DATA ATLAS The Landscape of Huddersfield. Initial Analysis and Explorations.
Patrick Drewello Thesis Studio Design Project, Bachelor of Architecture Manchester School of Architecture 2011
What is the landscape of huddersfield?
View of Huddersfield
Data Atlas Contents Page
Contents Page Introduction...................................................................................................................................4 the Data De’rive............................................................................................................................8
[Agenda] [Methodology] [the De’rive: Practice, Recording, Translation, Configuration]
Spatial Justice: Essen Workshop..............................................................................................26
[Zollverein] [Re-Pott: True Nationalisation, a Regional Identity]
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Data Atlas Introduction
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Introduction At the outset of the academic year the Studio Unit undertook a series of readings and presentations into the topic of Utopia, Systems and Mapping. These test would drive the direction and form agendas for the explorations undertaken within the studio design project. The following illustrate two key presentations made on; Credic Price ‘s Fun Palace and Cumbernauld. These two test have shaped the agenda of this project in two distinct aspects. Firstly, the systems approach of the Fun Palace has influenced the programmatic and organisational strategies of the studio project. Secondly, the new model town direction of Cumbernauld and others, have strongly influenced the content and direction of the final proposal.
Data Atlas Introduction
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The beginnings of the fun palace From Agit-Prop to Free Space: The Architecture of Cedric Price Stanley matthews
The People’s theatre “a new art of living, instead of escaping from living into rather dreary art”
Anti-building And the Anti-architect
Cybernetics/game theory “Technology is the answer, but what is the question”
THE FUN PALACE Addressing the shortcomings of the British educational system
Structure
Leisure/work New patterns of living
approval
The Architecture of fun
The fun palace
Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens
“These are not so much projects but generic ideas about new ways of making environments responsive to the needs of their users”
fig. 1 slides from ‘the beginnings of fun palace’ presentation
Data Atlas Introduction
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Cumbernauld Tomorrow’s Town Today, lucy bullivant from Happy: Cities & Happiness in Post-War Europe, cor wagenaar
Britain’s Industrial showplace
A Social condenser
Mary gilliat “too much monotone, too much grey”
“an exemplary model of community architecture”
Alastair borthwick
Range of facilities
“the children I saw were having a whale of a time”
megastructure
demise
Artificial landscape
Return to The high density city
fig. 2 slides from ‘Cumbernauld’ presentation
The move away from centralised visions of C20th
Data Atlas Introduction
The Studio Agenda The introduction to new town models and model villages within the thematic of Utopia has strongly influenced the thematic drivers of the studio project. The following is an abstract from David Harvey, who hints at the opportunities and potential of Utopia as a renewed driver for the betterment of architecture and urbanism: “The immediate task to be debated about the current round of opportunities to engage in a more planned production of space is how to contemplate it as one revolutionary moment in the path towards more systematic socio-ecological changes. The questions to be posed are of two sorts. First, to gain some sense of the link between the production of space as one of our specific species powers and the other elements of competition, collaboration, diversification, temporal reorderings and the transformations of environment. The second is to pull together some consensus around the pattern of all of these shifts in relationship to some radically different alternative in terms of social and environmental relations and the long-term prospects for life-chances for all. This is the fundamental debate that must now occur if the chance for alternatives is not to be lost in the future as it has so often been stymied in the past.� - David Harvey, Megacities Lecture 4
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
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The Data De’rive: Agenda The unit research agenda is a hybridisation of the member’s individual research trajectories and architectural polemics. The convergent polarities of our collective; establishes a research scope far more competent to deal with the complexities of contemporary urbanity. _Agenda_ We proposed to study urbanity and thereby explore the mechanic infrastructure which permits realise utopian visions, machines within the metabolic system of the city, mechanic ecologies of utopia, the energies of the artificial within your buildings/city.
Sensity project. http://www.stanza.co.uk/sensity/index.html
_Goal_ Our goal is to map the systems of; artificial, synthetic, mechanic, infrastructural, ancillary, cyborgs, bionic. _Mechanism_ Visual senses are out, we are mapping the invisible, fundamentally we will employ technologies which enhance, hybridise, abstract, obscure our inherent senses - allowing us to tap into the properties of urbanity. We rely on the spectrograph as recorder of our travels. This is not to say we will at first understand our new senses, nor will we be able to ‘on-the-fly’ comprehend the raw data collected, we will process_recompose_compile_analyse. _Unit_of_Measure_ At this stage this remains unclear, we are measuring the artificial properties of urbanity. _Urban_Perspective_ We perceive the city to comprise of an evolving and ever changing composition of sounds that inundates the everyday. We argue machines are fundamental to the urban fabric, technologies are the closest aspect of human invention which has thus far proved to be the most promising in allowing us to realise our own futures (or utopia). _Future_development_ Map evolution of machines within the city. How many machines are required to support one inhabitant of urbanity, does technology impose unseen mechanisms of control upon our planning systems. We will develop our logics to ‘encode, decode and recode’ the data.
Matrix used for valuation of sound recordings. http://www. ted.com/talks/lang/eng/julian_ treasure_the_4_ways_sound_ affects_us.html
_Practical_objectives_ Accordingly, the sounds of the ‘Mechanic Life of the City’ present itself as hidden city noise but actually contribute to the composition of the city space. Through unveiling these hidden sounds via sensory data collation we aim to translate and transform this information into innovative maps creating an artistic audio acoustic installation. This aims to be an artistic representation expressing the ‘Mechanic life of the City’ and the vibration of buildings.
Site Visit: Huddersfield At initial outset the group undertook a trip to Huddersfield to record and capture data for later processing
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
Grid Coordinates The OS Map of Huddersfield was used along with the OS Grid to divide and index Huddersfield into a grid of specific points which were used to define data collection points.
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fig. 1 grid references
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
GPS Recorded Route The routes taken to reach each respective coordinate were recorded via a GPS device. The following illustrates 2 days of data collection
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
360 Panorama At each grid point, using a tripod set at the same height each time, we took 360 degree panorama photos of the views from each grid coordinate.
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
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Spectral Analysis Sound recording devices and Dbz meters were used to record a 30 second clip at each coordinate. This data was analysed, equalised and represented within the illustrated graphs.
fig. 1 composite graph
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
9x9 Pixel Panorama The panorama were processed and reduced to a pixel count of 9x9 pixels. This was to illustrate the average colours and intensities within each grid coordinate.
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
Threshold Ideograms The use of ideograms allowed the conversion of the panoramas into indications of typologies of thresholds for each grid coordinate.
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
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Threshold Proximity Overlaying a gradient template we converted the panorama into a diagrammatic representation of proximity, threshold and proximity.
fig. 1 gradient template used
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
Materiality Matrix Furthermore this gradient template was used to capture the materiality of each proximity.
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Soundscape Model The physical graphology of the processed data sets presented in a unified model to demonstrate conclusions
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
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fig. 1 CAD drawings for laser cutter
Physical Model: Soundscape The soundscape model was an attempt to convert the convert the processed data sets captured during the data de’rive in a holistic model which would demonstrate the properties of differing sound typologies captured. The aim was to establish a link between the metric data captured and the physical grid coordinates of Huddersfield, thereby relating the data within the physical context. The model was produced via laser cutting a series of 2D planes of a 3D graph which illustrated the values of the sound recordings we had converted. (see next page for tabulated data set).
fig. 2 side view of model
fig. 3 model in photosuite
Data Atlas the Data De’rive
fig. 1 research into circular graphical representations of data sets
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Data Atlas the Data De’rive
21 data definition within the dérive <1812.1.2> Coordinates
Maximum Db
Minimum Db
method>practice>record>translate>configure
Paul Psychological Silence
Patrick Behavioural Discomfort
Hawa Physiological Annoyance
James Cogni2ve Distrac7on
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A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7
68.4 86 80.4 75.7 79.3 81.2 72.9
56.3 64.3 65.7 60 55.9 62.6 66.2
7.7 0.8 1.2 3.9 4.3 10.0 6.0
1.1 8.5 7.4 1.0 5.6 2.3 3.5
4.0 8.8 5.8 2.8 5.5 5.8 2.5
9.5 5.5 4.5 9.0 7.5 9.9 7.0
B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7
63.2 62 82.5 81.8 81.8 69.1 78.6
54.5 53.1 68.3 72.9 66.8 61.6 62
7.5 9.9 0.3 3.1 4.4 7.6 7.7
1.5 2.1 4.5 5.3 3.2 2.7 3.6
2.3 0.3 4.8 5.0 3.8 0.8 1.8
9.8 9.5 6.0 4.0 6.5 9.5 8.0
C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7
76.7 66.6 72 87.3 79.3 79.6 82.4
58.9 61.7 62.9 72.1 69 73.8 70.7
8.2 9.4 8.2 0.2 1.4 1.9 0.7
1.4 2.5 3.1 6.7 7.6 5.2 6.5
2.0 0.5 0.3 7.5 3.8 6.2 8.3
8.5 9.5 9.0 3.5 5.0 5.0 2.5
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79.5 77 78.1 79.4 79.9 83.6 79.6
66.6 68.6 64 68.8 63.6 73.4 76.9
1.6 1.2 0.0 0.3 3.0 0.0 2.8
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75 78.3 70.6 84.7 79.3 83.6 79.6
67 68.3 65 59.7 67.9 61.5 76.9
3.7 5.5 8.1 3.6 1.9 2.2 5.1
3.6 3.1 2.2 6.3 6.5 7.8 4.3
1.5 2.3 0.8 7.8 4.0 3.0 1.2
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77.5 78.6 80.4 81 77 65.1 79.7
62.6 61.3 65.8 68.1 69.9 59.6 64.2
6.4 7.1 3.0 3.8 4.4 7.9 4.5
3.3 6.9 7.7 5.2 2.5 2.7 3.4
1.8 1.8 5.8 2.8 3.0 1.3 3.3
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G1 G2 G3 G4 G5 G6 G7
62.6 63 78.3 75.6 78.8 79.8 69
57.6 57.5 61 69.3 67.4 65.5 60.1
10.0 8.2 8.6 0.0 2.2 4.0 8.9
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fig. 2 Sound Value: 4 ways sound affect us, Julian Treasure.
fig. 3 data sets converted into valuations.
fig. 4 data sets for 360 panoramas.
The Process The processing of data sets was informed by Julian Treasure’s lecture on how sound affects us. We decided to use the values and criteria which he setout; psychological, behavioural, physiological and cognitive. This criteria would allow us to convert the data collected into quantifiable values which could be represented in a matrix. The group decided to produce a set of strict criteria for each typology and rate each sound track. Each group member rated each track in order of 1 to 10 then, each set of rated sounds were again rated between 1 to 10. This allowed for a rating to be achieved which gave each sound clip a equalised value across the whole data set. These values were then tabulated to allow for convention and data processing into more graphical devices. Research into existing graphical interfaced and representation methods was undertaken. A series of differing graphical device were used to represent data. However as this book illustrates the most holistic and comparative methodology is to view all different forms of representation in close succession.
fig. 5 converted data sets into psychological, behavioural, physiological and cognitive.
fig. 6 30 second audio recordings for each grid coordinate.
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Data Atlas the Process
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Database Interface Process data sets converted and represented in a website which allowed user interaction of the collected data to navigate Huddersfield.
Data Atlas the Process
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Database Graphology Data sets for the sound valuations were equalised to allow for a direct data comparison by users of the website interface.
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Data Atlas the Process
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fig. 1 initial web interface
fig. 6 initial test of sound recordings in Manchester
fig. 2 initial interface sound interface
fig. 7 panorama data collected in Huddersfield
fig. 3 3D graph of sound valuations
fig. 8 processing data via on scripted environment fig. 4 sound analysis of recodings
The Data Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;rive Matrix
fig. 5 user interface for data
The input of data sets and processed data sets into a user interface allowed for the data to used in direct relationship with physical and emotional metrics collected within the city. The user could use both the graphology and photographic data sets to explore Huddersfield as a soundscape.
Data Atlas Essen Study Trip
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Essen Study Trip The unit undertook a study trip to Essen. As part of the trip we visited Zollverein with our colleague from Braunschweig. The trip was a great opportunity to see a large scale masterplan by OMA, and furthermore to experience the re-use and development of an industrial landscape. As a group we also decided to visit the Landschaftspark with again was an old industrial site, which has undergone conversion to be re-used for recreation and entertainment. Both projects have made a strong impression in terms of the direction of the studio design project.
Zollverein Mining Complex A study trip was conducted of the OMA masterplan for Zollverein and the Landschaftspark
Hauptbahnhof, Essen The location of the Essen main train station interchange became the focus of our research into spacial justice
Data Atlas the Essen
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Boundaries & Thresholds
fig. 1 boundaries and thresholds
Materiality
Surveillance
Commercial Use
Active & Static Analysis
fig. 9 active and static analysis
fig. 8 commercial use
Active & Static Analysis
fig. 10 active and static analysis
Implied Routes
fig. 6 implied routes
fig. 5 surveillance
Urban Furniture
fig. 7 urban furniture
fig. 3 guides routes
fig. 2 materiality
Hausordnung Location
fig. 4 hausordnung location
Guide Routes
Active & Static Analysis
Active & Static Analysis
fig. 11 active and static analysis
fig. 12 active and static analysis
Workshop: Spatial Justice Essen Workshop The workshop focused on the theme of Spatial Justice in terms of privatisation of public space. Together with students from Braunschweig our group decided to map and analyse the Hauptbahnhof of Essen to establish the test the relationships
between commercial interests within publicly owned place. The resultant were a series of maps which illustrated the device of control and composition of stations spacial organisation. This allowed for us to establish an understanding of the device used in such typologies.
Data Atlas Essen
Commercial & Transport Signage
fig. 13 commercial and transport signage
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Commercial & Transport Signage
fig. 14 commercial and transport signage
Comparative Data The interest of commercial entities was measured within the signage and footfall they exploited within the interior elevation of the station. This data was collected and represented to demonstrate the comparative interests between commercial signage and the functional signage of the station operations. The resultant is a clear disparity between the presents of commercial signage and the signage of the station.
Commercial & Transport Signage
fig. 15 commercial and transport signage
Data Atlas Essen
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IT IS NOT ALLOWED TO... ...beg and hassle any persons ...consume excessively alcohol ...feed any birds ...play loud music ...sit and lay on the floor and at stairs ...play ballgames ...rummage through dust bins
YOU NEED TO GET A PERMISSION BY THE STATION MANAGEMENT FOR... ...handling out any flyers ...installing any posters ...selling and distributing any goods ...making live music and demonstrations ...taking photos for commercial use ...making any surveys
ESSEN STATION
THESE HOUSE RULES ARE APPLICABLE TO ALL THE DEUTSCHE BAHN NETWORK AREA.
