies based on a large number of physical and computational tests. Thus, architectural form, material formation and
Reference
structural performance can be considered synchronously.’ Fleischmann, M., Knippers, J., Lienhard, J., Menges, A. and Schleicher, S. (2012) ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion is a perfect example of computation design considering material behavior: The shape of the final outcome is determine by the elastic bending of plywood, which forms the elastically bent arch structures. The research pavilion’s structure is entirely based on the bending deformation of thin birch plywood strips within the elastic range. This is different from most of the architectural design, where normally the architect will design the shape of the final outcome. Material itself does not play an important role to the design of shape. However, this project demonstrates another path of design where material properties were fully investigated and driven the shape of the product.
Another main difference of computation design compared to the ordinary design process is the close relation between architect and manufacturer. ‘The manufacturing and assembly logics were integrated in the computational process.’ Fleischmann, M., Knippers, J., Lienhard, J., Menges, A. and Schleicher, S. (2012)
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a huge improvement on the precison between the product and the design, as architect can control every small detail of the construction process. More creative potential of the design could then be exploited ‘Architects have started to integrate fabrication as a generative paradigm into the design process.’ Gramazio, F., Kohler, M. and Oesterle, S. (2010) Therefore, fabrication-relevant decision would be included in the early design process. With the material properties data provided by the manufacturer, architect would be able to control complex interactions between singular material elemnets, and produce the machining data directly. It can foresee that the tightening bond would make
West fest pavilion project is an good example showing the precision of computeraided manufacturing (CAM).
‘So when we use methods of computation, it is not a technology that we try to do something with it; the focus is more on design intent and the architectural idea and concept. We try to find the right tool, and develop the tool to make the concept work.’ Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘While he admits that there is often an ornamental aspect, the designs are not primarily visually driven. The generation of geometry and material configurations are performance driven.’ Peters, Brady. (2013) It might be a trap for architects that more and more complex geometry can be achieved through computation. However, it is a tool to aid architects to design, not a tool constraining the design of architects. Design ideas should always be the centre of the architecture, not its geometry.
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Nordpark Carble Railway Zaha Hadid Architects
A.3. Parametric Modelling
Using the new production methods such as CNC milling, the manufacturer can ensure the precision of the building with the digital design. It successfully achieved a streamlined aesthetic which could hardly be done without the aid of computation. Undeniably the building is impressive with its fluidity. It is arguably that whether the design blends into its context nicely, as its soft form is quite different from the rigid buildings in the surroundings. However, like many of the other computation design, this building is much energy efficient than most of the building using contemporary design method. The use of computation can modify every smallest detail of the architecture to provide the best energy outcome. Also, its great flexibility also makes it adaptive to the change in the topography.
Parametric design is still a developing style in architecture and there is a long way to gain the society, business and political acceptance. As discussed in the previous section, computation is a process of discovery, where architects might not be able to give the exact outlook at the very first start of design process. Investor might be impatient as architects need to vary the parameters to find the best possible outcome. In the reality, the greatest concern of the clients are the interest of investment, the increasing time of design might lead to increasing amount of cost.
time is required. ‘A far greater range of potential outcomes for the same investment in time.’ Burry, Mark (2011) Using computation, different potential outcomes can be generated easily through changing of parameter, therefore it gave more choice for the clients to choose the best outcome.
Although the design period might be longer, the fabrication would be much easier as manufacturers can start fabricating using the data provided from the architects. Therefore, less construction
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Cardboard Cathedral
Cardboard Cathedral is built in attempt to temporarily replace the old 19th century Anglican cathedral that was damaged by the magnitude-6.3 earthquake in 2011. As there is a need to build a new cathedral for the community, this temporarily Cathedral is built so that people can have a place to pray, worship and hold events and concerts. It is a waste-sensitvie house that is made of paper tube, a recyclable, low-cost and remarkably resilient material. The frame structure is built from timber, stell, 98 polyurethane and flame retardantcoated cardboard tube. Though the material seems cheap and not particular strong, Cardboard Cathedral is built to last with a lifespan of five decades. And it is 100 percent up to earthquake code. Though it is not appealing,
the Cardboard Cathedral did achieve many of its brief. As in an inspiration to our project, the use of composite material in this building reduces the material cost, yet still providing a satisfying lifespan and performance. Cheap, soft material can be turned useful if its properties were being used effectively and combined with the other material. This will be what we are trying to achieve, combine materials with different properties to provide a final structure with good performance and attracting outlook. Computation is needed as they help investigating propeties of materials by converting them into digital parameters.
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Composite material Precedent
In our definition, composite material means materials are working as a close system. The system fails when one of it is missing.
Composite materials not only allow for smooth formal transitions between surface and line, but increase in capacity through such blending.
In order to investigate and see how a composite material can do and how it is being used in the industry, we look at the writings and the works of Tom Wiscombe.
