The Ring Unit

THE RING UNIT

developed by H. Blø M.K. Dambe L. Dong E.O. Dybdahl M. Koslowski M.Schmidt

EiT_SS2018

PAGE OF CONTENTS

1

ENERGY 11

Efficiency calculations

SLEEPING MODULES 13 14

How can a sleeping unit be arranged?

Comparison between different typologies

COMMON SPACE INTRODUCTION 02

15 16

Flexible common space Comparison between different typologies

Understanding the cabin and its typology

KITCHEN MODULES THE RING UNIT 03

17 18

What are the requirements of modular units today?

SAUNA MODULES

STACKING THE MODULES 05 06

Parameters of stacking Different analyses

19 20

ELEMENTS 07 08

What is needed in a kitchen?

Different typologies

Joints Dimensions and modularity

A cabin with a sauna Comparison between different typologies

CONCLUSION 21

What is the result?

the ring unit UNDERSTANDING THE CABIN AND ITS TYPOLOGY A cabin is inherent to the Norwegian culture.

Innumerable summer, Easter, and winter holidays are spent there. Endless stories can be told about hiking, skiing, fishing, and other adventures. Go there by yourself, take a friend, or even bring your whole family.

In any case, a cabin plays a big role in the life of every Norwegian.

Stepping back to the vague concept of a spatial unit, a cabin still needs to serve specific needs. On the other hand, this stepping back allows to experiment with the idea of a cabin. How much space makes a cabin “koselig”? How much light do you need in a cabin? How would you access a cabin? There are many points to discuss when trying to rethink the concept of a cabin.

Some are quite apparent, others are more hidden.

In this project we came up with various aspects about a cabin that were worthwhile exploring. Of these, the idea of a ring unit seemed most promising especially regarding the uniqueness of the concept. While the

idea of micro-spaces is fairly old, the idea of modular living units where each serves one specific function is new. In the following we will describe the individual aspects of this concept in more detail. That is, looking into what a sleeping unit requires, what defines a common space as comfortable, what must be included in the kitchen unit, and what the sanitary and the sauna units require. Thereafter, an evaluation will be presented before the tale of “a cabin a day” gets told.

3

the ring unit THE RING UNIT

The concept of modularity introduces the possibility for growth and change. Furthermore, the two parameters are often the main reason for taking down certain buildings that cannot adapt to the rapid changes of our society. From the viewpoint of future living, where flexibility plays an important role, a modular system that is fast to produce, can fit to the needs of the time as well change in the dimensions, is an urgent need.

Since many modular housing systems in built or theoretical form are out there and available since the 60s, one has to look carefully and analyse the qualities as well as downsides of them. A rather well-known example of modular housing systems was developed (only in theory) by Cedric Price between 1963 and 1967.

While the system proposed in the project The Potteries Thinkbelt goes well in depth on how it can spread in space, an important aspect has been let out. How relevant is the dimension of one of the modules? Does it need to be as big as the minimum living space as it has been done in the reference project? Or can it be

reduced to a size of a single function?

The group explored a system where a simple, prefabricated CLT ring would account for a single function. Such approach allows to strongly reduce the starting dimensions of the building as well it enables full customization of the functions, free possibilities of growth or shrinkage and, most importantly, an easy prefabrication process.

5

the ring unit STACKING THE MODULES

Everyone knows about LEGO, right? So, why not apply this principle to actual built structures, in our case a cabin? As simple as that... Well, not too simple! What do we want to stack together? And how?

While the LEGO principle would generally work with a multitude of different shapes, we decided to go for short rectangular ones. In our case, the concept relies on three different sizes of the rings that can be stacked together in any order, always depending on how the lucky cabin-owner wants to have the overall shape. The ring units can form a simple cube when they are of the same size, but they can also be of all different sizes which gives a quite deconstructive appearance. In the latter case, one box is always bigger than the other, so that the remaining space on one of the connecting sides can either be glazed or be wooden.

When it comes to the question what is to be included in each ring, the answer would be: everything and nothing.

This is due to the fact that each ring is supposed to

fulfil one function, so that in the end different rings can be put together for customised uses. While some people might be satisfied with only a place to sleep, others also want to be able to cook, relax, and enjoy a warm sauna. The set-up possibilities are quite diverse and customisable with this approach. A predefined set of sizes also allows more effective re-uses of single parts which increases the environmental friendliness of the cabin.

What’s more, the openings of each ring can be either glazed or wooden. We believe that large windows allow a greater connection between the resident and the surroundings. Speaking of connections, there are various ways of connecting (in a technical way) the modules with each other, which are explained in the next chapter.