EVAG
> this sheet of paper called "Hausordnung" has got a size of A3 and is presented in between of other announcements at both entrances Hausordnung Rules
fig. 16 Hausordnung - rules of occupancy/usage
DEUTSCHE BAHN Monopoly
fig. 17 monopoly of station operation
Data Atlas Essen
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S Bahn
Government
National
DB
ICE
IC RB Bus
Local
EVAG
Tram Local Brand
Drivers of Urban Activity
The Current Model The relationship of the station between local and national transport authorities (publicly owned) was mapped to illustrate the functional responsibilities of the station to the public and the conflicting commercial interests of the authorities.
}
Commercial & Transport
/
Public & Transport
Data Atlas Essen
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little shops (INTER)NATIONAL TRANSPORT BRANDS (DB, TGV, ...)
platform platform platform
local brand
platform
ORGANIC GENERATED BRAND
CONTROLLED PRIVATISED TRANSPORT PUBLIC REALM
ESSEN
SELF REGULATING PUBLIC REALM COOPERATIVE / DEMOCRATIC
STATION
local identity
LOCAL SERVICE
local needs seating
bahnhofsmission platform
LOCAL TRANSPORT BRANDS (EVAG)
platform
ticket share
?
platform platform
public library
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local acceptance Proposed System
The New Proposed System The new proposed system was to recapture the ownership and authority of the station. The station would be owned by local council authorities with a direct brief to integrated social programmes into the commercial aspects of the station. Furthermore the link to Deutsche Bahn would be removed and the station would be opened to other international train operator to strengthen commercial competition and intvestment.
DIGITAL DESIGN & FABRICATION Research of Fabrication & Construction. Research Design & Studio Agenda Formation.
Patrick Drewello Thesis Studio Design Project, Bachelor of Architecture Manchester School of Architecture 2011
HOW ARE ROBOTICS & AUTOMATION CHANGING THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY?
R&Sie(n), Viab02. http://www. new-territories.com/blog/architecturedeshumeurs/
Scripts Contents Page
CONTENTS PAGE Forward: the Utopian narrative in a Computational Renaissance...........................................38 [the Utopia > the encoding of Utopia]
Introduction: Research...............................................................................................................44 [Strand Research]
Fabrication of Complexity..........................................................................................................52 [Design Development] [Fabrication of Complexity 1.0] [Fabrication of Complexity 2.0]
Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture........................................70 Robotic Research.......................................................................................................................76
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Scripts Forward
Archigram, Computer City - Speculative proposal for a computer system detecting and facilitating patterns of activity amongst a ‘city’ area of 100,000 people. http://archigram.westminster. ac.uk/project.php?id=59
Superstudio, The Continuous Monument. http://www.pointsofviewing.info/blog/wp-content/ gallery/futures/superstudio1.jpg
FORWARD Cedric Price, Fun Palace. From Agit-Prop to Free Space Archigram, Plug-in City - Speculative series of proposals for a computer-controlled city designed for change with removable elements plugged into a ‘megastructure’ service framework. http:// archigram.westminster.ac.uk/ project.php?id=56
Archigram, Walking City - Proposal for a nomadic city infrastructure in which urban utilities would not be tied to a specific location. Originally called Cities:Moving. http://archigram.westminster. ac.uk/project.php?id=60
The research here then considers and poises the questions of contemporary and novel construction technologies for the betterment of society and social structures. Have we arrived at a present for which some of the Utopian speculation and aspiration can be realised? Certainly we are in an age of robotics and computation, new Utopia must inherently have a place for such inventions.
Ebenezer Howard, The Garden City Utopia
Minimaforms, Archigram Revisited.
R&Sie(n), Viab02. http://www. new-territories.com/blog/architecturedeshumeurs/
Within the context of the studio agenda of Utopia and specifically within the realm of digital design and fabrication there seems to be a close relationship between the technological innovation of society and the social aspirations of designers within the paradigms of such advances.
Gramazio & Kohler, R-O-B.http:// www.interactivearchitecture. org/2009/robdrawing-450x330.jpg
Robo Tower Archigram, Robo Tower in Instant City. http://archigram. westminster.ac.uk/project. php?id=119
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Scripts the Utopia > the encoding of Utopia
fig. 1 generated complex aggregation
Archigram Revisited The exhibition ‘Imperfect Works’ captures the re-representation and evolution of Archigram’s seminal projects the Living Pod and HighRise Tower. This work demonstrates the application of ‘animalistic and collective orders of organisation’1 upon the original framework of the schemes. Evolutionary and generative computational processes directed the ‘conceptual metamorphosis’2 , or re-coding of the conceptual schema.
1 Spyropoulos, T., and Spyropoulos, S., (2010) Enabling: the Work of Minimaforms. AA Publications: London. p. 65. 2 ditto
fig. 2 generated complex aggregation
Scripts the Utopia > the encoding of Utopia
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fig. 3 diagram illustrates metamorphosis of the original living pod/pod tower.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The architectural project has mutated into an information interface between the private and public spheres. Architecture as an obstacle in space and time has given way to the reversibility of interactive processes that can be activated by every individual. Through the atmospheric dimension, the object has been transformed into an entropic territory.â&#x20AC;?3
fig. 4 generated complex aggregation
3 Spyropoulos, T., and Spyropoulos, S., (2010) Enabling: the Work of Minimaforms. AA Publications: London. p. 23.
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Scripts the Utopia > the encoding of Utopia
fig. 1 secretion machine (Viab) arms
fig. 2 development of urban growth algorithm
I’ve heard about…© The work of R&Sie(n) within the project I’ve heard about...(c) looks to parameterise a utopian future of organic adaptability and agent-based associations within a city organism. This approach is exemplar of the integration of Utopia as a thematic to drive digital design and agenda.1
“The world is terrifying when it’s intelligible, when it clings to some semblance of predictability, when it seeks to preserve a false coherence. In “I’ve heard about,” it is what is not there that defines it, that guarantees its readability, its social and territorial fragility and its indetermination.”2
1 R&Sie(n) (2005) I’ve heard about: the Social Protocol. [website] http://www. new-territories.com/I’veheardabout.htm.
2 R&Sie(n) (2005) I’ve heard about: the Social Protocol. [website] http://www. new-territories.com/I’veheardabout.htm.
fig. 3 secretion machine (Viab) arms
fig. 4 secretion of reticular structure by Viab’s arm
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Scripts the Utopia > the encoding of Utopia Neighbourhood protocol Current state approved by e-pulse 25792-45-34 Preamble: The urban structure “I’ve heard about” is a habitable organism. It develops by means of adaptive, transitory scenarios in which the operational mode is uncertainty. It is written based on growth scripts, open algorithms, that remain permeable not only to human expressions (expressions of individuality, relational, conflictual and transactional modes, etc.), but also to the most discrete data such as the chemical emissions of those who inhabit it. This biostructure becomes the visible part of human contingencies and their negotiation in real time. Due to its modes of emergence, its fabrication cannot be delegated to a political power that would deny its exchange procedures and design its contours in advance, either through mnemonics or coercion. Generative schemas 1. Entropies 1.0 The habitable structure is the result of an ongoing movement. It is an adaptive landscape, a biotropism based on local growth procedures which are themselves in a constant state of evolution. This is a general principle. 1.1 The primary function of the biostructure is to serve as a dwelling place. Its secondary function is to be reactive rather than pro-active. 1.1.1 As an organism, the biostructure is not only receptive to human vicissitudes, it is their nerve ending. 1.2 The construction engine called Viab is a constituent part of the structure itself. It secretes the landscape where it is located and through which it moves. It is the vector of political and territorial self-determination operating in two modes, variability and viability. 1.2.1 The Viab generates the reticular structure using a process modelled on contour crafting (see [Processes]).
of inputs, i.e. internal. 3.1.1 These stimuli arising from the chemical secretions of the multitude of bodies affect the construction logic of the Viab. They are the vectors of its shared reality. 3.2 “Harvesting” takes place through the intermediary of nanoreceptors dispersed throughout the confines of the biostructure and inhaled by the citizens. The functioning of these chemical receptors [NP] is described in [Processes]. 3.2.1 Their lifespan is 24 hours. Once this timeframe is over they automatically deactivate and are eliminated by the organism. 3.2.2 The anonymity of chemical data is a general principle.
supporting growth. 4.9 Because of the social and territorial modifications implied in any proposal challenging one of the basic principles, in order to be adopted (see Open Source [5.2.1]) such a proposal must be reapproved on two occasions, stated the same way as the original proposal. 4.10 To be approved, a proposal must be shared by a relative localized majority at a time (t). 4.10.1 A relative localized majority is comprised of a group of n citizens living contiguously. 4.10.2 The structure as a whole as well as all of its sub-groups are by definition sets of relative localized majorities. 5. Open source
3.3 Visitors to the biostructure disturb its equilibrium by the mere fact of entering its atmosphere.
5.0 Open source is a political and geographic tool.
3.4 Biostructure citizens are agents making up a reticular mode of political organization. The resulting unstable equilibrium produces a social mode for which the neighbourhood protocol is both a precondition and a movement.
5.0.1 To recapitulate, the Viab’s construction behaviour is generated by a growth algorithm which itself is the result of the miscibility of the two inputs, the chemical and the electronic. See [Entropies].
3.5 The induced behaviour is comparable to a kind of collective intelligence called swarm intelligence. See [Processes]. 3.6 The chemical interface with citizens, i.e. the Viab, infuses, amalgamates and contractualizes this political biochemistry. 4. Biopolitics 4.0 The social structure conforms to the territorial structure. 4.1 Creative individualism is a general principle.
5.1 All citizens may access the source code upon establishing residence in the biostructure. The source code contains the operating rules: the growth process and the transactional rules. General principles can only be modified under the restrictive conditions defined in point [4.9]. 5.1.1 The accessibility of the Viab’s source code makes it possible to avoid the implicit pitfalls entailed by its very existence. See [Anomalies 8.0]. 5.1.2 The modification of the source code within the framework of transactions provided for requires an e-proposal. The implementation of the code modifications thus decided is the only way the Viab is to be reprogrammed.
7.1.3 Available natural light is taken into account, as is power transmission, in the processes of growth by local aggregation and secretion. Grow is particularly facilitated in the structure’s convex regions and density is limited by diminishing energy. See [Processes]. 7.2 The algorithm of the Viab’s movements is described in terms of two levels of abstraction of the reticular structure: wire frame representation and its combinatoric graphing. 7.3 Citizens’ requests for growth or maintenance and requests for structural reinforcement (support) originated by the Viab are spatialized by the electronic network. Emitted in one place, they are distributed along the topology of the reticular structure in a gradient whose intensity grows over time. 7.3.1 The Viab acquires requests through these intensity gradients transposed into the pre-existing combinatoric graph of the neighbourhood. 7.4 The primacy of structural maintenance leads the Viab to constantly inspect the structure. The gradients linked to requests and the chemical stimuli respectively act as drift factors and disturbances in this sweep. 7.4.1 The Viab’s current technological limitations make a phased movement algorithm necessary. During this movement, the Viab uses a virtual Ariadne’s thread anchored in a base point in the biostructure. See [Processes]. 7.4.2 The impossibility of even a relatively short-term plan introduces an aleatory element into the Viab’s algorithm for spontaneous movement. 7.4.3 The Viab’s regular coverage of the entire structure is ensured not despite but because of this aleatory element in the movement algorithm. See [Processes].
4.2 Cohabitation is not based on static principles but rather on a constant interaction between citizens, noncitizens and the biostructure. 4.3 No one may oppose the arrival of a new citizen and the resulting growth. This is a general principle.
5.1.3 All operating rules, no matter what kind, can only be understood as variables (environmental, social and construction) modifiable via collective proposals. They are approved electronically and chemically perturbed – see [Self-alienation].
8. Anomalies
4.3.1 In the same way, no one may oppose the voluntary departure of a citizen, or invoke a protocol rule against a citizen or a group to demand their departure.
5.2 Any reprogramming of Viab that violates this principle or one of the general principles challenges the very structure of society.
8.0.1 Consequently, their heterogeneous combination disturbs the construction algorithm and engenders topological, aesthetic and structural disturbances.
1.2.3.1 Thus the variability of the Viab arises from the script that drives it, and this script itself undergoes a ceaseless reparametering as defined in [1.4].
4.4 Each citizen is free to choose their degree of participation and involvement in the life and growth of the biostructure.
5.2.1 If this hypothetical step is taken, the Viab ceases to function in terms of construction and repairs. It becomes deactivated, a residue of the structure.
8.0.2 These aberrations, deviations, and hybridations, the disorders generated by the Viab’s morphological speculations, are intrinsic to its operation.
1.3 The resulting form is uncertain and even unpredictable. It is the political antidote to the anticipatory modes that make space a system of control (see [Affective substances]).
4.5 Citizens have access to the data that condition the evolution of the biostructure in all its social aspects. They may propose a modification on the local, metalocal or overall level, and submit it to the multitude by means of the electronic networks running throughout the structure.
5.2.2 Nevertheless, following a prolonged deactivation the citizens may reinitialize the Viab’s parameters. By exercising this option they return to the neighbourhood protocol “I’ve heard about”.
8.1 There are several types of morphological pathologies: - Malformations due to deficiencies, cysts, cankers, protuberances, occlusions, etc. - Degeneration due to necrosis, erosion, fissures, disaggregation, etc.
1.2.2 The growth of the reticular structure takes place through local accretion occurring a-rhythmically, not planned in advance but taking into account viability, i.e., all the varieties of structural constraint (see [Processes]). 1.2.3 At any given time, the construction algorithm is the same for all the engines present in the biostructure. Each Viab proceeds according to this algorithm, but conditioned by data, requests and local disturbances that are inherently variable.