Things can be embedded, inlayed, or squished into surface. Surfaces can become multilayered and multimaterial rather than monolithic ad based on single surface systems. Therefore it can increase the efficiency, performance, aesthetic and many other aspects.
He is a designer and teacher. In his works, the form, pattern, color and technology work closely and form into a singular, irreducible construction. In the past, buildings are always patchworks of different materials, which means a material would infill a frame made of another material.Therefore the shapes of the architecture were constrained by the frames. However, as Wiscombe mentioned, composite materiality allows us to build differently. ‘Composite materiality allows for a radical new liberty in design in terms of creating synthetic material effects, the unparalleled control of joints and seams beyond relentless panelization, and the ability to fuse structure and envelope.
1.
2. 1. Batwing, a ceiling embedded with HVAC system, is a blended structure made of composite materials, incorporating structural, mechanical, enclosure and lighting systems.
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The above example shows that ornament could be done from the inside. We might consider having decorations in the fabric before pouring the resin, this might give some interesting effect and reduce the simplicity of the plain surface.
2. Tracery Glass, 2009. Solar thinfilm and cooling channels embedded between formed polycarbonate sheets 3. Thermo-strut, 2009. Solar thermal system becoming ornamental tracery.
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A.4. Conclusion
As mentioned above, my philosophical idea of architecture is that it is a journey, an experience to continuous discovering. And this will be the main idea of the gateway design. Users will be refreshing and fascinating by its abstract appearance. Parametric design will be used since it helps integrated the design and fabrication unit. It is presumably that there will be limited construction hour to avoid disturbing the traffic. Parametric design integrated the fabrication unit in the early phase of the design process, and a more precise result would be achieved due to the use of CNC manufacturing. Given the greater ability to control details, individual parts of the design will be adjusted to fit in the context to make it blend with the environment. Also, it will be a design that interacts with the atmosphere which aimed to produce a design that frame the
nature. Composite materials will be used in the design, where properties of different materials will be converted into parameters in the designing tool in order to produce a efficient outcome. These materials will be combined together in order to produce a design that balances the efficient and the lifespan.
A.5. Learning Outcomes
As doing this assingment, I became more familar with parametric design and computation method. At first I though computation is the same as computerization, which I found this was a common misunderstaning towards parametric design. I became more familiar about the change in design and construction process under computation. Although I have not gone very deep in the practice of parametric design, I saw its ability to generate fascinating geometry in a short amount of time, which could never be done easily using comtemporary method. Moreover, it enables changes of the detail by changing the parmaters. It is all about doing experiments with the deisgn and to discover properties of the design.
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Part B. EOI II: Design Approach
B.1. Design Focus
Group Argument Our group decided to focus on geodesics as the field of interest. A geodesic is the shortest route between two points on a surface. With the aid of parametric tools, it is possible to apply geodesics to complex geometries that could hardly be done in the past. The scope of geodesics construction has a lot of possibilities and it is very efficient. It can minimize the material use yet maximize the architectural presence in space. With this parametric approach, it could help create a massive structure with less material, and we believed that we could bring an astonishing impression for the drivers passing through the gateway.
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Montreal Bioshpere Buckminster Fuller
B.2. Case Study 1.0 Doing more with less The Montreal Biosphere was built by Buckminster Fuller for the 1967 World’s exhibition. The biosphere was donated to the city of Montreal later by the US goverment. The biosphere was built out of steel pipes and large pieces of acrylic paneling. The biosphere demonstrated several Fuller’s attempt to improve human shelter: applying modern technological to shelter construction; making the shelter more comfortable and efficient; making shelter more economically availiable. [6] The sphere was attempted to enclosed the largest volume of interior space with the least amount of surface area thus saving on material and cost. The sphere uses tiangle as panel because it helps to resolve the force inside the supporting members. This kind of system utilize gravity rather than opposing
it, whcih can create a strong nad light construction similar to airplane [7]. We are particular interested in this building because of its efficient use of material and the ability to create maximum interior space. In the gateway project, the design should be accessible to a wide public, therefore we would like to create an architecture with great interior space, so that more people could be able to enter it if there is any event hold inside the structure. Also, the efficient use of material allows us to build a massive structure with less material, since the gateway project should be eye-catching in the first glance, we would like to build a gigantic sculpture in the site.
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1. Quads Panel
2. Random Quads Panel
3. Staggered Quad Panel
4. Triangle Panel B
5. Triangle Panel C
6. Triangle Panel A
7. Brace Grid 2D Structure
8. Grid Structure
9. Diamond Grid Structure
10. Hexagonal Structure
Parametric Diagrams As there is no definition provided in LMS for grids and lattice, we then looked at the lunch box plug-in in grasshopper. It could be used to generate panels for a surface very easily. First, we created a basic geometry, which would be applied panels later on. In lunch box, we could choose either applying panels or create a structure over the surface. We found that the use of applying panel could be found in many of the contemporary architecture, as it could help to construct a complex a geometry into a more fluid shape if there is more nodes inside the structure.