ANALYSE 1

ANALYSE 2

7

the ring unit JOINING THE PARTS

We wanted the cabin to be an all-wood construction, to be able to be taken apart and reused easily. Therefore, we have looked into using different joints for the assembling of the units.

Together with Atle, we found that the Dovetail joint could be a good option. The joining is done by interlocking pins and corresponding “tails� cut in the end pieces. The dovetail is strong because of the way the tails and pins are trapezoidal shaped. This makes it difficult to pull the joint apart, and practically impossible when glue is added, requiring no mechanical fasteners.

The Dovetail is typically used for joining corners. Thus, it is suitable for the joining of the CLT-plates in each module. In order to put all the modules together, another technique is required to hold the modules in place. For this, variations of the dovetail joints might be used, such as a sliding dovetail or the secret mitred dovetail, where the ends of the plates are hidden from both outside faces.

the ring unit DIMENSIONS AND MODULARITY The more space, the better! But how much space do you really need, and how much space is pure luxury?

This was the basis for our experimentation with the dimensions of the ring units.

the four final plate types are of the sizes: 1.20m x 1.20m, 1.20m x 2.40m, 1.20m x 3.60m, and 1.20m x 4.80m. Each ring is then to be combined with the next one via the previously presented dovetail joints.

The first point to be covered here is the width of the ring unit. We found that 1.20m is the width that is small enough to experiment with space, and large enough for including various types of furniture and equipment. Be it a bed, a kitchen shelf, a sitting unit, storage, or a stove – all that fits well into the width of 1.20m. And even a sanitary unit and a sauna can be included given such measurements.

Overall, the smallest ring is a cube of the dimensions 1.20m x 1.20m x 1.20m, whereas the largest is 4.80m x 4.80m x 1.20m. Between those two, various size-combinations are possible, all considering a height of either 2.40m, 3.60m, or 4.80m.

But what about the length and height of each module?

To ensure flexibility for stacking the modules, we defined four different sizes for each plate, of which always two of max. 2 types can be combined to a ring, thus ending up in a rectangular ring. In order to increase the ease of cutting and measurement, we defined the length of each plate to be x * 1.20m. Hence,

When it comes to the modularity of the units, there are numerous possibilities for stacking together the ring units. One limitation, however, that we set is to always ensure a minimum overlap of 1.20m between two units.

Doing so allows for keeping a hallway that can either lead through the whole combination of units or can be disrupted for the combination of three or more combined units. Either way, a certain movement is created that reflects the dynamics of the concept.

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11

the ring unit A PERSPECTIVE ON ENERGY

As one can see in there is a comparison of the biggest unit (the left one) and the smallest unit (the right one) with their U-values. The result shows that the double wall case has halved U-value in respect of the single wall´s one, so a lot of energy can be saved. Considering the amount of energy (heat) consumption, which ranges from 60 to 90 kWh/(m²*y) can be saved, the big unit turns out to save more amount of energy, but in both cases around 20% of energy is saved. In the simulation we assumed the room temperature at 20°C and the ambient temperature at 5°C, and the air flow rate being around 7 [1/h]. We made these considerations under the premise of an annual average temperature. This would have to be changed to also examine minima and maxima.

Moreover, this assumption is not suitable for the design of comfort since the customer does not spend all year in the cabin. In order to have more accurate results, more local data is required. In this way economic aspects can be included as well. In the end,

the graphs give only qualitative results that should not be confused with absolute ones. A problem that we face with double wall insulation is that it requires more materials, so it will impact on the price of the customers, which is around double of using the single wall.

LARGE MUDULE

SMALL MUDULE

13

the ring unit SLEEPING MODULES

The sleeping unit is one of the core essentials in the ring unit. The ring unit becomes lacking without the sleeping module to it. It has been an important focus for us to create good sleeping arrangements. We want to use the space which is available, and not compromise on the comfort part. The sleeping solutions should be comfortable and good, since you are travelling to the cabin to relax. With poor possibilities for sleeping, the relaxation experience will be reduced.

We have designed sleeping units with different volumes since customers have different wishes and needs for this. The smallest one is designed for individuals or couples, with possibilities of bringing friends. The larger one is designed for housing a small family. In this one, we have also incorporated a multipurpose room. This can for example be used as storage, cleaning area or sauna.

The

focus

on

having

many

different

storing

possibilities, has also been a large part of the systemizing of these units. All of them have storage arrangements underneath the bed, and shelves under the ceiling. The large one also has the entire inner wall designed as a shelf, where it is possible to store anything from clothes and books. We have also looked into the possibility of transforming the ladder in the unit into a storage system. This maximizes its purpose and use.