1.3.1 Consequently, the process is undeterminist. 1.3.2 Since the space involved in construction is indeterminate, it is assumed to be unfinished. If the opposite is the case, see [5.2 / 5.2.1]. 1.4 The construction algorithm responds to two kinds of data inputs, internal and external. The external inputs comprise the pre-existing urban morphology, modes of accessibility, structural limits, available natural light, the dimension and thickness of the habitable cells, the ensemble of parameters of the local biotope, etc. The internal inputs are of two types: 1) Chemical: physiological empathy, endocrinal secretions, bodily emissions, prepsychisms. See [Selfalienation]. 2) Electronic: individualisms, personal commitments, subjectivities (information and decision-making network). See [Biopolitics]. 1.4.1 The alchemy of the various inputs achieved by the construction algorithm determines the Viab’s actions. The miscibility of the data is what gives rise to the collective body. 1.5 The algorithm is open source. Its variability results from experiences, sharing and negotiations. See [4.5]. 1.6 The biostructure expands without eradicating the preexisting tissues. The process does not start from a tabla rasa, nor does it lead to patrimonialization. The structure behaves likes a graft, or better said, a parasite. It operates in previously urbanized zones, seeps into interstices, places and environments, etc. 1.7 The biostructure is regionalized. The construction algorithm takes into account the supply of raw materials as a construction variable, and depends directly on the physical qualities of the substances used. 2. Bio-Citizens 2.0 The mere fact of being present in the biostructure confers citizenship rights. This is a general principle. 2.0.1 Consequently, the nature of the compact is territorial. 2.0.2 Citizens may reappropriate a space, extend and transform it, and even destroy it. 2.1 Citizens of the biosphere agree that their requests (for growth, transformation, repairs, etc.) be submitted to the influence of the chemical stimuli of the multitude. 2.2 The protocol for exchanges between citizens and the biostructure is freely renewable. It is cancelled if the citizen leaves. 2.3 All citizens are ipso facto owners. 2.4 Rules [1] to [8] apply to everyone as long as they reside in the biosphere. 2.5 For operating instructions and departure procedures, see [6] and [Processes]. 3. Self-alienation 3.0 Citizens agree to become part of a particular social body so as to share physiological information. 3.1 These prepsychic stimuli constitute the second type
Resultant schemas
4.5.1 Accessing the data means interacting with the structure and being statistically recorded.
6. Uses
4.5.1.2 There are no reconditions for access to the database.
6.1 The dimensions of the structures and their growth along X-Y-Z coordinates depend directly on their localisation and the structural limits of the arborescences.
4.5.1.2 The database is a reactive interface: it serves simultaneously as a databank of all entered proposals, receptor of individual feedback and space where the induced growth can be visualized. 4.5.2 The resulting ensemble of feedback is transmitted to the Viab. 4.5.3 This ensemble constitutes the city’s morphological script. 4.6 Individual proposals via the networks can be made at any time. They are purely voluntary and not occasioned by any predetermined programme. 4.6.1 In any proposal, the elements of a situation are brought together on an experimental basis – see [Affective substances]. Proposals are speculative tools. 4.6.2 A proposal may be submitted anonymously via the biostructure network. The collection of individual feedback in electronic form is a general principle. 4.6.3 A proposal is an operative tool. It can only be applied dynamically. This makes the movement – social experience – a precondition. 4.6.4 A proposal is also a biopolitical tool. It cannot be formulated in a way that implies a delegation of political power in any form. This is a general principle. 4.7 The collection of feedback makes it possible both to judge the pertinence of the proposal and to call for its adoption or rejection. However, approval or disapproval are not the only possible results in this mechanism. The absence of feedback by more than a third of all citizens renders the proposal null and void. 4.7.1 Nevertheless, no proposal can be permanently rejected. Its reformulation is considered a legitimate renegotiation with the biostructure.
6.2 A new citizen may adopt one of two residence modes: - “Entropic”, which consists of negotiating growth with the structure. - Nomadic, which consists of borrowing an abandoned cell. In both cases, the Viab is to carry out the transformations. 6.3 The economic transaction production/transformation takes place through the purchase of a “time credit” allowing the utilization of the Viab. 6.3.1 A time credit may be acquired in exchange for induced services, the latter being a production mode of transaction contractualized with the biostructure. 6.4 All citizens are obligated to develop a three-storey habitable space comprising an underground cellar and an attic above the ground floor, no matter how small. Flat, single-storey residences are prohibited. This is a general rule. 6.5 The first phase of residence is nomadic. A cell is developed using a habitability kit. This includes, among other things, a light polymerizable envelope that adapts to the morphological configuration of the empty cell. See [Processes]. 6.6 Citizens are completely free to modify, transform or adapt this initial envelope or even to solidify it with the material of their choice. Note that only vertical walls are permanent. The Viab can modify and perforate horizontal structures (ceilings and floors). 6.7 Any use of these cells is allowed, for private or public use or services. 6.8 The transformation of a residence for a different use is negotiable with the adjoining cells. A new minineighbourhood protocol is drawn up.
4.8 Any proposal may be presented in two forms simultaneously, one constitutive and permanent, the other experimental and temporary.
6.8.1 This mini-neighbourhood protocol serves to define the ensemble of shared sensorial elements. The duration of the validity of this contract depends on the effective and corporal presence of the signatory parties.
4.8.1 Any proposal dismissed in its constitutive version but temporarily approved can be applied on an experimental basis for a period to be defined in the proposal itself. The biostructure is to be consulted again at the end of the experiment.
6.9 When they leave a cell, citizens are obligated to return it to its original state, or in other words to destroy all of the permanent structures they have erected during their residence. An explicit agreement signed by the new resident of a transformed cell derogates this requirement. 7. Scripts
4.8.2 A group of citizens may choose the manner in which to put an approved experiment into practice. By definition, this will require specific growth. 4.8.3 In this case and only in this case, the experiment and the rhizomes thus generated can be rejected only by the residents of these rhizomes.
To recapitulate: the structure’s morphogenesis is driven by collectively reprogrammable Viabs. Thus the details of the construction algorithm are only provisionally valid. 7.1 The Viab’s general principle is structural maintenance.
4.8.3.1 The preceding is valid as long as these rhizomes do not overturn any general principles.
7.1.1 The Viab infers local structural constraints from the data furnished by the information network that runs through the biostructure.
4.8.3.2 The concept of a rhizome extends beyond its physical existence.
7.1.2 A structural inability to respond to a request leads the Viab to emit (and possibly itself process) a request for
8.0 The Viab is directly affected by the vibrations produced by the superimposition of two types of stimuli. See [Entropies].
8.2 These malformations modify the nature of the constructed secretions and alter the definition of familiar geographies. 8.2. Nevertheless, the only malformations the Viab seeks to repair or deprogramme are those that endanger the stability of all or a part of the biostructure. 8.3 Any other physical or aesthetic deformation is to be considered a result of the neighbourhood protocol.
R&Sie(n) (2005) I’ve heard about: the Social Protocol. [website] http://www.newterritories.com/protocole anglais.doc
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Scripts Strand Research
INTRODUCTION: RESEARCH The following sets out the ArchiBureau (Patrick Drewello) research objectives and design agenda for the ‘Fabrication of Complexity’ research project.
Research Objectives & Design Agenda The objectives and agenda have in parallel been published on a website [www.archibureau.com/blog] as a platform for further development and contribution to computational design discourse. As well as a stage to showcase the work and research conducted by ArchiBureau. ArchiBureau website: research objectives and design agenda. http:// www.archibureau.com/blog/
Objectives: * Architectonic Based Morphology (Surfaces). * Parametric Interface (Beta-Test-Linkages). * Adaptive Model (Neighbourhood). * Intelligence & Self-Organisation. * Local Store; Read Access; (Feedback-Loop). * Negative-Feedback v. Positive-Feedback. * Self-Referential Agents. Design Agenda: * Emergent-Properties. * Aggregation. * Spatial organisation via meta-linkages. * Generative Design Drivers.
Google Code Page: ArchiBureau Research Strand. http://code. google.com/p/archibureau-research-strand/
Research Mission: Archibureau’s Research ‘Strand’, is an initiative which conducts research and explorations of computational, algorithmic and generative design agenda, with the aim to tease out emergent properties of complex interconnectivity and behaviours. Practical Operation: This work involves research into the aggregation and self-organisation of spline curves using scripted environments in MAYA Mel Script & Rhino Grasshopper.
Automorphic Strand Tower Work by Testa and Weiser on robotic distribution of fibres for applications of building construction and form.
Scripts Strand Research
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AUTOMORPHIC
AUTOMORPHIC STRAND TOWER
Automorphic Strand Tower Developmental images of Automorphic Strand Tower by Testa and Weiser.
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Scripts Strand Research
fig. 1 render of internal structure
fig. 2 materialisation
fig. 3 plan of aggregation
Roche - Student Work The following is a design research project by a student at UPenn, run by studio tutor Francois Roche. This work is particularly interesting in the methods and scripts used to generate a non-linear structure via aggregation of members.
fig. 4 initial conceptual iterations of scripted behaviours
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Scripts Strand Research
fig. 1 render of internal structure
fig. 2 final proposal
Operation LIFT Land Integrated Technology
fig. 3 plan of strand behaviours
Forming
The following project by John Klein is a design research project which looks into scripted strand aggregation for construction and material performances. However the project goes further to integrate delivery and consider the construction of the proposal via automated fabrication technologies.
fig. 4 strand behaviours simulated in script environment
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Scripts Strand Research
fig. 1 physical model of final design proposal
fig. 2 development images
fig. 3 plan of strand organisation
Reef This design research project looked at complex organisation of strands and their behaviours, similar to behaviours of hair and the work of Frei Otto. Interesting is the organisation and physical production/ realisation of the designresearch work.
fig. 4 iterations of plan organisation of strands
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Scripts Strand Research
fig. 1 proposal
fig. 2 proposal
Urban Lobby The project looked at the aggregation and optimisation of relational paths and strands. A flux-logic algorithm was used to generate the organisation.
fig. 3 scripting principles and development
fig. 3 spacial development
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Scripts Strand Research
fig. 1 final physical model
fig. 2 fabrication of model
Carbon Fibre, Furniture The following project has an interesting approach to the fabrication of objects formed from strand organisations. The use of carbonfibre and UV light to cure the strands is an interesting and developmental approach to be considered for further research and design.
fig. 4 fabrication of model
fig. 3 fabrication of model
Rapid Prototyping Facility Establishes a pipeline between fabrication and computational design processes.
Script Atlas Design Development
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT The aim of this project is to develop and understanding of contemporary fabrication technologies and novel digital design processes. In order to drive a design-research agenda which will form part of the studio project programme. These topics are outlined below:
Free-Form Fabrication The digital fabrication and free-form production processes are autonomous to the complexity and constructability of novel organisations of material and spatiality. These processes allow for the production of prototypes which would under normal conditions prove difficult to produce.
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fig. 1 physical contour model
fig. 2 d-shape printed model
Contour Crafting
D-Shape
Contour Crafting is on going in research, a fabrication technology which utilises robotic production to create volumetric housing.
The D-Shape fabrication technology looks to production of volumetric structures and dwellings. In part this technologies has is being developed for the application of moon station fabrication.
The processes uses fast setting cement, an extrusion nosel and guides to erect a structure in layers. Over a 24+ hour period complete housing structures can be achieved.
The production process involves layering a aggregate material such as sand with a binding agent to create a synthetic stone construct.
The aim here is to approach the digital design realm with a open attitude, produce complex and novel formations, and fabricate the output.
Digital Design Processes Digital design and computation are inherent in architecture. Iterative and developmental processes are used by designers and architects as fundamental processes of design generation. Digital design is still not established, but this realm is expanding the desire and reach of the designer. The aim is to further develop skills and understandings of complex geometry for the generation of physical prototypical objects.
fig. 4 routing using robotic arm
fig. 3 SLS production process
CNC Routing
Selective Laser Sintering
The technology of Computer Numberical Control has been used throughout the automative industry for near 30 years However the application to the construction industry is only recently being tested within research labs.
Commonly used to generate prototypes for machinery and metal components. This technology can the ability to fabricate components to extreme tolerances of accuracy and detail.
CNC Routing involves a 7-axis robotic arm with routing attachment. This can then be instructed to remove material.
The SLS process uses laser to fuse layers of material together. This process allows for various materials to be used. inc. metal and glass.
Script Atlas Design Development
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Algorithmic Strands Initial research and experimentation into algorithmic driven strand aggregation via grasshopper and maya.
Detailed Textured Strands An exploration into additional layers of articulation in the form of material surfaces and light properties
Script Atlas Design Development
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Detailed Textured Strands 2 An exploration into additional layers of articulation in the form of material surfaces and light properties
Script Atlas Design Development
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Script Atlas Design Development Design Development The development of the research project has been an application of computational design processes to achieve a system which is both analogous and inherent to non-linear organisation. The model which has been developed through a graphic scripting interface (Grasshopper) within the 3-D modeling platform (Rhino). Initial research and development required the study of existing typologies of scripts, to achieve an understanding of the landscape and application of this technology upon architectural design agenda.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;(...) Grasshopper seems to be winning out in the competitive struggle for domination as the preferred tool for scripting -at least in the avantgarde segment of the discipline- both on the diagrammatic level as well as on the level of concrete modelling. The great advantange of Grasshopper is that it transposes most of the scripting syntax into graphic network language. The system of parametric dependencies that organizes the internal variability and differentiation of the model can now be configured and manipulated via a second order diagram that controls the first order diagram or model. The fact that this new, crucial domain on design decisions -the choise and elaboration of systematic correlations between the variable elements of the designis now brought back into the ambit of architectureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialized medium of communication is perhaps the precondition for full-blown proliferation of parametric scripting techniques within archtiecture and the design disciplines.â&#x20AC;?1 1 Schumacher (2011) The Autopoiesis of Architecture: A New Framework for Architecture. pp. 354.
fig. 1 final fabrication model
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Design Development The development of the 3-D model has been an output of several iterations to achieve the final proposed design.
Script Atlas Fabrication of Complexity
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Virtual Model Enables the illustration and representation of complex organisations via non-linear processes.
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Script Atlas Fabrication of Complexity Fabrication of Complexity
Digital Design Processes
Fabrication of Complexity explores the spectrum of generative processes within digital design. The project agenda looks to the convergence of intelligence, agency and generativity – these polemics provide a philosophical framework by which this inquiry is sustained within the discourse of architecture and urbanism. In addition, generative processes afford linkages with other creative endeavours, those of; the artist (see Sims), the musician (see Eno), the sculptor (see Brown) and the painter (see Pollock). Therefore, the traditional creative ecologies remain, whilst also in direct opposition to designers who prescribe to the neo-luddits’ view, or that of the technophobic. Consequently it maybe argued that; computational inventions graft onto traditional couplings, generating novel connectivities and constructing deeper capacities. Therein abstract machines expand the architectural conceptions on processes and systems; in turn providing the cues for the transition of the masterbuilder to the system-designer. Furthermore, generative processes afford a synthesis of collective interactions and varied constraints with the intention to subvert the preconceived (see Wendt & Glahn) or the self-conscious process.