1. Creating geometry
We can also create our own panels and structure grid using lunch box, which give a different feeling compare to basic quad, triangular structure. The highlighted result are more successful since they are able to rebuild the sphere closely better. If we want to create a more fluid design using lunch box, quad, and triangular panel are prefer rather than diamond and hexagonal structure, as the increasing number of sizes make it hard to cover the whole surface smoothly. Also, increasing number of UV helps to create a smoother surface, howerver, it may also increase the calculating time. However, there is a limit in the use of lunch box. Although user could create their own panel, the basic geometry constraints the shape of the final structure. Therefore we need to find another way for form finding in our design.
3. Creating Structure
2. Creating Panel
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Canton Tower
B.3. Case Study 2.0
The Canton Tower is the world’s tallest TV tower [8] designed by Information Based Architecture. The tower is very slender and tall, as the designers wanted to design a free-form tower like a female figure, being complex, transparent, curvy , gracious and sexy [9].
I would like to design to demonstrate curvature and fluidity because these properties gave an energetic impression. This case study could be used to show how a building could be made curvy and sexy with steel columns.
The form, volume and structure is generated by two ellipses, one at foundation level and the other at a horizontal plane at 450 metres. The structure consist of a open lattice-structure with 1100 nodes [10]. Since skyscapers are usually assoicated with the feeling of lifeless, the Canton tower made a good attempt to embed human properties in the building. As the gateway project will be located next to the highway, the drivers driving through would quickly get bored by the design if it is lifeless and oridinary.
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First Attempt to rebuild Canton Tower
In the first attempt rebuilding the Canton Tower, I used a rather sample method. The first thing is to determine the geometry of the tower. Then, several curves were created and lofted later to obtain the geometry. Using lunch box plug in, the loft surface could be resolved into a grid structure. Using the photos of the Canton Tower as a reference, we found that the digital model would look like the tower better using diamond grid structure. As a result, a diamond grid would be applied to the loft surface, we then apply a pipe component in order to visualize the grid lines. As the actual tower used 1100 nodes to create the whole structure, we increased the number of UV in order to get the closest number of nodes.
At the first glance, the digital model looks alike the Canton Tower, but when we looked at the tower again, we found that the grid structure was a bit different from the digital model. Rather than simplily applying the structure, the actually tower looks like being twisted. Also, the steels enclosuring the surface have differnt radius, so it is not uniform as what I have done in the pipe component.
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Second Attempt to rebuild Canton Tower
Other than lofting the curves and applying the panels, I tried to look at differnt ways to rebuild the tower. I do another research in surface blending in grasshopper. 1. Create the basic curves. 2. Divide the surfaces and construct lines between the surface. 3. Evaluate the lines and create points in a desinated position. 4.Create a new surface from the points evaluated . This method is quite diffent form the first method. Because the new surface created shows the transition of the surfaces while there is no relation between surface in the first method. We found that the this kind of method have a greater possiblities in the form making process. Using reverse, a differnt shape of transition surface would be obtained and using the populate 2D command, we were able to put the lines in different positions
rather than a evenlly divided distance.
B.3. Case Study 2.0
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Development Process
Grasshopper action
Case Study
Lunchbox Plugin
Exoskeleton Plugin
Further Research
Minimmal Surface
Surface Blending
B.4. Technique: Development
Function
Panelling
Wireframe Thickening Proposed Design Form Finding
Form Finding
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Further Research: Exoskeleton Base Geometry
Exoskeleton is a plug-in a grasshopper that turns network of lines into solid. The thickness of the structs, node sizes and whether to leave openings only one connected line could be altered in the settings.
B.4. Technique: Development
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Further Research: Minimal Surface Base Geometry
In order to search for grasshopper operations to determine the form of the design, we tried to do some research in minimal surface using kangaroo plug-in. Starting from a cube, we tried to apply the script to see what will happen, and by altering the rest length, it will alter the final outcome We then tried to examine it with a more complex geometry:
exploding the cube and removed some of its face; boolean the object with another solid. The results were quite satisfying and some interesting geometry would be generated. We found out that it is very easy to create an interesting form using kangaroo, however, it left little space for us to further develop the form. Also, the base geometry has a huge influenced to the final outcome so if we want a different
B.4. Technique: Development
outcome, we would need to start from the base geometry.
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B.4. Technique: Development
Matrix Using two surface as a base and top plane, I tried to explore the possibility by altering different values. The shapes of surfaces, the number of division, order of the lines, number of transition plane, position of the transition plane, the thickness of the pipes, the panels covering the surface and the structure that formed the surface were altered to find the best aesthetic outcome.