TYPE_S01

TYPE_S02

TYPE_S03

Sleeping unit of 3.6mx3.6mx1.2m. This units contains a sleeping department containing two larger beds and different possibnilit for storage.

Sleeping unit which is 4.8mx3.6mx1.2m. This unit contains three standarized bed solutions, storage space and a multi purpose room.

Sleeping unit of 3.6x2.4x1.2m.

Such module consists of the ring and freely movable / transformable furniture that follows the same ring structural idea.

PROS -two comfortable beds -many storage possibilites.

-effective sleeping solution -place for small family, couple.

-the energy efficiency CONS -lack of privacy in family situation.

-better storage soultions -more innovative soultions

PROS -three beds without stacking -mutlipurpose room -uses deadspace over the hallway.

-families and childerns room.

-the energy efficiency CONS -ineffective space solution -including the storage room -not such flexible solution

PROS -minimum dimensions -flexible / transformable -module can change its function -low cost CONS -clients might not want that much of flexibility

15

the ring unit COMMON SPACE

The common space module offers a space to sit down and relax with friends and family after a long day spent outside. The module might be seen unnecessary for those who only use the cabin as a place to find shelter, such as hikers or hunters. However, for families and groups of friends that want a more comfortable cabin experience, the common space module is central.

The common space module comes in three different sizes and layouts, to suit different needs that people might have. They can all easily be combined with the other modules. Two of the modules include a built-in sofa with space for either a retractable sofa table, drawers for storage, or a module to extend the sofa so that it can be used as an extra space for sleeping, fitting two people. The module can be fitted with a glazed wall, to let daylight in and frame the hopefully scenic view.

The common space module should be combined with a kitchen unit, to provide heating to the space.

TYPE_CS01

TYPE_CS02

TYPE_CS03

Living space of 1.2x2.4m, the smallest unit. Includes a built in shelf system for storage and a sofa with a rectractable sofa table.

Living space of 1.2x3.6m.

Includes more built in space for seating, both with rectractable furniture such as sofa table and a bed.

Living space of 1.2x2.4m.

Includes movable furniture that can be arranged and rearranged easily.

PROS - compact space - easily combined with other units - suitable for couples and smaller groups CONS -might be too small for some -could be more flexible, but this is difficult in such a limited space

PROS - flexible space - mixed functions with the possibility for an extra sleeping space - suitable for bigger groups CONS -larger unit, so more expensive - The narrow module still makes the layout quite fixed.

PROS -compact space, but still fexible -the layout can change easily, to suit the ever changing needs of the client CONS -less effective space solution -people might not want this much flexibility

17

the ring unit KITCHEN MODULE

The kitchen module is essential to even the most basic of cabins. This is where the stove is located, that provides heating to the cabin. The reason it is a part of the kitchen module is the possibility to use it as a cooking stove, that does not depend on electricity. The kitchen module does not include an electric system, but this can be added according to the wish of the customer.

The kitchen module comes in three different sizes and layouts, to suit different needs that people might have.

The smallest module includes only the basics needed for cooking and are more suitable for shorter stays. For those that want to stay for longer, it might be better to have a larger unit with more storage space, to be able to store the food. A fridge is also necessary for longer stays, which can be fitted, either running on gas or electricity.

When combining the kitchen unit with a sleeping unit, one gets a cabin that fulfils the most basic needs of the

cabin owner. For a more comfortable cabin, other modules can be added as well such as a sanitary module.

TYPE_K01

TYPE_K02

Kitchen module of 1.2x2.4m.

Includes the basics: a cooking stove, kitchen counter, sink and shelves for storage.

Kitchen module of 1.2x3.6m.

Includes a cooking stove, more counter space, a sink, shelves for storage and seating.

Kitchen module of 1.2x2.4m.

Includes counter space and storage space that can be arranged and rearranged easily.

PROS - compact space that fits all the basic needs for cooking - suitable for couples and smaller groups CONS - not really suitable for long stays, as the storage space is limited - no space for seating

PROS - more spacius, thus it is more suitable for longer stays - seating space - suitable for bigger groups

PROS -compact space, but still flexible -the layout can change easily, to suit the ever changing needs of the client CONS -people might not want so much flexibility in a kitchen - the sink and oven still fixed

CONS -the cooking is still done on a cooking stove, which might seem inconvenient for some

TYPE_K03

19

the ring unit SAUNA / SANITARY MODULE

The sauna unit is a contribution to the ring unit. The thought on making this unit came from the discussion we had with Atle. Saunas are a big part of a mountain cabin, and to some extent also of a seaside or forest cabin.