Current platforms lack commonsensical laws of the everyday. The negative tenants of ‘hacking’ are fundamentally the actions which are implementing moralities of performances and intelligence into these dumb infrastructure. Re-branded as ‘scripting’, designers are beginning to achieve resistance to the victimisation and abuse of our generic platforms - interestingly this intersection of virtual and construction logics is the study of proponents such as Gramazio & Kohler. The technological properties of the architectural system define the variability of system parameter – converging on network theory – the system is composed of nodes, links, input and output. In conclusion it is the synaptic adaptability (thereby resulting in the unknown) of these links which makes them generative. For the purpose of creativity the parametric would seem to present our nemesis, leading us astray.
fig. 3 design development in software platform fig. 1 generated complex aggregation
Generative processes establish the exploration of infinite possibilities. Architectural systems achieve novelty via processes which simulate dynamic flows of energy, within the edge conditions of ‘changes of state’. The artificialisation of logics and intelligences of evolution, material and simultaneous interactivity are the mechanisms by which architects shear their design preconceptions, and engage with the horizontality of mass culture. As a side note, we must be vigilant of the reductionism inherent within academic definition and specificity, to the term ‘generative design’. The following project then is an attempt to deal directly with complexities within the simultaneous interactions of agency of a system of flows and streams. Fundamentally, the interactions and activities may provide endless sources of digital identities for the purpose of generated novel organisation.
The project establishes notions of systematic linkages at the outset of the processes, additional algorithmic operations are utilised to further construct the initial framework. Applied thereon is the architectural system which is driven via a series of parallel computational processes – in the form a multi-agent system, to which the architectonic properties of the frameworks are sensitive, reactive and adaptive (via feedback). A fundamental parametric process is applied at the process back-end to allow for tolerances for the constraints and limitations of fabrication, a quasi post-generative production process.
Fabrication Constraints The fabrication of the model, required a high level of precision and detail, thus the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) processes was selected to fabricate the model. The SLS process implements a computer-directed laser to fuse together layers of powder material. 3D model data is decomposed into layers, layers are sequentially fused, and this process is repeated until completion. For some primary SLS manufacturers please see EOS GmbH (http://www.eos. info/produkte.html ) and 3DSystems (http://www.3dsystems.com/ ).
Related Articles Wiscombe, Tom – Emergent Processes. http://www.emergenttomwiscombellc.com/pdfs/OZJournal.pdf Mozolewska, Malgorzata - Structural Ornament. http://www.mmozolewska.com/pages/ornamentstrukturalny.html Wendt, Marcus & Glahn Vera-Maria - Design with Generative Processes. http://www.field.io/information/generative Sims, Karl – Artifical evolution for computer graphics. Computer Graphics, 1991. Scheurer, Fabian – Materialising Complexity. AD New Structuralism, 2010. fig. 2 development of complex organisation
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Script Atlas Fabrication of Complexity Fabrication of Complexity 2.0 The 3D model once finalised needed to be reprocessed to allow for fabrication tolerances within the SLS production process and to achieve economic sensibilities, so that cost-of-production could be controlled via variation of the parametric model. The production of the SLS model under went several iterations to reach a cost effective and production sensitive model. To achieve tolerances the diameter of the model was parametrised so that the total volume of the model would be altered.
fig. 3 STL polygonal 3-D model data
The technologies explored here, and the digital design process as inherent processes which are relevant to the production of complex components within current architectural practice. Therefore the aim within the studio design project is to explore further such technologies and look to integrate them within the thematic driver used for the reprocessing of the landscape.
Related Websites fig. 1 physical SLS model
Shapeways - SLS Fabrication Facility http://www.shapeways.com/
The SLS fabrication technology required the 3D model be converted into a unified polygonal mesh (as an STL format). The conversion into STL proved a difficult process as the complexity of the model needed to be reduced in order to achieve a printable model file. The use of parametric variation again allowed for a reduction in the complexity and enabled a streamlining of the work-flow. Several model files were rejected by the SLS fabrication facility due to tolerances and errors in the STL model file, however these issues were eventually overcome and the final physical model was produced. The physical model represents a captured frame of the vertical model. Although the production tolerances resulted in delays in the fabrication the physical model was achieved to minimum tolerances of the SLS technology. The final diameter of the strands measuring approx 1.25 mm.
Studio Design Project This project has acted as a test bed to experience the full process inherent in the design-build agenda of an artefact, or object. This process has illustrated the shortcoming and issues with such novel production technologies, however the opportunities and potential of these systems to change the production of buildings remains great. The future of such fabrication technologies may allow for the complete production of structures and buildings, as is evident in the work of projects such as D-shape.
fig. 2 parametric variation of strand diameter for fabrication tolerances
fig. 4 parametric system for tolerance variation
fig. 5 measurement of strand member diameter for SLS fabrication
Script Atlas Fabrication of Complexity
Physical Model Establishes a pipeline between fabrication and computational design processes.
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Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture
D-Shape Printed Model Radiolaria Gazebo designed by Andrea Morgante, Shiro Studio, London.
Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture
How should architects in the UK prepare themselves for a new future? What are the implications of globalisation upon the practice of architecture? Will BIM allow us adapt to the shifts of capital to exploit new opportunities, as we will suggest here? What technologies and methodologies are required to deal with finite resources and a increasing loss of skilled workforce? What innovations to practice are needed to achieve competencies and sustainable business ventures? This paper will deal primarily within the realm of innovation and technologies which are due to become necessity in the future at hand, both in terms of the act of construction and the practice of architecture as a profession. Furthermore, we will discuss the implications of the advances in CAD/CAM technologies upon and within the roles of; the architect, the ARB, the RIBA and the client. We will review three key components which look to shift our current paradigms, subverting the current methodologies we employ within the building industry; firstly, we will review the impact of BIM, secondly, explore new forms of construction technologies in the form of ‘additive fabrication’ methods, thirdly, we will discuss the agenda of ‘design-build’, in respect to procurement. Furthermore, we will look to a practice which has implemented all the above technologies within their business model. In 1946, George Devol and Joseph Engelberger designed “the first programmable robot arm” [Bock 2009, p. 3]. This was a turning point in the automation of industrialisation, via robotics. In 1963, Ivan Sutherland at MIT developed Sketchpad, on the premise that “computer aided design tools were intended to support a design process” [Mark et al. 2008, p. 170]. This was a turning point in the computerisation of technical drawings within the profession. In the 1980s, the Japanese construction industry applied robotics to the construction of buildings, due to a shrinking workforce, the causes of which were; “ lack of skilled labor, dangerous-dirty-dull working conditions, no cheap foreign workforce available, high accident and death rates, poor construction quality, time and cost overrun and poor image of construction and building trades in the public opinion” [Bechthold 2010, p. 119]. This has established a comprehensive set of robotics which haven’t seen full utilisation since the economic downturn of Japan in the late 1980, when these technologies were put on hold. The introduction of Building Information Modelling (BIM) looks to present another turning point within the architectural industry. A dramatic development as 3-D modelling is increasingly being coupled with the automated robotic machines, developed in the 1980. As research and development into these new technologies continues, new construction technologies present to great opportunities for architects, of which ‘additive fabrication’ methods look the most promising. With the current economic downturn and the implementation of CAD/CAM technologies and other digital fabrication, we may see a paradigm shift in regard to services and delivery of architecture in the future, the agenda of ‘design-build’ may become more intensified. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate novel methodologies and new organisational cultures within the practice of architecture and propose alternative business methodologies, for the future relevance of the Architect. These alternatives may prove to not only sustain our position, but may also prove to enhance or re-establish our standing within the hierarchy of the construction industry. Certainly the aim is to realign with our clients, who themselves have shifted in demographic.
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Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Practice David Celento in Innovate or Perish: New Technologies and Architecture’s Future [2010], centers his discussion of how architects may improve architecture’s marketplace success. He explains that a primary cause of the architects diminishing impact, is that we “are among the very few providing custom design services in a productinfatuated society. […] few clients posses an understanding of the efforts necessary to create custom products, and even fewer are willing to adequately finance them.” [Celento 2010, p. 57]. Primarily then the impact of the reliance upon mass-produced goods has conditioned the expectations of clients, and they “lack an understanding of the complexity of creating anything tailor-made.” [Celento 2010, p. 59]. Reflecting further on the current client, Urs Gauchat in The $300,000/ Year Architect [2009], goes onto describe a fundamental shift in the typology of client, and therein highlights the differing criteria and values clients use to inform their experiences and workings, in comparison to traditional notions of the clients (that of the aristocrat or of the entrepreneur). The client now is composed of; “private equity firms, hedge funds, real-estate investment trusts (REITs) and other financial institutions” [Gauchat 2009, p. 34]. Within this shift we see the emergence of a new set of values. Values which inform the client behaviour, and how they measure the success of a project. This poises an interesting problem, as Celento explains, we as architects have judged our success in qualitative means, however this set of entities are driven via quantitative measures, the markets and flow of capital are inherent to the fundamental operations of these clients. Therein as the complexity of building increases, we are seeing client alienation, due to two main factors, both the result of globalisation. Firstly, their exposure to mass-produced goods, and secondly, their quantitative methods of how to rate success. We as architects must address these fundamental factors, if we are to have any future in a global market place. The following section when presents how inventions such as BIM are beginning to address the latter shortfall, by establishing a framework of sophisticated 5-D modelling solutions, and presents further implementations and advances of BIM, and reviews the required changes to the codes of practice. Building Information Modelling (BIM) fundamentally entails a 3-D modelling infrastructure, furthermore databases maybe integrated within these virtual models. 4-D models integrate aspects of costing and scheduling, were as 5-D models encapsulate phasing and time. BIM, is well established within the USA, with the UK lagging significantly behind. The body which administers BIM in the USA is the General Services Administration (GSA) which is a national program to compile accurate information on projects. Similarly in the UK the Construction Project Information Committee (CPIC) operates parallel responsibilities to that of the GSA. BIM may become particularly relevant as Paul Morell, the Construction Minister, has recently recommended that BIM may become a compulsory condition in the procurement of all public building projects. [Winston 2010]. The official definition of BIM recognised by RIBA & the CPIC, was published by Keith Snook, the RIBA Director of Research & Technology, in 2009. In comparison, the USA definition by the AIA was published in 2005. The RIBA has defined BIM, as the following [Snook 2009, p. 01]; “Building Information Modelling is digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a facility creating a shared knowledge resource for information about it forming a reliable basis for decisions during its life cycle, from earliest conception to demolition.” A key advantage to BIM is the extent of previsualisation it allows prior to construction, BIM “diminishes ambiguity, reduces errors, and
Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture generates savings for clients” [Gauchat 2009, p. 35]. As can be seen from fig.1 and fig.2 the design process is directly effected by the implementation of BIM, creating feedback loops into the process to allow for a more simultaneous input, making the whole process much more non-linear and adaptive to change. For instance, should any constraint within the project change, the model maybe updated, with all changes captured automatically within associated 2-D drawings, schedule and costings, all updated in parallel.
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information [ScottWilson 2009]. The Crossrail project itself is based on it very own Act of Parliament, with a budget of £16 Billion, and effecting 37 existing station, both within London Underground ltd (LUL) and Network Rail (NR). This project has an extremely high level of complexity, both within the design and construction aspects of the project. Here the trial of BS1192, will establish what are known as Integrated Building Information Model (iBIM), or Integrated Product Delivery (IPD), which present the next level of multi-model integration, a infrastructure by which to share data and information. The criteria and values of the education of young architects will play a particularly important role, if the above code of practice is to be realised. The ARB and the RIBA hold a particularly important role in terms of achieving a competent skill base within the profession of architecture. As Gauchat discusses, the misconception of BIM drives a ‘work as usual’ approach to BIM, however the process requires new skills and more comprehensive training;
fig. 1 traditional architecture process
fig. 2 BIM in architectural practice
Predominantly though, the abilities of BIM to address key considerations of the financial institutions, imply that it will become further embedded within the construction industry as a standard benchmark. As is elaborated on by Gauchat; “BIM removes uncertainty and therefore reduces risk. Owners, financial institutions and investors alike have a pathological dislike for unknowns and concomitant risks, thus the added value provided by architects using BIM justifies higher fees and even their possible participation in the economics of building development projects.” [Gauchat 2009, p. 35]. BIM, may present a catalyst for redefining collaboration within the design team and with contractors, furthermore BIM entails changes to architects themselves, to better adapt their internal management processes to ensure correct working, efficiency and quality of service. Fig 3, depicts the organisation structure which the practice, Skidmore Owings Merrill (SOM), have developed to enable full integration, of BIM, within their existing architectural design processes. Therein 3-D modelling is linked to various database systems, for costing and scheduling purposes. Such a framework utilises 3-D models at a fundamental level and proves useful for the conception and delivery, or creation and execution, of a project.
“Many view BIM primarily as a software program. This is based on the assumption that ‘CAD jockeys’ would merely be replaced by ‘BIM jockeys’. Instead, the use of BIM to its full potential will require very high levels of skill, experience and judgement. The traditional draughtsman or junior architect of yore is not in a position to simultaneously design and evaluate a myriad interlocking decisions.” [Gauchat 2010, p. 35]. A fully iterate operator of BIM, will however also need to address complex decision making tasks, therefore this role must most likely be played by an architect. As; “[t]he integration of design decisions, cost implications and construction feasibility requires an inordinate ability and a highly elevated level of responsibility.” [Gauchat 2010, p. 35]. Taking this position further the role, importance and responsibilities of architects will increase ten fold. Leading to a general increase in salaries and position within the hierarchy of construction; “The added economic value they [the architect] can provide should elevate their salaries to the equivalents of those of top lawyers and doctors.” [Gauchat 2010, p. 35]. The dominant reasons for the demand of BIM to increase is due, in part, to influences of the flow of capital globally, as is discussed by Gauchat; “they [clients] are driven by sophisticated analyses rather than ego or pride of ownership; they are shrewd and constantly compare real-estate investments with alternative and potentially more productive uses of capital.” [Gauchat 2010, p. 34]. The above considerations all lead to better accountability, predictability and costing etc. They allow for what is termed as ‘costto-action’ associated decision making.