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Vector Diagram
1. 2.
The logic of the model in grasshoppers consists of four major steps: 1. In order to show the transition in surface, there are two surfaces created . One is the base plane and the other is the surface that being transformed. At the moment, we only used a loft surface created by our own so there is a lack of connection between the transformation. We tried several
commands in kangaroo to simulate the physical performance when a plane is being pulled but we could not get a satisfying result so we used a free form loft surface instead. 2. The second operation is to divide the surfaces and create lines between the surface.
B.4. Technique: Development
4. 3.
3. It is the most critical process of the model. The lines were evaluated and a new surface would be formed to according to the position of the lines. This surface aims to show the transition between the base plane and the top surface.
4. Triangular pannel would be applied to the surfaces and the lines would be piped in order to make them thicker.
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Composite Material
We have chosen to investigate composite material as we believed it has the most flexibility in architecture. In our definition, composite material refers to the combination in use in two or more materials. They need not to undergone chemical reaction to create a new material with different properties. Yet, those two
materials should be worked as a close system that each of the material is inter-dependent to each other. Therefore, if one of the material is missing, the whole system collapses.
B.5. Technique: Prototypes
We chose wire, rope, cardboard paper and plain paper as the starting point of our material experiment. In order to let these materials work in system, we thought of ways to connect the materials into one. We thereby punched holes on the surface and let the rope and wire embedding into it. Positioning the holes in different pattern and crossing the
ropes in different patterns, we found out that the surface would deform differently as we pulled and twisted the surface and ropes in different direction. We are particularly interested in the transformation of the surface when we pulled the ropes in different magnitude of forces. Also we were interested in the geodesics the ropes demonstrated. 46
Fabrication
1
L1
L2
2
3
4
5
6
7 In order to fabricate our model, we have exploded the surface and rejoined them as different strips. It could be then unrolled into a flat surface. We marked the score and the cut line into different colors (e.g. score = red; cut = black) according to the guide of Fab Lab and we cut it out manually using the paper cutter.
L3
During the digital modelling, we did not consider the joints between the material very well. At first, we only created holes that fits the plastic tube in the strips and we cut the marks in the tubes so that the paper can embed into the tube.
B.5. Technique: Prototypes
However, the connections did not work well so we think of another ways to connect the layers and the tube. We make a circle clips with a hole that are slightly smaller than the tubes. Glues were applied to connect the layers and the clips. Before constructing the model, we thought the little walls we made would be enough to make the model stand as the whole system is intentionally decided to be self supported: the membranes would hold the tubes in place. Nevertheless, as the tubes are positioned in different angles, they are hard to keep in a certain angle without falling, so we sticked the pin to hold the tubes in place.
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B.5. Technique: Prototypes
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Proposed Design
Concept Wyndham city is undergoing a rapid development, population is estimated to be triple in the near future. Therefore, the proposed design aims to manifest a feeling of transformation. The design also tries to correspond to the previous project ‘Seeds of Change’, emphasizing we are following the path of change ten years time later. Interactivity The design adopted an open design and is located outside the service station, so that visitors could access the gateway and spend their time there.
Inspiration Originated from the bottom layer, the top three layers show the transitions from bottom to top. None of the layer is either superior or inferior and they are equally important. The design is attempted to encourage visitor to rethink what they have gained and lost during the transformation: the lost of green space? The gain of prosperity? Longevity The irregularity in shape makes the design have longevity in its appeal. Therefore drivers would have different views everytime they pass through the design.
B.6. Technique Proposal
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Given the feedbacks from the midsemester presentation, our group did realize a lot of weaknesses in our project. First and the most important, the lack of connection between the material chosen and the design. We defined composite material as a system, which all materials are closely related, however, our design fail to achieve such goals. We found it hard to link our concept of transformation, geodesics and composite material together. Second, the design is not site responsive. We put too many focus on the concept but the model could not demonstrate the concept so it is rather disappointing. The design should be able to interact with the surrounding environment. In the next phrase, we need to consider the design with the landscape. Also, we would try to include others paramaters in the site that would affect the form.
Third, I found there was a lack of focus in the use of grasshopper. Our group have researched some other grasshoppers operation in order to enrich the design. Nonetheless, we did not investigate in depth in any of the operations, which makes our design is simple in the algorithm, yet chaotic in its appearance. Certainly there is a lot more we need to work on to implement our design in order to get a more satisfying result. In the following, our group should focus on the materaility. The design should be able to demonstrate a composite system that materials are closely bound. We will do an in depth research in tensegrity physcially and digitally. As the preliminary model was commented too dense and not elegant enough, we will try to make a better model in the final presentation.
B.7. Learning Objectives and Outcomes
Although we did not produce a satisfying model, I did learn a lot during the design process. In this phrase, we are getting familiar in the use of grasshopper, and the reverse engineering in the precedent projects help us to explore a broad range of commands in grasshoppers, we were able to create our own algorithm. The use of parametric tools also help us to produce many inspiring and unexpected outcome.