To have the ability to add a sauna to the ring unit is an extra luxury that we wish to provide for the buyers. The two design solutions presented here are based on making the saunas fit in limited spaces. Although access to a sauna is a luxury, we want the sauna itself to be down-to-earth and simple in its design. The two solutions are quite similar in how they are organized, with the biggest one having more space. Neither of them is designed to fit a big amount of people. They focus more on intimacy and privacy.

We also wanted to allow for multipurpose use of the rooms. As a result, we include the possibility for drying clothes and other objects under the ceiling of the sauna. The sauna does not have any extra hallway

space like most of the other units. Therefore, it has to be directly connected to one of the other units. It will, therefore, become the end space for any unit. You cannot move thru the sauna and on to another room.

The sauna unit can also provide heat to the rest of the cabin, with it having hotter surfaces than the rest of the units. We think that the possibility to add a sauna to your cabin is something that a lot of customers would want to have. The sauna can also be used as a private zone for cleaning yourself since our solutions have not taken shower possibilities into account.

TYPE_SA01

TYPE_SA02

TYPE_SA03

Small sauna unit with the sizes of 1.2mx1.2mx2.4m. Seating options in different heights with drying possibilites on top.

Medium sauna unit with the sizes 2.4mx1.2mx2.4m. Seating options on larger spaces with drying possibilites on top.

Small sauna unit with the sizes of 1.2mx1.2mx2.4m. The seating is created with modular wooden boxes that can be easily rearranged.

PROS -Compact sauna for small spaces -Contribut with heat to cabin - Good drying soultions - Induvidual or couples -the energy efficiency CONS -crowded -more innovative soultions - possibilites in the height

PROS -Compact but spacial.

-Fit up to three people -Social sauna -Small group of people -the energy efficiency CONS -more storage space -better space ussage -old fahsioned

PROS -flexible -maximal compactness -furniture can be used also in the rest of the cabin -the seating can be repuroused CONS -is it stable?

-people might not want that much of flexibility

21

the ring unit EVALUATION OF THE RING UNIT

After the week’s work on the ring unit idea, certain qualities of the idea as well as issues that still would have to be solved became clear. The group had chosen to focus on the aspects of design and energy efficiency which together with the knowledge of Snekkeriet on wooden joints, manufacturing, and transportation would form a complete product. Therefore, the current stage of the project can be looked upon and evaluated from the viewpoint of concept development.

As one of the biggest advantages of the ring unit system for cabins counts the possibility of space reduction and optimization. The chosen system allows to reduce the first tested 10 m² spatial layouts to dimensions of 6-7 m² while at the same time keeping the functions and comfort. Furthermore, the flexibility of adding/removing rings allows to freely adapt the space to the user's needs. Such freedom in spatial changes might reduce the need of demolishing buildings in future which otherwise would not be adaptable to different needs or functions, all of this resulting in more sustainable development when looked at in a long-term perspective.

Apart from the advantages, the ring unit still has aspects that need to be improved or optimized. One of such is developing a clearer understanding of the links between the units. What easy-to-use solutions can be implemented? Also, what happens with the space in between the unit rings? While the intention of the group was to stack the modules in line to each other, a different possible approach can be tested with leaving them in certain distances from each other, so increasing the experience and qualities of outdoor-indoor space mixture.

To wrap up, one can say that the ring unit is a concept of modular space optimization where the user can personalize the product as time unfolds despite the popular understanding of prefabricated buildings not fitting the specific needs of different clients. It is an experimental approach to the topic of micro-housing in a country such as Norway, where the spatial expansion of one's property is not an issue. The ring unit explores the topic of cabin and proposes a more flexible solution instead of the traditional fix-built one.

First published as part of NTNU Experts in Teamwork course 2018 ‘Future of Wood’ by team ‘Arbor’

Text Team ‘Arbor’

Trondheim, Norway 2 February 2018

Text editor Maximilian Koslowski

Arbor team work catalogue Elisabeth Oldervik Dybdahl Håvard Blø Lin Dong Marija Katrina Dambe Maximilian Koslowski Michelle Schmidt

Illustrations and graphic design Marija Katrina Dambe

Copyright © 2018 team Arbor, Trondheim All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any other information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from all of the team ‘Arbor’. Any built form of the ideas discussed or showed in this publication are allowed to be done only by any of the team ‘Arbor’ members.

Typeset in Akkurat Light and Akkurat Bold Energy Calculations Lin Dong Scale models Elisabeth Oldervik Dybdahl Lin Dong Michelle Schmidt Course supervision Pasi Aalto Aasmund Bunkholt