Construction Technologies: Additive Fabrication Methods
fig. 3 Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), Building Development Information Model
The British Standard, which incorporates specifications for BIM is BS1192. BS1192 focuses not only on BIM but expands upon the infrastructure provided by BIM and provides clear guidelines for ‘model data collaboration’ [ScottWilson 2009]. This standard sets out advantages and benefits for modelling techniques as opposed to drawing, however it lays the foundations for addressing large disparities between the sharing, distribution and collaboration of construction information between members of the design team. BIM, is currently being tested on Europe largest infrastructure project, Crossrail. Which makes use of the BS1192-5:2007 code of practice for managing the production, distribution and quality of construction
Previously, we have already discussed two primary effects of globalisation upon clients, our client’s exposure to mass-produced goods and their quantitative methods of rating success. Both may have certainly lead to the increased marginalisation of the Architect. Furthermore, Joshua Prince-Ramus of REX architects, formally the OMA office in NY, has commented on the increased complexity and litigiousness of the construction industry, in tandem within this the liabilities have also increased. As a result “as we have faced liability, we have stepped back […] unfortunately where there is liability there is power. So eventually we have found ourselfs in a totally marginalised position” [Prince-Ramus 2009]. To Prince-Ramus, the architect is primarily to blame, moreover he describes how in the fact we have created a major problem in that; “We actually created an artificial schism between creation and execution, as if you could actually create without knowing how to execute and as if you could actually execute without knowing how to create.” [Prince-Ramus]. Prince-Ramus provides a hint as to how we, as architects, may tackle this issue; “We need to stitch back creation and execution. And we need to
Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture start authoring processes again, instead of authoring objects.” [Prince-Ramus]. The following section then looks to CAD/CAM and digital fabrication technologies which may prove to provide a catalyst to ‘stitch back creation and execution’. Neil Leach and Behrokh Khoshnevis in Contour Crafting: A revolution in concrete construction [2010], have discussed the advantages and opportunities of additive fabrication methods, via Khoshnevis’s patented Contour Crafting technology. They discuss the issues Contour Crafting may tackle by setting out the following [Khoshnevis and Leach 2009, p. 168]; “[...] the construction industry today is reported as facing the following serious problems: a) low labor efficiency b) high rates of accidents on construction sites c) low quality of workmanship d) insufficient control of construction e) reduction of skills within workforce” For us to discuss the conditions of the construction industry as a complex problem, in parallel to considering our own marginalisation, we must address the current shortfalls facing the industry, primarily safety and cost concerns, whilst looking to novel technologies which provide the Architect the abilities to negotiation the convergence of conception and execution. One technology currently being developed which may prove to provide a framework for such explorations are the ‘additive fabrication’ methods. The reasons for this technology to become more prevalent in the future is that they directly address those criteria of the financial institutions, our primary client base. There are several advantages of this potential technology, from sustainability to a dramatic reduction of standard raw materials for construction. However, the primary capability and ultimately the reason for any potential full-scale realisation is the framework of this method, which is dependant upon the integration of CAD/CAM technologies with 3-D modelling, such integration provides mechanisms that transform construction into a defined and precise industry. Whilst the increasing complexification of buildings and the finite resources at our disposal, these novel technologies utilise additive fabrication methods, in contrast to traditional or reductive methods in which material is removed and waste produced, additive fabrication operates via precise layering (or addition) of material, therein such a process operates on a ‘as needed’ use of material basis, reducing in some cases the waste material by 1/5 [Leach and Khoshnevis 2010]. Furthermore these processes also hold extreme financial advantages and benefits, even over the savings found in the relatively well established ‘prefabrication industry’, the promise of reductions in cost has been shown to be between 30%-50% [Leach and Khoshnevis 2010, Monolite UK 2010], furthermore the the process allows a relative ability to cost precisely material usage.
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The D-shape (see fig 4 and fig 5) fabrication technology is a primary exemplar to the additive fabrication process, the technology has been developed for the possible application of space station creation on the moon, therein has been developed within the strictest criteria used for space craft standard calculations, as such the process must be clearly defined and precise; both in terms of time, cost and material usage. Attaching such parameter to the process enables a novel understanding of knowable quantitative values, enabling the adaptation of this technology within the market-driven decision making of financial institutions. The future of ‘additive fabrication’ holds the potential for “integrate expensive nuisance items like: mechanical chases, extruded plumbing channels, and conduits complete with electricity slurries.” [Celento 2010, p. 61]. Thereby some of the production line benefits, of reduction in cost and higher quality, seen in volumetric prefabricated technologies, may become more accessible to the capabilities of ‘additive fabrication’ in the near future.
Shifts in delivery: the ‘design-build’ agenda “Throw away the rulebook” [Chaszar and Glymph 2010, p. 88] Often the rise of new procurement routes have been the result of dramatic shifts in economic capital, directly or indirectly. The relationship between economic capital and the construction industry in part has been sustained via changes in contracts and procurement, to adapt to changing conditions. In the current condition of globalisation we have witnessed a period of rapid evolution of forms of contract, in an effort to remain competitive and increasingly more sensitive to financial institutions, to whom freemarket ecology has required a steadily increased dependants upon sophisticated analysis to limit risk. With the integration of CAD/CAM and BIM we may see a paradigm shift within the business models
fig. 6 BIM model of Boeing 777
and delivery of buildings by architects. It is proposed here that the ‘design-build’ agenda will increasing establish itself as the a leading paradigm within architecture. Chaszar and Glymph, point to the industrial design processes, the aircraft and automotive industries, which “tend to encompass the entire conception and production in-house, with only limited outsourcing.” [Chaszer and Glymph 2010, p. 87]. Within our discussion of CAD/CAM technologies and virtual 3-D modelling, new agendas may come to play within the procurement of building projects. In particular, we have drawn upon the agenda of ‘designbuild’ as a polemic which Architects may rapidly adapt in an effort to establish their own abilities of execution swell as create. Furthermore they discuss; “[r]ethinking the procurement process required to fully exploit CAD/CAM’s advantages leads generally to design-build as the preferred paradigm, in which many of the customary defensive obstacles are mitigated or eliminated by sharing financial risk and reward” [Chaszer and Glymph 2010, p. 88].
fig. 4 printed model using D-shape
fig. 5 aluminium 6x6m D-shape printer
Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture Case Study: FACIT The previous chapters discussed two primary technologies and their impact upon the methodologies employed within architectural practice. They established the realm of novel modelling systems, or BIM, which allow for better negotiation of the complexities of both design and construction, and achieve ‘cost-to-action’ decision making. They also explored new CAD/CAM technologies still under development, and discussed the opportunities and impact these construction technologies could have upon the construction industry, both in terms of reducing risk and achieving precision within costing and use of material. They also introduced the ‘designbuild’ agenda, exploring the relevance of procurement to achieve competencies within an ever changing economic market place. Drawing upon this basis, this chapter will analyse and evaluate a case study, of a practice which has already implemented all of the above technologies. FACIT, is a small sized practice located in the Hoxton/Shoreditch area of London, headed by Nick Willson, Bruce Bell and Dominic McCausland. The practices primary aim is to achieve and provide an integrated ‘design-build’ service to clients. As Bruce Bell explains; “we see the major issue in Architecture in general is the fragmentation of design and construction teams. Multiple contracts combined with multiple and differing commercial interests is not in the interests of the client or conducive to realising a good end product.” [Bell 2010, p. 1]. Moreover, Bell argues the models employed by the manufacturing industry, “where one single company is responsible for both the design and manufacture of the product” [Bell 2010, p. 1], results in a superior product/service for both architect and client. Bell, Gauchat and Celento all cite Boeing, as exemplar to full integration of a ‘design-build’ agenda with technologies such as BIM and CAD/CAM being utilised to achieve extreme precision and efficiency (see fig 6). “A company, product and service in one, we bring together bespoke design, manufacture and fabrication of homes into a single, simple solution.” [Facit UK 2010].
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designer makes a digital file and sends it away to be fabricated who is responsible for the making? The answer is surely the designer, as no human hand will touch the item and the machine is controlled at a distance by the designer. All of a sudden all these designers are actually making stuff, but we haven’t quite figured out how to take this on board - if we are making stuff not just designing stuff we need to be paid for it too. Hence the Facit business model.” [Bell 2010, p. 1]. The FACIT business model, integrates the uses of advanced CAD/ CAM technologies to manage quality and establish a defined construction process. As a practice, FACIT, engages both with the creation and execution of a project. Therein the Architect is able to provide the client; a full ‘design-build’ service. As Bruce Bell states; “Our initial task at Facit is to develop a business model that allows us as a small company to both design and manufacture our houses directly for the client, and it seems to be working out so far.”
Conclusion: Proposed Re-assertion of the Master Builders This paper has demonstrated some novel technologies emerging within architectural practice. The integration of these technologies may provide several advantages of the current conventions of practice: The full realisation of the BS1192 code of practice has the potential to revolutionise design coordination (via BIM), more dramatically though this code may also provide the mechanisms for dealing directly with the major issue of collaboration of construction information (via iBIM). Full utilisation of 3-D modelling techniques will ensure better interpretation, these models will be the new standard by which to communicate, test and realise construction projects. Enabling ‘cost-to-action’ decision making. The further integration of CAD/ CAM technologies for automated manufacturing, may prove to completely remove the need for interpretation, as ‘design-build’ agendas bulge. Overall, we may see practice providing ‘design-build’ services, as well as, others at the larger scale adopt more specialised 5-D modelling techniques and iBIM procedures, to achieve profits via extreme integration of highly efficient processes and previsualisation for collaboration and coordination of project data.
fig. 7 FACIT Production Module (FPM)
fig. 8 3-D Model for design coordination
The solution adopted (see fig 7 and fig 8) by FACIT, integrates advanced technologies with a simple criteria to their design process [Facit 2010]; “1) Immerse the client into the 3D design process. 2)Design the project all on computer (every last screw hole) & integrating all the services. 3)Assemble into lightweight blocks that one or two people can pick up un aided by expensive cranes. 4)Assemble rapidly on site like block of lego. ” Bell also describes how CAD/CAM tools challenges the conventions of architecture, as automation makes it possible for architects to design and fabricate in parallel. Reflecting on the comments of Prince-Ramus, the automation and precision of CAM technologies for designers to make stuff, bridges the gap between creation and execution. This would seem to be supported by Bell, who states; “the nature of our digital tools is forcing this change through - when a
We must remain objective, there are differing scales of practice and business. Certainly the large multi-disciplinary offices are evolving intelligent and specialised systems (such as iBIM) to bridge the gap between the practice of architecture and the financial markets, belaying fears via sophisticated analysis and ‘cost-toaction’ associated decision making. Furthermore, the smaller to medium offices have great opportunities in the rapidly developing technologies within fabrication, embracing existing capabilities in CAD/CAM technologies to realise a ‘design-build’ delivery. Such design-build practices, as FACIT, will be the first to perhaps establish the new form of ‘master-builder’, to “stitch back creation and execution” [Prince-Ramus 2009]. Ultimately, the paradigm shift we will see is the transformation of how architects value their work and business; moving from the qualitative, to the quantitative data with which our new client base will be far more comfortable and in so doing architects will employ tools with which to better manage the complexity of building.
Script Atlas Revival of the Master-builder: the Future condition of Architecture Bibliography Bechthold, M., (2010) The Return of the Future, A Second Go at Robotic Construction. In: The New Structuralism: Design, Engineering and Architectural Technologies. Architectural Design, Vol. 80, No. 4. West Sussex, England, John Wiley & Sons. pp 161-121. Bock, T., (2009) Turning Points in Construction. In: 26th International Symposium on Automation and Robotics in Construction. IAARC. Bell, B., bbell@facit-uk.com, (2010) Comments on FACIT and practice business agenda. [E-mail] Message to P. Drewello (p.drewello@gmail.com). Sent Monday 06 December 2010, 11:06. Available at: Appendix [Accessed 06 December 2010]. Celento, D., (2010) Innovate or Perish: New Technologies and Architecture Future. In: Corser, R. (ed.), Fabricating Architecture: Selected Readings in Digital Design and Manufacturing. Princeton Architectural Press, New York. pp 56-82. Chaszar, A., and Glymph, J., (2010) CAD/CAM In the Business of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction. In: Corser, R. (ed.), Fabricating Architecture: Selected Readings in Digital Design and Manufacturing. Princeton Architectural Press, New York. pp 86-92. Winston, A., (2010) BIM ot become part of public procurement process. Available from <http://www.bdonline.co.uk/news/uk/bim-to-become-partof-public-procurement-process/> [Accessed 25 November 2010]. Facit, (2010) FACIT. [website] Available at: <http://www.facit-uk.com> [Accessed 19 November 2010]. Gauchat, U., (2009) The $300,000/Year Architect. In: Closing the Gap. Architectural Design, Vol. 79, No. 2. West Sussex, England, John Wiley & Sons. pp 32-37. Garber, R., (2009) Optimisation Stories: The Impact of Building Modelling on Contemporary Design Practice. In: Closing the Gap. Architectural Design, Vol. 79, No. 2. West Sussex, England, John Wiley & Sons. pp 6-13. Khoshnevis, B., and Leach, N., (2010) Contour Crafting: A revolution in concrete construction. In: Estevez, A., (ed.) Genetic Architectures III: new bio and digital techniques. Sites Books, Barcelona. Mark, E., and Gross, M., and Goldschmidt, G., (2008) A Perspective on Computer Aided Design after Four Decades. In: eCAADe 26, 04. pp 169176. Monolite UK, (2010) D-Shape. [website] Available at: <http://www.d-shape. com> [Accessed 18 November 2010]. PriceWaterHouseCoopers, (2009) The future of UK manufacturing: Report of its death are greatly exaggerated. Available from <http://www.pwc. co.uk/eng/publications/the_future_of_manufacturing.html> [Accessed 12 November 2010]. Prince-Ramus, J., (2009) Building a theater that remakes itself. TEDxSMU Talks, Dallas. Available from <http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/joshua_ prince_ramus_building_a_theater_that_remakes_itself.html > [Accessed 09 December 2010]. Snook, K., (2009) Drawing is Dead â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Long Live Modelling. [internet]. Available from <http://www.riba-knowledgecommunities.com/pg/file/keiths1/ read/1247/drawing-is-dead-long-live-modelling> [Accessed 03 December 2010]. ScottWilson, (2009) Crossrail â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Case study BS1192:2007. Available from <http://www.buildoffsite.com/pdf/scott%20wilson%20bim%206%20may. pdf> [Accessed 10 November 2010].
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Script Atlas Robotic Research KUKA Robotic Arm Featured research by Gramazio & Kohler into novel construction logics.