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Part C. 1 Gateway Project: Design Concept
Since the design in phrase B failed to demonstrate the properties of composite material and it is not elegant in aesthetic, we change our design completely according to the instruction given by studio leader Finn. The final design will be made of resin and fabric, which better represents the quality of composite material. Our proposal is intended to create an eye-catching landmark in Wyndham city which also creates new discourse. The main purpose of our design proposal is to demonstrate transition through the use of composite material. Concept 1: Transition Transition is the stage we believed that Wyndham city is going through, therefore the proposed design is used to encourage rethinking on the development process.
Concept 2: New Material Also, the brief advised that the design should be innovative so we use composite material as it relieves our design from frame and structure. The scope of possibly is enlarged as composite material allows us to create seamless free form surface. Therefore we were able to create a more innovative design. Concept 3: Forces To demonstrate transition in our design, we would apply forces on the surfaces. So that the deisgn looked like being punched by a giant force. Rather than focusing on the physical context, we would like to create an emotional response to the drivers. The opposing force would create a sense of tension as the surface seems like being pulled from both sides. This is trying to create a emotion of struggling as to represent each of the transition stages.
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Workflow Of Design Definition
Basic Geometry
Mesh Geometry
Set up rotation centre in the mesh New Mesh Geometry Set up points which forces acting in the mesh
Scaling
Rotation
Simulating forces
Operations to show transition
1. The very first step of the design is to determine a basic geometry for the iteration. In grasshopper, we first define a basic curve that we drew in rhino and turned it to mesh geometry. 2. By using list component, we found out specific points and set them as rotation centre and points which forces would act on the mesh. This operation helps to ensure the points where the forces were applied were remained in place even the geometries were rotated and scaled later. 3. The mesh would be scaled and rotated afterwards. The new geometry generated would then be used as the mesh for other scaling and rotation. This made an iteration where all the surfaces were evolved from the previous one.
4. The geometries generated would be connected to kangaroo to simulate the effect where opposing forces were acting on them. Magnitude of one of the forces is increasing when the surfaces is getting smaller, while the forces in the opposite direction is decreasing at the same time. The simulated result would be baked as the final digital model. However, this only gave us a rough impression on how the fabricated model would look like as the physical model was constrained by other factors. The physical model would look a bit different in reality.
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Acting Forces If you look the surface closely, you would notice that there are two opposite forces acting on the surfaces. The forces are increasing in magnitude in but in opposite directions. For say, on the largest surface, one of the forces is 3000 N while the other is 0. The opposite forces acting on the composite material give a double curvature surface, which is hard to achieve using ordinary construction method, such as frame and structure. We hope to create a dynamic feeling when the drivers pass through the gateway. Operation to control the forces in grasshopper.
Side view of the model
We want to create a effect that the forces acting on the surfaces are getting stronger and stronger, which gradually create a dramatic effect on the surface. The drivers would seem like watching a stop motion movie, and they will experience the transformation when they drive through the design.
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Fabrication Process Affecting the Forces
Our design is the combination of digital computation and handicraft. The final appearance is mainly dependent on this step. This step is particular important as it controls the forces acting on the fabrics. The physical model was expected to look a bit different from the digital model since we did not know the exact magnitude of forces in reality. The maximum cycle we can rotate is 3. So the rotation cycle was between 0 to 3. We found that the effect on the surface is not significant when the rotation amount is small, therefore we rotated more when the magnitude of forces increase.
Box 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
TOP
BOTTOM (Cycle)
0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25 1.5 1.75 2 2.125 2.25 2.375 2.5 2.625 3
3 2.625 2.50 2.375 2.25 2.125 2 1.75 1.5 1.25 1 0.75 0.5 0.25 0
The stick would be rotated according to the assigned cycle.
Before the rotation of stick, no force is applied.
Effect showing the tension where the string is pulling the surface.
Effect showing the tension where the string is pulling the surface.
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Shape
Scale
We use the leaf shape as the starting point. Because we believed that plant is one of the best example to show the process of growth, also, we would like to response to the previous project - seed of change.
Every layer has different size as each one derived from the previous layer. We use scale in grasshopper to create the effect increasing size. This is done for few reason First, the increasing in size embraced th idea of transition. Second, this increasi size also response to the site context, as th two roads is getting apart. Making it larg in size gradually can reduce the feeling it is getting apart from the drivers. Third also providies a sense of welcoming as th surface is getting larger and larger whe approaching to Wyndham .
After building the physical prototype, we found out that it is better for us to avoid having sharp angles and having long branches. Otherwise it would increase the stress on the surface. The surfaces are more likely to bend and lost its integrity. Therefore we decrease the length of the branches and reduce the sharpess of the angles.
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6 trials of the basic geometry.
Comparison between scale factor 0.9 to 0.95.
Rotation There is a little degree of rotation to make the design less plain and create an energetic emotion. We avoid have large degree of rotation as it becomes lack of order when there is too much rotation. It would distract the drivers and made the forces on the surfaces less prominent.
0.1
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0.2
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0.3
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The rotation effect of the design.
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C.2. Gateway Project: Tectonic Elements
Our proposal for the gateway project would be located in site B, between Geelong rd and prices highway.
It consists of 15 individual surface. And each of the surface would be supported by a freestanding column.
We chose site B because:
Each layer is 5m aways from another, so the entire proposal would occupied 70m in length. Therefore the drivers would passthrough it side by side around 3 seconds.
- Drivers from both sides could experience the design - It is easy to access from the service station. People can spend their time around the design - Its magnificent size could be exemplfied by the surrounding service station.
It is quite massive comparing to the surrounding context because we tried to deliver a strong visual impact to the drivers. They would know that they will arrive Wyndham shortly when they saw this design.
Assembly The assembly part is rather simple. The resin and the fabric form a close system in harmony, in order to make less disturbance to the seamless surface, we would like to make the support part as simple as possible. The surfaces would be attached to a free standing column and the column would be connected to the mass concrete. It is expected that a large magnitude of wind load would be experienced, therefore it is important that the joint could help resisting the strong force and transfer the load to the ground. A pile footing might be needed if the force is too large for the mass concrete.
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Sequence of construction
The erection of the design should be rather simple, as all the layers are separated, they could be considered as individual items therefore they can be constructed, fabricated or erected in different stages according to the planning. Since the surfaces needed to be prefabricated, the transportation would be the major concern as the layers are quite massive. The surface itself is a singular seamless object, so it does not involve any asseembly of the surface. Rather, the main concern is the connection between the columns and the surface. The columns should be well attatched to the mass concrete as there might be a massive wind load acting on the surface. Therefore the joints need to be rigid enough to withstand the massive forces.
1. The first step involve prefabricating composite layers inside factory. It is bette prefabricate the composite surface beca it could give a better quality control. Det of the surface could have a better finish the prefabrication process would not aff by weather and the site.
2. The second step involves drilling of site for concrete pouring. This is needed to make the mass concrete footings to wh the columns are attached. As massive w load would be asserted to the surface, important to have a deep footing to ens the stability of the structure.
3. The third step is to transport the prefabricated composite layers to the site.
4. The forth step is to lift up the columns that the layers would connect. The steel columns would be connected to the mass concrete pile underneath. After the columns are installed, the layers could then be attached to the columns.
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Final Fabrication Process First Attempt
The aim of the first attempt is to see how the fabric would look like when resin is applied to them. We simply made the box out of cardboard paper as a form work to hold the surface so that there would not be any movemnet when the resin is drying.
The result of the first attempt is not so satisfactory as the composite surface did not really give us the effect we want. The increaing in forces is not significant.
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Second Attempt
Since the first attempt is not so satisfactory, we made the physical model again with the aid of laser cutter. The layout of the surface and the box was first sent to fab lab or laser cutting. The holes where the sticks would be placed were also cut out at first. This is aimed to ensure the wire could drag the surface perpendicularly.
Laser cut surface template
Laser cut box template
1. A faric was prepared for making one layer of the design.
2. A laser-cut surface was placed on top of the fabric and the shape would be traced. The triangles represneted the fored points and the centre point of rotation.
3. Two needles would be pined to the fabric for marking the forced point.
4. A laser-cut box is made as to hold the fabric during resin pouring. The wooden sticks were used to control the forces acting on the fabric. 72
5. The marked fabric would be first placed at the bottom, the wires were used to make sure the fabric was in the correct place so that the wire would stretch the points perpendicularly.