Script Atlas Robotic Research
fig. 1 ergonomics of Kuka robotic arm (section)
fig. 2 ergonomics of Kuka robotic arm (plan)
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Script Atlas Robotic Research
fig. 3 drawings for track mounted CNC arm, Gudel
Robotic Research Research into the Computer Numerical Control systems was undertaken in order to capture metric data on the robotics used within industrial production processes, ie. automotive manufacture. The specifications and ergonomics of the robotics have particular requirements and poise certain dangers for occupants. The manufactures of such robotic arms; KUKA and Gudel - both outline standards for the correct mounting, safety zones and maximum carrying capacity of the robots. Such considerations are an important design constraint to be taken into account when designing for industrial processes.
fig. 4 ROB, Gramazio & Kohler
PROTOTYPICAL URBANISM The Re-Processing of Huddersfield. Design Development of Studio Design Project.
Patrick Drewello Thesis Studio Design Project, Bachelor of Architecture Manchester School of Architecture 2011
HOW CAN MASSCUSTOMISATION DRIVE A NEW MODEL TOWN?
Lego Houses, Runcorn, New Town Model.
Prototypical Urbanism Contents Page
CONTENTS PAGE Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape.........................................................................84 [Theoretical Driver: Prototypical Urbanism]
Design Development: Site Survey.............................................................................................90 [Industrial Mapping] [Composite Industrial Network] [Physical Consideration] [Scheme Narrative]
Design Development: Programme...........................................................................................106 [Programme Development] [Mapping Housing Typologies] [Masterplan Principles] [Application of Programme onto Physical Site] [Factory-Owner Research] [Site-Wide Strategy Development]
Design Development: Plan......................................................................................................130 [Yorkon & Metric Programme] [Plan Development]
Design Development: Structural Bay......................................................................................134 [Parametric Model: Grasshopper] [Parametric Model: Definition & Parameter]
Design Development: Geometry..............................................................................................142 [Geometric Parameter] [Initial Karamba Exploration & Agenda]
Design Development: Sectional Exploration...........................................................................146 Smart Geometry 2011..............................................................................................................152 [Smart Geometry 2011] [Copenhagen 2011 - Landscape Research]
Roof Detail Design...................................................................................................................164 [Roof Detail Design - 1:500 Model]
Design Development: Masterplan...........................................................................................174 [Masterplan Development] [Masterplan Proposal]
Roof Detail Design...................................................................................................................178 [Roof Detail Design & Materiality] [Roof Penalisation and Materialisation]
Scheme Detail Design..............................................................................................................186 [Scheme Construction Sequence]
Final Drawing Set.....................................................................................................................190
Prototypical Urbanism Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape Theoretical Driver: Prototypical Urbanism
Utopian Resistance, Paternal Capitalism; Model Communities Utopia, is a critique and theoretical body of work on the societal and political conditions primarily within the west. The utopian movement reached it’s period of full mobilisation in the 1960s. As a ‘direct attack on modernism’ [Schrijver 2009, p. 199]. During this period, Utopia was the device by which a sense of ‘resistance’ developed. Characterised by a belief in the ‘perfectability of humanity’ [Tarlow 2002, p. 300]. Utopian schemes challenged traditional State and social hierarchies, and more ambitiously though, the capitalist system. They looked to achieve a form of autonomy which resisted the pressures of economics and politics [Duval and Monson 2005, p. 14]. More recently globalisation, or world capitalism, has had a dramatic impact upon all spectra of social, political and economic condition. Therefore, this discussion embraces the conception of capital and draws upon Utopia to provide a source of critical content. The linage of utopian inventions reveals models who did not ascribe to the period and ‘tactics of resistance’ [Schrijver 2009, p. 200] in totality. The utopian visions of facory-owner built model communities, promoted Paternalistic Capitalism. Ultimately the critique and failure of utopian visions is their proposition of an ‘end condition’ [Tarlow 2002, p. 304]. Paternalistic capitalism, as utopian visions and realisations, embraced capitalism whilst looking to resist the State and achieve social mobility. The implications of globalisation have enabled capital to surpassed the State, and have even begun to the challenge the socio-cultural meanings upon which the urban landscape is organised. Capital is not territorial. As Deleuze and Guattari have stated, capital’s victory over the State, is due to its ability at better deterritorialisation [Deleuze and Guattari 1988, p. 501]. Capital has the inherent ability to flow and transverse all forms of political, social and physical thresholds. Therein our discussion looks upon the impact of free-market ecologies and globalisation, thereby exploring the morphology of capitalism and urbanism. We see capital as crucial to our discussion and reject points of resistance toward it, particularly via any notion of socio-political ideology. As Deleuze and Guattari state, ‘there is only one world market, the capitalist one.’ [Deleuze and Guattari 1988, p. 503] Technologies (and physics) have always acted upon commodities, labour and our production processes. Furthermore, we are in a state of the digital renaissance, as Douglas Rushkoff states. [Rushkoff 2002, p. 16]. The adoption of computational and informational technologies are impacting upon the traditional paradigms of social, economic and urban constructs. Thus
fig. 1 promotional poster for Port Sunlight new town model
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we argue for a period of renaissance of utopian ideals and a resurgence of philanthropic effort. Inventions explored in; science fiction, nanotechnology for instance, poises novel realities, both for capitalism and urbanism. Paternalistic capitalists, pre-dated the welfare state, to provide welfare institutions for workers. Philanthropic industrialists of the Victorian period realised they could achieve gains in productivity if they offered improved conditions. Concurrently, in the US, the principles of the socio-economic theories of fordism, called for the organisation of society and the improved conditions for works to increase productivity and welfare, as well as the more recognised; embrace of mass-production and standardisation. This brought about the genesis of model communities, or model villages, by key paternalistic capitalists. In 1851, the Saltaire model by Titus Salt proved one of the first of such communities, as was the Port Sunlight model by Whilliam Hesketch Lever in 1888. As well as, the Bournville Village model by George Cadbury in 1879. Which established the Cadbury factory in Bournville, Birmingham, and provided worker housing and community facilities. To Salt, Lever and Cadbury, the key aspiration had been to provide better labour conditions through investment in worker housing and social facilities. The New Earswick model, by Joseph and Seebohm Rowntree in 1901, was created on the back of Seebohm’s Poverty: a study of town life. Philanthropism was a direct attack on social poverty and blight. Shortly after realisation, these models were adopted by Trusts to manage the estates; the Bournville Village Trust is still responsible for the administration, planning and furture development of Bournville, as are many others. Paternalistic capitalism, provides adequate housing, a community sense, and engenders social cohesion and stability. As has been argued convincingly by Emily Lang, ‘workers within a Paternalistic Capitalist company are more likely to be happy.’ [Lang 2009, p. 44].
Mobilisation, Globalisation, World Capitalism; the Toyota City Model. In 1945, the establishment of the Welfare State in Britain, saw the nationalisation of municipal and charitable foundations. The philanthropic efforts of individuals to provide welfare was superseded by the State control initiatives, under the Welfare State. A preference for socialism over capitalism grew. However, capitalism will always concur the State, as Deleuze and Guattari explain, ‘[…] capitalism is not short of war cries against the State, not only in the name of the market, but by virtue of its superior deterritorialization.’ [Deleuze and Guattari 1988, p. 501]. The rise of Thatcherism, brought about a privatisation of the public sector, and the death of the Welfare State. In the 1970s, we see; the liberalization of capital flows, deregulation of capital markets, the US dollar was floated on currency markets and the gradual mobilisation of the Chinese labour force. Concurrently new technologies allowed for a global connectivity. To Deleuze and Guattari, this period is of a ‘[…] integrated (or rather integrating) world capitalism, a new smooth space is produced in which capital reaches its “absolute” speed, based on machinic components rather than the human component of labor.’ [Deleuze and Guattari 1988, p. 543]. We can draw upon two models which have developed throughout this period; firstly, the Toyota City model, which has aims for high market share and engineering absolute workforce loyalty (the J-Form economy) [Lang 2009, p. 44]. Secondly, the Silicon Valley model, which has developed through a resistance to the mobilisation of eastern economies and an increased sense of regionalism. In the 1920s, Toyoda Automatic LoomWorks Ltd diversified into the auto-mobile market. Koromo became the base of the first Toyota factory, upon which Toyota has expanded since. Koromo was renamed to Toyota City, or toyota-shi, in 1959. The city embodies Toyota’s vision for an abundant society, based on an ‘auto-mobile
Prototypical Urbanism Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape society’. The Toyota City model is an example of a J-Form economy, the aim of which is to ‘increase market share and engineer absolute loyalty of the workforce’ [Lang 2009, p. 43]. A J-Form economy can be likened to Paternalistic Capitalism. In the case of Toyota City, Toyota has provided facilities and investment in an effort to generate a community dependant upon Toyota and its auto-mobile agenda. In 1978, saw the establishment of the Toyota Citizens’ pledge, designed to embody the aspirations of a abundant and prosperous society. The pledge is as follows [Toyota 2010, p. 39]; “We, Toyota Citizens, as we face the future from our land blessed with beautiful mountains and rivers, from which we can see the Seven States, while handing down the rich history and traditions of our old textile hamlet, Koromo, to future generations, hereby proudly renew our pledge: To nurture greenery, to protect our rivers and to respect the rich nature around us; To value the benefits of sport, to broaden the our knowledge and raise the level of culture; To work with a willing spirit and raise healthy children in a happy family atmosphere; To help one another and to broaden our circle of friends, so as to warm our city with friendship; To revere life and to abide by the law, in order to make our society a safe and pleasant one to live in.”
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‘imbued with principles of university-industry cooperation’ [Adams 2003, p. 527], to form the foundations upon which Silicon Valley evolved. Therein a pre-cluster initiative, Silicon Valley is rather the result of an extremist sense of regionalism, as a western response to globalisation. As Stephen Adams states; “The region’s perceived exploitation at the hands of eastern interests fueled booster-like attempts to build indigenous and self-sufficient local industry” [Adams 2003, p. 523]. ‘The outgrowth of a pervasive western regionalism’ [Adams 2003, p. 522] became a catalyst, for the urban morphology, now better described as a cluster initiative. In 1946, Frederick Terman became dean of Stanford’s School of Engineering. His polemics paralleled those of the university’s regionalism, and his work on promoting Stanford into a prototypical university, would later earn him the title of ‘father of Silicon Valley’. Termans contribution towards a knowledge economy became paramount to Silicon Valley, as Adams discusses, “[he] would help attract the necessary brains to the area and would help make Stanford into the prototypical university anchor to catalyze the development of a high-tech region.” [Adams 2003, p. 526].
Privatization offers renewed opportunities for autonomy from State control. The death of the Welfare State has seen a resurgence of philanthropic efforts by multinationals and corporations, and an increase of Corporate Social Responsibility. Moreover this shift suggests a gradual adaptation of economic strategies upon the planning and policy of our landscape. As Duval and Monson state, “Privatization is a trend in cities and nations occurring globally, loosely defined for our purposes as the death of the welfare state in favor of market driven planning and development strategies and outcomes.” [2005, p. 14].
Regionalism, Cluster Development, Knowledge Capital; the Silicon Valley Model The emergence of cluster initiatives, as a realisation, has seen the convergence of the State, the corporation and academia. The cluster concept was first proposed by Michael Porter in 1990; as a response to sustain corporate competitiveness within a global marketplace. Porter argues that, companies require home bases which stimulate innovation and provide global competitiveness. Clusters, it is argued provide an organisation of facilities which promotes a state of continuously innovation. As Porter states [Porter 1990, p. 86]; fig. 2 illustration showing Silicon Valley corporate headquarters
“Once a cluster forms, the whole group of industries becomes mutually supporting. Benefits flow forward, backward, and horizontally. Aggressive rivalry in one industry spreads to others in the cluster, through spin-offs, through the exercise of bargaining power, and through diversification by established companies.” The effects of diversification, and clustering, may also be seen within the distribution of differing social groups across the urban landscape. As Claritas, a geodemographic company states, “Increasing diversification from immigration, economic changes, and greater choice produce a landscape composed of radically small minorities” [Varnelis 2008, p. 30]. To Porter, the ‘cluster becomes a vehicle for maintaining diversity and overcoming the inward focus, inertia, inflexibility’ [Porter 1990, p. 87]. As an exemplar to the evolved condition of clustering initiatives; Silicon Valley presents a interesting insight into the genesis of such a phenomena. In the 1890s, Stanford University a regional university, featured strong aspirations to meet the needs of nearby communities. The Universitys’ regionalism aligned with existing local high-tech firms,
David Turnbull, in GMCity: the Genetically Modified City (2001), has discussed the general implications of the emergence of, what he calls, the GMCity. In which we see the ‘transformation of the back office zone into a world class urban accumulation’ [Turnbull 2002, p. 74], a condition for which Turnbull cites; Vittorio Gregotti’s principle of atopia, in which the model of socio-cultural and urban principles are not engendered by the idea of place. Futhermore, the operation of GMCity requires an urbanism of adaptation and rebranding. Such cities are based on strategic diagram. In his discussion Turnbull draws parallels with Ebenezer Howard’s Garden City movement, as he states, “any problems have been designed out, happiness has been designed in.” [Turnbull 2002, p. 74]. Fundamentally such strategies see the implementation of genetic engineering of the urban, and to ‘achieve the planned eradication of urban dysfunction, and to maximise attractiveness in the global economy, successful areas are cloned’ [Turnbull 2002, p. 75]. The GMCity and atopia, seems to evidence a fundamental shift in policy towards strategies and planning logics.
Daltonworks, Huddersfield The selected site for the studio design project is the ICI Daltonworks site within the industrial corridor of Huddersfield.