6. The fabric would be attached to the boxes according to the boundaries marked during step 5.
7. A wire was attached to the surface. The marked point would be used to ensure the wire is attaching on the right spot.
8. The stick would be rotated according to the assigned cycle.
9. The image shows the effect on the fabric when the sticks are rotated.
10. Resin was poured on the fabric. More layer of resin would be poured once the surface resin was set.
11. The composite was cut from the fabric and it would be attached to columns later on.
12. The surface would then be attached to the columns.
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C.3. Gateway Project: Final Model Scale 1: 300
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Scale 1:50
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Scale 1:50
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Rendering of digital model
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Rendering of digital model
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Rendering of digital model
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Rendering of digital model
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C.4. Learning Outcome
Conclusion Although our team did not perform well in the final presentation, the feedbacks given are still very encouraging and useful for the further development. First, the concept and the way we produced the model interested the juries the most, however, we spent a certain amount of time talking about our precedent on composite material, which made the presentation focus less about the fabrication process. Second, we used three ways to demonstrate the transition in the design: scale, rotation and the acting forces. We should have put our focus on the forces that determine the final shape of the surfaces rather than talking about the analogy of leaves which determines the basic shape. Before the studio, architecture to me is the artificial enclosure which human works and lives. The project appeared to me more like a sculpture rather than architecture. However, it does enlarge my definition about architecture throughout the semester. It is neither a dwelling or workplace. Rather, it is a road art to be seen by the drivers when they drive through Wyndham city. The major function of this design project is to deliver messages and
encourage discussion, which we seldom pay enough attention to. We have successfully incorporate computation in the design process. The use of computation is less dominant in the final phrase (part C) because we made some significant changes in our design. After confirming the central idea of the design (Transition and composite material), we used grasshopper to design the basic shape of the transition. After making prototypes, we refine the basic shape in the grasshopper to make it have greater resistant to bending. Also, matrixes are made to determine the best factor for scaling and rotating. The following design processes are less relevant to computation. Although we used kangaroo plug-in in grasshopper to determine the final shape by simulating forces acting on the surface. The physical outcome is quite different to the simulation because the shape of the surfaces may vary during the fabrication process.
Response to learning objective: At the end of the studio, I am able to identify the advantages and disadvantages using computational techniques. It is easier to generate design possibilities by varying the factors. However, the lack of knowledge in grasshopper somehow limited my ability to design a more innovative design. Since I was not familiar with the software in the beginning, I found it hard to express my concept and idea because I was not able to make several operations in grasshopper. Grasshopper allows us to generate an interesting design very easily, yet, it might be a temptation to us to simply adopt the generated design. This will make our argument less persuasive as the generated design always lack a solid reason behind if we did not have a well-thought at the starting point. This always result in the lack of connection between different progress, which we have been faced in the previous phrase.
Parametric design to me is to produce a rational design logically. Throughout the entire studio, we are always reminded that we should have a legit reason for every decision we made. Yet, I found this particular hard for me. Sometimes the decisions were made solely because of aesthetic beauty, which were not strong enough to persuade the studio leaders. Therefore our team always need to go to the previous steps to refine and rethink a solid argument for the next steps.
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Model Outcome: The physical model was quite disappointing as it did not live up to our expectation. The digital model reflects our concept much better than the physical model we presented in the final presentation. This is due to several reasons. First, the model in kangaroo is a mesh, therefore the fabric in the physical model might not behave as the simulation in kangaroo. In reality, the opposing forces on the fabric seems to cancel out each other and made the effect less obvious than we anticipated. More detail information of the fabrics need to enter to kangaroo plugin if we want a more realistic simulation. Second, the settings for the resin to dry has a huge influence on the final outcome. We made boxes to let the fabric to be attached in the middle of the box, the resin were then poured on the surface of the fabric. We have to ensure the boxes would remain its shape, because a little distortion of the box would make the outcome different than expected.
Third, since the fabric is elastic, when w attached it to the box, we can hardly ensu all the fabrics are stretched in the sam degree, which will affect their reaction the forces applied. For a better result, w might need to use a different mechanism f fabrication. Rather than making differe boxes to pour the resin, we could make single box but pour the resin fifteen time This can ensure all the structure integrity the box if it is made by a stronger mater such as plastic.
Forth, by studying Tom Wiscombe use composite material, I believe that the are rooms for improvement. Rather tha use a simple fabric, we might paint pater generated in kangaroo to the surface befo pouring the resin.
For example, some fractal geometry cou be painted to the surface so that peop can have different views no matter th viewing distance is. Other than placi ornaments in the fabric, solar panels cou be integrated in the composite system shown in many of Tom Wiscombe’s work The energy generated could be used f the lightings of the site which we did n consider.
Fifth, other than having the layers in line, there might be more innovative approaches to make it look much more interesting and appealing. Rather than using columns to support the surface, we could use a frame structure and use cables to attach the surface as shown in the figure. The surfaces need not to hold rigidly, so they can interact with the wind passes through. Sixth, other than using steel columns, a glass columns could be used instead if possible. This can make the surface stand out rather than disturbed by the columns. Moreover, there could be some decorations inside the glass columns, such as some plants, or crafted works. This gives the design a much more interesting appearance for those visit the gateway in close distance.
A sketch of surfaces supported by frames
Thermo-strut, 2009. Tom Wiscombe. Solar thermal system becoming ornamental tracery. This gives us some insight on the future development of our design. This makes the design look less plain and boring.