Prototypical Urbanism Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape Computation, Automation, Universal Capitalism; Mass-Customisation as a Model Technology (and physics) defines society. From earliest notion of commodities and labour in Europe, technological inventions that have brought about regularization and routinization [Moe 2010, p. 155]. Such conditions which in Deleuzian terminology, we may call the act of striation of capital, time and labour. Technology, has always been tied to societal factors, fundamentally technology is of society, as Deleuze states, “any technology is social before it is technical.” [Deleuze cited in Moe 2010, p. 153]. Moreover, technology has a inherent influence upon the organisation logics within socioeconomic theory (and critique). As is evidenced by Manuel Castells’ exploration of the relationships ‘between technological advances and the transformation of capitalism.’ [Ghent Urban Studies Team 1999, p. 50]. Castells, would seem to drawn upon the discussion had by Deleuze and Guattari and others, when discussing the flows of capital and its’ ability for deterritorialisation within an integrated world capitalism. Drawing upon the developments both in technology and organisation, Castells argues, social meaning has been reconstructed ‘in a space of flows’ [Ghent Urban Studies Team 1999, p. 50]. A superseding of place by the scape of flows. The flows of capital and space is further explored upon by Saskia Sassen. Her view is of a new geography of centrality, therein which global capital centres have greater connectivity with other global centres, rather then their regional cities [Ghent Urban Studies Team 1999, p. 51]. A theory which certainly is supported by the work seen in geodemographic and evolution of models of Silicon Valley and Turnbulls’ GMCity. Technology, Castells argues, has transformed the late capitalist production processes to change fundamentally the traditional hierarchies between cities. [Ghent Urban Studies Team 1999, p. 50]. In conclusion, technology is inherent to any societal system, technology establishes connectivities and organisational logics which impacting upon the social and the economic, driven via the deterritorialised flow of capital. Furthermore, the specific technological innovation and socio-cultural condition which has been explored by Castells and others, is the rise of network culture, and its impact upon the fragmentation of social hierarchies and organisations. Which has lead to a rise of personalisation, ‘a primacy of the individual’ [Schrijver 2009, p. 199], and the generation of ever expansive networks. “In postsuburbia, spatial and sociocultural fragmentation is accompanied by the development of vast networks.”[Ghent Urban Studies Team 1999, p. 47]. Capitalism, as economist Ernest Mendel has proposed, has presented itself in three moments; market capitalism, monopoly capitalism and late capitalism [Chu 2002, p. 128]. Late capitalism being our current state, however this presents a problematic definition as it consists of an end condition. Sheppard and White challenge this and suggest, rather then being in late capitalism, ‘which signifies an end – we are in an age of advanced capitalism, a perfected and hyper-efficient form of it.’ [Sheppard and White 2005, p. 127]. To them, the condition at the periphery, are the result of a ‘militarization and Taylorization of the economic and physical landscape’ [Sheppard and White 2005, p. 127].
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conceptions of scarcity and value within capital markets, ‘it would turn the whole world on its head; steak could be grown in meat machines no bigger than a microwave.’ [Spiller 2002, p.15]. Karl Chu, has speculated upon the further incorporation of computational and informational inventions into capital systems, he proposes a future state of universal capitalism. As Chu states, “The virtual economy of cyberspace […] has already begun to revolutionise the mechanism of communication, exchange and production and will do so even more radically once capitalism saturates itself with the logic of genetic processes into its system” [2002, p. 128].
Innovation, Specialisation; Prototypical Urbanism (Proposition) In the era of individualisation, privatization and established network culture; the challenge we face is the appropriation of capital for investment into regional microeconomies. How do we tap into the new geography of centrality? Our discussion of the evolution of capital has been in direct relation to notions of production, technological innovation and socio-economic strategies. Principally network ecologies fragment traditional spatial logics, world capitalism favours toward market driven planning and development strategies, here we see a shift in the organisation of the urban; an overall inclusion of planning and fiscal logics. Conversely, we are experiencing a societal shift in media consumption and information aggregation, leading to an interest in eccentric, niche and the bespoke. Therein, and drawing upon the philanthropic aspirations discussed at the beginning, we propose a model community composed of the convergence of Paternalistic Capitalism and continuous innovation; for the betterment of a regional area, in both social and economic terms. Thus, presented here is a quasi-utopian vision, we call; the mass-production of non-standard components. Huddersfield is already the home base of excellent, often novel, facilities for the manufacturing of advanced and specialised products. It is established with a relatively strong regional connectivity for such facilities to expand and diversify. To build upon the opportunities of the existing expertise and skill base, it is proposed that the diversification of Huddersfield manufacturing base via a Factory for Innovative in Construction Technologies to promote continuous innovation, would lead to clustering of existing and new manufacturing facilities, significantly boosting the competitiveness and specialisation of skills, knowledge and services. It is proposed that this Factory will manufacture volumetric prefabricated housing on mass, and reorganise the existing landscape to provide worker housing and communal facilities, a paternalistic gesture; which both establishes corporate control over its labour force and provides greater social welfare and cohesion. Moreover the community model will be subject to continuous innovation and recoding, with the aspiration to establish a linage of prototypical housing typologies within the model community.
“The multinationals fabricate a kind of deterritorialized smooth space in which points of occupation as well as poles of exchange become quite independent of the classical paths of striation.” [Deleuze and Guattari 1988, p. 543] Innovation and further proliferation of digital technologies may further modify capitalism. Science Fiction, certainly has use new technologies to speculate upon their impact upon social and urban conditions, as a source of utopian content, this present extreme visions of the future. For instance; K Eric Drexler, in Engines of Creation 1990, [Spiller 2002, p. 14] conceives a future where all matter is reconfigurable, via nanotechnology, fundamentally challenging the
fig. 3 diagram of iterative production process for factory proposal
Factory facilities will be provided for two primary areas of production process, these are; Research/ Development and Automated Production. The former being defined as a iterative process, which implements full prototyping and testing of worker housing, the latter,
Prototypical Urbanism Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape is the traditional linear process, which incorporates automation technologies, from the aerospace and auto-mobile industries, for the mass production of developed housing typologies. The strategic aims are the increase of productivity, manufacturing specialisation and to engender knowledge capital. Research and development will be carried out within Huddersfield, upon existing areas of dense manufacturing facilities, the test bed will be the worker housing units. It is proposed that clusters of social worker housing will be distributed across a dense landscape of infrastructural manufacturing processes. Such pockets of housing stock will provide a test bed to prove novel technologies and non-standard components, continuously redesigned via a iterative research and development process. This system introduces a feedback-loop between worker and factory. It is intended that the strategies and organisational logics of our system may prove applicable as a global model for manufacturing. Our vision for Huddersfield is to become a prototypical urbanism.
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Bibliography Adams, B., S., (2003) Regionalism in Stanford’s Contribution to the Rise of Silicon Valley. Enterprise & Society 2003 4(3). pp 521-543 Chu, K., (2002) The Unconscious Destiny of Capital (Architecture in Vitro/ Machinic in Vivo). In: Leach, N., Turnbull, D., and Williams, C., (eds.) Designing for a Digital World. London, Wiley & Sons. pp 127 – 133. Deleuze, G., and Guattari, F., (1988) A Thousand Plateaus: Capitalism and Schizophrenia. Trans. Brian Massumi. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press. Duval, A., and Monson, K., (2005) Autonomous Urbanism. 306090 2005 08. pp 14-16. Ghent Urban Studies Team (1999) The Urban Condition: Space, Community, and Self in the Contemporary Metropolis. Rotterdam: 010 Publishers. pp 4855. Lang, E., (2009) Paternalistic Capitalism. In: Dunn, N., & Brook, R., (eds.) Isolative Urbanism: an Ecology of Control. Manchester, Bauprint_. pp 43 – 55. Moe, K. (2010) Automation Takes Command: The Nonstandard, Unautomatic History of Standardisation and Automation in Architecture. In: Corser, R. (ed.), Fabricating Architecture: Selected Readings in Digital Design and Manufacturing. Princeton Architectural Press, New York. Pp 86-92. PricewaterhouseCoopers (2009) The future of UK manufacturing: Reports of its death are greatly exaggerated. http://www.pwc.co.uk/pdf/ UKmanufacturing_300309.pdf [accessed 23 November 2010]. Porter, M., E., (1990) The Competitive Advantage of Nations. Harvard Business Review. http://asesoriainternacional.com/Clases%20URN/The_Competitive_ Advantage_of_Nations.pdf [accessed 11 January 2011]. Rushkoff, D., (2002) The Digital Renaissance. In: Leach, N., Turnbull, D., and Williams, C., (eds.) Designing for a Digital World. London, Wiley & Sons. pp 73-78. Schrijver, J. (2009) Radical Games: Popping the Bubble of1960s’ Architecture. Rotterdam: NAi Publishers. pp 199 – 241. Sheppard, L., and White, M., (2005) Flatscape: Exurbanism and Infrastructural Landscape. In Benites, C., and Lyster, C., (eds.) Regarding Public Space. 306090 2005 09. pp 126 – 137. Spiller, N., (2002) Cyber Reader: Critical Writings for the Digital Era. Phaidon Press. pp. 6-20. Tarlow, S., (2002) Excavating Utopia: Why Archaeologists Should Study “Ideal” Communities of the Nineteenth Century. International Journal of Historical Archaeology, Vol. 6, No. 4, December 2002. Turnbull, D., (2002) GMCitySM: the Genetically Modified City (2001). In: Leach, N., Turnbull, D., and Williams, C., (eds.) Designing for a Digital World. London, Wiley & Sons. pp 73-78. Toyota (2010) Toyota City: 2010 Toyota City Guide Book. http://www.city.toyota.aichi.jp/division/aa00/aa04/1193106/all.pdf [accessed 12 January 2011]. Varnelis, K., (2008) Network Publics. Cambridge, The MIT Press. pp 15-44.
Prototypical Urbanism Theoretical driver for re-processed landscape
fig. 4 illustrates the dual forms of production which drive the scheme programme
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Future of Manufacturing A report published on the future of manufacturing within the UK by PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Site Survey
fig. 1 Scope of research area of Huddersfield
Mapping Industry The studio agenda directed the thematic and criteria of mapping the site. The industrial aspects of Huddersfield were analysed via a multitude of scales of focus. The above shows the scope of data and analysis undertaken. The aim was to establish and understanding of the current conditions of the industrial base within Huddersfield, speculate and narrow focus onto a series of possible sites for further development. The resultant mapping can be seen in the next few pages which illustrate differing properties of industrial data, densities and urban connectivity. Additionally research into official reports and papers was undertaken. In particular, the PriceWaterhouseCooper report on ‘the Future of Manufacture’ proved an important source for strengthening the arguments made in the theoretical statement, that specialisation of skill-base will lead to future profitability. As summary of the key points of the report is outlined below: Recommnedation to Government: greater clarity and public awareness strategic development of UK manufacturing need to be broader active and co-ordinated R&D is critical deficit of skilled technical workers in the UK is becoming acute encourage the further development of manufacturing ‘clusters’ analogous to Silicon Valley Recommendation to UK Manufacturing Leaders: unique knowledge and capabilities concentration of customisation take full advantage of government support champion for you buisness and your industry
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Industrial Mapping The following is the meso mapping analysis of industrial densities within Huddersfield for site selection
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fig. 1 Industrial Intensity 300m
fig. 5 Reginal Location
fig. 2 Industrial Intensity 200m
fig. 6 Industrial Network (MESO)
fig. 3 Industrial Intensity 150m
fig. 7 Industrial Assets (MESO)
fig. 4 Industrial Intensity 50m
fig. 8 Industrial Network
Composite Industrial Network Leading on from the regional mapping of industrial assets within Huddersfield, a site was selected at the city scale. The site selection was based on the most intensification of existing industrial elements within the current landscape of Huddersfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial base. Furthermore, reading into existing concepts of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;clusteringâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, the act of increasing specialisation and densification of the most concentrated existing condition is in line with the urban strategy of clustering. Further analysis of the site identified it as an industrial park, owned by chemical industrial company ICI. Due to the scale of the industrial site, the site selection was further developed to be only part of the ICI site. Additional research of OS Cad plans and building applications revealed that the current building stock on-site was significantly reduced. This is illustrated to the left by bolder lines of connectivity between industrial points, these should be considered as industrial assets which have been demolished or lost since the latest OS maps. The analysis of industrial assets lead directly to the initial selection of a specific site within the industrial complex. The mapping which followed considered other aspects of physical and typological properties of the existing site, these further informed the site selection and site boundary generation.
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fig. 1 Industrial Corridor
fig. 6 Settlement Map
fig. 2 Industrial Sites Footprint
fig. 7 GreenSpace Map
fig. 3 Industrial Distribution
fig. 8 Primary Atrial Routes
fig. 4 Industrial Network
fig. 9 Waterways
fig. 5 Composite Industrial Map
fig. 10 Contours
Physical Considerations The physical characteristics, organisation and infrastructural connectivity all were considered within the mapping of the site context. These properties formed important data sets upon which masterplaning decisions would later be based. Furthermore, this understanding would later drive the strategic application of the programme narrative upon the site. The site is located within, what the council has termed, Dalton Corridor. This is the strtegic industrial site of Huddersfield which links directly to a series of comprehensive industrial assets both regionally and nationally. The planning and policy established by the council is that this area be developed further with industrial programme to strength the existing economic base. The connectivity of the Dalton Corridor to the national motorway network and direct connectivity to Leeds in particular provides great strategic advantages of any industrial site within this area. The topology of the existing site is such that the industrial city is flanked by suburban residential developments which are located at higher planes, which overlooking the industrial complex. Currently on-site road networks are privatised and access to the site is controlled via the security office from the A62.
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fig. 1 Topography of Site
fig. 6 Noise Map of Site
fig. 2 Daltonworks 1919
fig. 7 OS 1850
fig. 3 Daltonworks 1923
fig. 8 OS 1900
fig. 4 Dalton Factory 1913
fig. 9 OS 1960
fig. 5 Daltonworks 2002
fig. 10 OS 1980
Scheme Narrative The site analysis of Daltonworks has informed the specific site selection and strategic approach to the given context. Within the established industrial complex a series of brownfield sites had been identified which additional highlighted areas of opportunity and constraints. The map to the left illustrates the existing assets, brownfields and greenfields â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this map was used to strengthen the site selection based on industrial density. Furthermore this analysis established an understanding of possible areas for differing typologies of programme. Historically the industrial complex has undergone a gradual morphology, but has always since inception been occupied by industrial programme. The site in particular, as suburbs have expanded, has been flanked by residential accommodation, this may prove an interesting direction / relationship to explore the complexities of residential and industrial densification and proximity.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
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FLOW OF PRODUCTION
fig. 1 illustrates the production processes which drive the programme narrative
Programme Development The programme looks to integrate within the thematic driver established at the outset. The development and articulation of the programme have been developed in tandem with site analysis, precedence analysis and research design. The following diagrams illustrate a complex relationship between two key forms of production. Firstly, cyclical iterative process which is the generative driver of the scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; generates novel housing typologies for the workforce of the factory. The second, a more linear process â&#x20AC;&#x201C; embraces the established mass production and methods of Toyotism, as the economic model which drives the financial and business plan of the scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to generate volumetric housing via automotive and robotic technologies.
fig. 2 illustrates the production processes
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
SYNERGETIC INSERTION (WITH ICI) TECHNOLOGICAL SYSTEMS
fig. 3 the environmental systems derived via the production process
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
fig. 4 strategic programme relational diagram
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Programme Development & Housing Typologies The programme and existing site conditions required further investigation, upon completion of the programme diagrams. The following are a series of studies of the housing typologies which are within 10 minutes walking distance of the site. These studies looked to identify character areas and establish and understanding of the organisation of housing plots within the site context. This research proved useful to inform strategic approaches made later within the masterplaning strategy of the scheme.