Idea of using glass columns to support the surfaces. 94
Reference
Images http://www.salk.edu/about/architecture.html http://ibaraki-kasugaoka-church.jp/gallery.html http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458 http://www.archello.com/en/project/west-fest-pavilion http://www.dezeen.com/2007/11/29/nordpark-cable-railway-by-zaha-hadid-architects/ http://inhabitat.com/shigeru-bans-incredible-cardboard-cathedral-in-christchurchcomplete/christchurch-cardboard-cathedral-shigeru-ban-3-2/ http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fgrLVxwp24I/UeUJQLDX2SI/AAAAAAAAAoI/qszKEJB1Rmc/ s1600/pouring+resin.jpg http://www.rajaha.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Plant-growth-hormones.jpg http://learningtoteachscience.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/31.gif http://www.vibroflotation-ng.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Driven-PrecastConcrete-Piling.jpg http://pre.cloudfront.goodinc.com/posts/full_1357250224dshape.jpg http://www.impactgroup.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/Column-Lifting-208-Large588x784.jpg http://img03.taobaocdn.com/bao/uploaded/i3/T1iX_0XjVgXXXHY6Q8_071240.jpg http://matsysdesign.com/category/projects/sg2012-gridshell/ http://www.spatialagency.net/2009/08/24/buckminsterfuller_2-960x640.jpg http://www.wired.com/images/article/magazine/1607/pl_arts1_f.jpg http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Arts/Arts_/Pictures/2009/9/22/1253636076667/ Buckminster-Fullers-geode-001.jpg http://atuxedocat.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/canton-tower.jpg http://cdn.gaopeng.com/20/59/1330496425920.jpg http://ad009cdnb.archdaily.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/1290020731-img8596amedlogo.jpg
Text Burry, Mark (2011). Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming (Chichester: Wiley) pp.8-71 Fleischmann, M., Knippers, J., Lienhard, J., Menges, A. and Schleicher, S. (2012), Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in Computational Design Processes. Archit Design, 82: 44–51. doi: 10.1002/ad.1378 Gramazio, F., Kohler, M. and Oesterle, S. (2010), Encoding Material. Archit Design, 80: 108–115. doi: 10.1002/ad.1114 Peters, Brady. (2013) Computation Works: The building of algorithmic thought. Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 08-15. Peters, Brady. (2013) Realising the Architectural Intent: Computation at Herzog & De Meuron. Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 56-61. [6] [7] http://www.bfi.org/?q=node/106 [8] [9] [10] http://www.archdaily.com/89849/canton-tower-information-basedarchitecture/
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Week 1 Grasshopper Tutorial
1.2
1.31
1.32
Appendix - Algorithm Exploration
1.33
1.34
1.35
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Week 2 Grasshopper Tutorial
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.2 Vector defining direction, magnitude, scaling, ratio and rotation: Vector can be added directly using addition. 2.3 Mesh Geometry Loft (infinite curve) vs mesh (shortest distance) Use of quad corner, point list, point, construct mesh. 2.4 Brep - boundary representation.
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Week 3 Grasshopper Tutorial
3.1
3.2
3.1 Parametric concept Align, draw icon, edit>group } help organizing the data.
3.2 Point, list and data matching Three rules to sort the list: 1. shortest list 2. longest list - last three are use for same origin 3. Cross reference - all possible choice
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1. Create rectangular grid 2. Construct a point 3. Distance between attractor points and grids point as radius of circle 4. Divide the distance if it is too big for the radius 5. Extrude.
Week 4 - Attractor Point
1. Create rectangular grid 2. Image samplier, use filter to set to brightness 3. Use the points to create circle
Week 5 - Image sampler
Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches
The triangulation could be done using relative item or lunch box plug in. It is useful as the triangle on the surface could be form a strip and unrolled into flat surface. It helps to fabricate model with complex or curve geometry.
Week 6 - Triangulation
The fractal pattern is done using cluster component. This operation is quite interesting as it can be used to constrcut complex geometry by using a series of cluster component.
Week 7 - Fractal
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Week 4 Grasshopper Tutorial
4.1
4.2
4.3
Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches
4.4
4.5
4.6
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Week 4 Grasshopper Tutorial
4.1 Creating List Domain: space defined by two numeric extremes(min-max) floor and ceiling. 4.2 Spiraling The use of point polar to define a point. 4.3 Phyllotaxis and Expressions Boolean Toggle: only true or false. Use of panel: multiple text 4.4 Exploring surface geometry Params - container, help to things How to find a point on the surface? Using evaluate surface.Display>preview plan radius. MD slider - can move XY at the same time, set xy domain. Or Add Params> geometry>surface> right click (reset param) 4.5 Field Fundamental Use of point charge, line charge and merge field. Direction display - color Tensor display - arrow 4.6 Expression
Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches
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Week 5 Grasshopper Tutorial
5.1
5.2
5.3
Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches
5.4
5.1 Defining Data Tree condition Don’t flatten (because it removes all levels of data treee resulting in a single list) and don’t do path mapper. 5.2 Navigating Data Structures 5.3 Tree statistic and visualization Tree statistic tells how many things in each branch. Everything is common can get rid of using simplifying tree 5.4 Tree Demension
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