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Daltonwork, Huddersfield A site survey was conducted to identify any constraints and opportunities on site for development.
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
fig. 1 identify brownfields within site.
fig. 2 distribute housing to periphery of site.
fig. 3 divide housing sites into character areas.
fig. 4 locate production near existing industry.
fig. 5 utilise existing road infrastructure.
fig. 6 integral layout of urban typologies.
Strategic SUmmary: D
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PV ARRAY
fig. 7 green surfaces reduce audial & air pollutants. natural ventilation via surface apertures in envelope conditions.
fig. 8 heat recovery from existing & proposed industry. green surfaces buffer housing & reduce pollution.
fig. 9 PV Solar System on factory roof surface. Solar power used for street facilities & housing.
fig. 10 storm water recycling system on factory roof. Gray water distributed to housing and factory facilities.
fig. 11 embedded ETFE system / aperture control of natural lighting. Solar collection skin / facade with Passive user control.
Industrial landscape synergetic integrated energy and waste. social cohesion. Public Realm better air, less noise. diverse landscape. surface as landscape. embedded technologies / systems. strong brand identity.
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fig. 12 micro environmental opportunities and constraints
Development of Site-Wide Masterplan Principles The strategic development of the masterplaning strategy from inception was dominated by dual approaches; firstly strategic organisational principles and secondly environmental opportunity principles. For each aspect of the diagramming of the masterplan exercise a environmental strategy was conceived in tandem to allow for a more holistic response to the existing site conditions. Principally the approach was to amplify the existing industry and segregate the proposed residential assets towards the periphery of the site boundary. Environmental device and surface would act to buffer the two typologies and was exploit the ample opportunities these moves proved, for the purpose of renewable energies and reuse. The approach within the scheme was to utilise a series of surfaces which acted to perform differing tasks. This analogy was carried forward into all aspects of the scheme.
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
fig. 1 initial exploration of residential and industrial relationships
PROPOSED GREEN SPACE & SURFACE GREENFIELDS DIVERSITY
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INTEGRATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEM WITHIN FACTORY ROOF WATER TANK PV ARRAY TO PROVIDE ENERGY TO OFFICE AND PUBLIC REALM STORM WATER RECYCLING SYSTEM OPEN SPACE PRINCIPLE GREEN SURFACE BUFFER SERVICE SYSTEM HUB PROPOSED PUBLIC REALM EXISTING OVERHEAD SERVICES RUN
fig. 2 environmental strategy
Application of Programme onto Physical Site The aspect of the scheme which required further diagrammatic and strategic work was the factory component of the proposal. The production processes within the factory were modified and transposed unto the proposed site constraints. The functional elements of the factory could then be planned to ensure the operations could work within the scope of the site context and the initial proposed masterplan strategy. The transposition of the production processes allowed for a better understanding of the requirement and operational needs of the factory. The relationship between residential and industrial was of paramount importance still to this stage of the design considerations.
MAIN PRODUCTION PROCESS LINE ASSOCIATED PROGRAMME AREAS MESO PROGRAMME RELATIONSHIP
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
SOCIAL PROGRAMME/ GREEN SPACE
fig. 1 analysis of Port Sunlight Masterplan
Factory-Owner Masterplan Models To form a better understanding of the typologies of Factory-Owner driven worker housing a series of analytical studies of precedent projects were undertaken. As is discussed in the theoretical proposal at the start, these are the models of paternal capitalism. The drive was to ensure good and healthy workers to increase productivity. As is clear from the promotional material and the masterplans these schemes were routes strongly within the Garden City movement. Of particular interest to the principles developed for the proposed masterplan, the Port Sunlight plan, drove a clear and distinct series of rules which enabled the workers to fundamentally achieve an aspect of countryside within a dense urban environment.
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fig. 2 promotional material from Port Sunlight as village model
fig. 3 plan of village Port Sunlight - Unilever, 1914
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
fig.4 analysis of Bournville, Cadbury
fig. 5 analysis of Saltaire, Salt
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fig. 6 promotional material from Bournville model village
fig. 7 The Garden City Utopia, Howard
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Programme
EXISTING CHP OVERHEAD SERVICES INFRASTRUCTURE
FLEXIBLE FACTORY FACILITIES TO SUPPORT RESEARCH LABORATORIES & COMPONENT FABRICATION
PRIMARY FACTORY VOLUME & DISTRIBUTION. COMPONENT ASSEMBLY, GOODS IN/OUT AND MAIN PRODUCTION PROCESS
PUBLIC REALM, GREEN SURFACE & PUNCTURES IN ENVELOPE FOR PUBLIC ACCESS
FACTORY STORE & TESTING FACILITIES TEMPORARY & SHOWROOM HOUSING STOCK CHARACTER AREAS OF WORKER HOUSING
OPEN SPACE PINCIPLE & WORKER SOCIAL FACILITIES.
fig. 1 diagrammatic masterplan strategy played out on site constraints
fig. 2 strategic section of building systems within masterplan strategy
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EXISTING CHP FACTORY SITE
OVERHEAD SERVICE RUN
fig. 3 existing CHP plant
RESEARCH FACTORY / OFFICES / PUBLIC REALM PRIMARY PRODUCTION FACTORY BUILDING
SURFACE CONNECTION TO SHOWROOM PROPOSED NEW CARRIAGEWAY
CHARACTER HOUSING AREAS
HOUSING STORE
fig. 4 strategic masterplan principles
OPEN SPACE PRINCIPLE
PROPOSED PUBLIC REALM INTEGRATION (GREEN SURFACE)
GREEN SURFACE AS AUDIAL & AIR POLLUTION BUFFER
fig. 5 integration of environmental strategy
Site-Wide Strategy Development The initial strategic principals were played out on the site. These early massing and strategic diagrams show the response to the site, programme and masterplan principles. These initial diagrams also allowed for a laying of differing agendas to be unified and expressed within one representation. From the development of this massing study further decisions could be made with regard to the principles and site-wide strategies.
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Plan
fig. 1 material manipulator
fig. 2 construction automaton system
fig. 3 remote earthmoving equipment
fig. 4 remote excavation system
fig. 7 programme schedule
Yorkon & Metric Programme
fig. 5 remote trowel system
Building upon the research undertaken into the metrics of robotics within the previous section, research into additional automation machinery was undertaken and furthermore precedence research into Yorkon was undertaken to establish an understanding of the requirements of large scale production of volumetric housing. The above programme metrics were developed in accordance with the requirements and facilities at Yorkon and the research capacity for ten laboratories.
Case Study: Yorkon The current conventions of pre-fab construction are largely inefficient and present opportunities for automation.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Plan
fig. 1 initial concept for plan organisation
fig. 2 iterative path optimisation for defined circulation nodes
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fig. 3 initial concept for plan organisation
Plan Development
fig. 4 initial concept for plan organisation
The plan development is informed by a functional organisation of the programme. Public Realm and office programme acts to negotiate between the industrial and residential programme of the scheme. The initial development of the plan was derived from a series of explorations both via sketches and scripted environments to explore the programme and circulation.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Structural Bay
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fig. 2 development and stress testing of initial structural bay
Structural Bay Development Following established analysis and design criteria for the structural bay. Drawings were developed into 3D models and testing using FEA structural analysis software. The resultant analysis of stresses and forces gives an indicative overview of the structural competence of the modular structural bay.
fig. 1 initial structural bay concepts
Following the design development of the structural language and component assembly of the structure - the envelope was taken under consideration. The natural systems of branching or l-systems poise interesting possibilities for management of facade perforation and ornamentation.
Structural Bay The development of the 3-D 3 model has been an output of several iterations to achieve the final proposed design.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Structural Bay
WAVE-FORM ROOF STRUCTURE ETFE & STANDING SEEM ALUMINIUM (COMPLEX CURVE GEOMETRY)
WELDED STEEL COMPONENT WAVE-FORM FRAME
GANTRY LIFTING SYSTEM
STEEL SUB-STRUCTURE FOR GANTRY TRACK SYSTEM
CONCRETE STRIP FOUNDATIONS WELDED STEEL COLUMNS BOLT FIXED TO CONCRETE PAD PLATE FOUNDATION STANDARD STEEL COLUMNS SUB-STRUCTURE BOLT FIXED TO PAD PLATE FOUNDATION
CONCRETE FLAT SLAB REINFORCED FACTORY FLOOR
PILE FOUNDATION SYSTEM
fig. 1 structural tactics (BDACC development)
Parametric Model: Grasshopper The development of a parametric model has been undertaken upon a section of the structural bay of the proposed factory design. This design scope has enabled the articulation of parametric definitions for the construction technologies of the roof design within a practical set of parameter, ie. full implementation of this model upon the full roof surface at the outset would have presented increased complexity. The development of a generic structural bay has afforded variability and adaptation during the development and iteration of the model. The model developed has been generated via Grasshopper. The previews created within Grasshopper have enabled the iterative developed of functioning and competent parametric definitions for the generation of complex geometry organisation and detail design. The onset advantages of a practical parametric model allow for design changes and design exploration of alternative design solutions. Therefore the front-loading and time investment in generating this model at the outset of the structural development provides significant advantages for later adaptation, modification and iterative design during later stages in the design process. The creation of the parametric model has been undertaken during close consultation with the Structural Engineering consultant from BDP. The following then is a direct response to a post-BDACC structural and material strategy, through consultant-driven and structural precedent integration; the structural strategies and tactics have been further developed, in parallel with the parametric model. The fundamentals and inherent parameter of this model are upscalable to any desired surface geometry. Therefore the presented model can be seen as an indicative design proposal to the generic construction sequences and technologies employed throughout the whole extent of the proposed factory roof. Envelope and interior surface conditions have been identified as the next stage of design development within the model, and the proposed design. It is proposed that these design considerations be explored through sectional and plan drawings to develop the required articulation and complexity before implementation into the parametric model. Furthermore, the theme of surface is to extend within these conditions and parameters, therein the proposed design development directs an agenda which results in the integration of multi-surface performance, or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;deepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surface.
fig. 2 parametric 3-D model of structural bay
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Model Development The development of the 3-D model has been an output of several iterations to achieve the final proposed design.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Structural Bay
Parametric Model: Definition & Parameter The development of a parametric model has been undertaken upon a section of the structural bay of the proposed factory design. This design scope has enabled the articulation of parametric definitions for the construction technologies of the roof design within a practical set of parameter, ie. full implementation of this model upon the full roof surface at the outset would have presented increased complexity. The development of a generic structural bay has afforded variability and adaptation during the development and iteration of the model.
Definition Development The development of the 3-D model has been an output of several iterations to achieve the final proposed design.
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Geometry
Geometric Parameter The exploration of structural and geometric organisation was further developed upon the parameterised structural bay (previously discussed). Building upon the parametric linkages constructed within Grasshopper definitions, the next phase was to develop the geometric configuration of the space structure using a plug-in for Grasshopper, called Karamba. Karamba utilises Finite Element rule-sets to simulate loads, stressed and material behaviours in real-time. Thereby the program allows for performative linkages to be established on top the existing parametric
fig. 1 sketches exploring geometric configuration and material build-up
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Geometry
fig. 2 Michael Weinstock, CAAD Lecture, 2011.
Architectural Form Parameter: Michael Weinstock The work of Michael Weinstock explored natural systems and social organisations of components. This lecture at CAAD discusses a series of principles and rules which are found in nature to generate form and topology.
Component Principles Interesting to Weinstock’s discussion is the topic of components, a topic which in architecture is very fashionable. However, Weinstock discusses the relation between components and nature - a misconception is that bottom-up processes can be applied to whole cities, or artefacts - however within Nature this principle does not function. According to Weinstock, natural system used both bottomup and top-down hierarchies - he calls this a ‘hierarchical component system’. This principle is to inform the design development of the component topology for the design studio project.
Architectural Form The key principle to form generation within nature can be defined, according to Weinstock as; form to gain energy from its’ environment - this is also known as the Constructural Law. This principles within nature determines architectural form. It is proposed this agenda will inform the further design development of the roof topology and morphology.
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fig. 2 nurb surface generated by parametric control points (in red)
fig. 1 nurb surface generated by two input curves
Karamba: Finite Element Constraints The exploration of structural and geometric organisation was further developed upon the parameterised structural bay (previously discussed). Building upon the parametric linkages constructed within Grasshopper definitions, the next phase was to develop the geometric configuration of the space structure using a plug-in for Grasshopper, called Karamba.
fig. 3 nodal points projected upon nurb surface by Karamba
Karamba utilises Finite Element rule-sets to simulate loads, stressed and material behaviours in real-time. Thereby the program allows for performative linkages to be established on top the existing parametric linkages (in Grasshopper). On a practical level this allowed the functionalities of both the parametric model within Grasshopper and the Finite Element simulation within Karamba to work in parallel, informing and guiding design decision making. Karamba was used as a tool to develop the structural competence and organisation of the space structure of the roof.
Initial Karamba Exploration & Agenda The initial step was to continue development of the section of the whole roof structure, for practical and iterative reasons. The model which was initially constructed within Grasshopper and Karamba was a proof-of-concept model. On a technical level this involved taking the two input curve geometries used to construct the undulating surface into Grasshopper, applying parameters to each control point of these source curves and then construction linkages between the generated surface geometry and Karamba. Karamba enabled to simulation of fixed nodal points within the structural shell (shown in green) and established the vertical loads upon the full extent of the structure (shown in red).
fig. 4 forces, constraints and loads simulated by Karamba
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fig. 6 structural model render
fig. 7 screenshot of Karamba
Karamba: Smart Geometry 2011 The agenda of this studio design project was further explored during the Smart Geometry event in Copenhagen. Joining the Hybrid Space Structure Typologies Cluster, this proof-of-concept model was an introduction to the functionality of Karamba, pre-workshop event.
fig. 5 iteration of structural model
The intent was to develop further space structure models using Karamba at Smart Geometry, and to engage with the aims of the workshop to explore the space structure of Robert Le Ricolais (1960s). Further more the exploration of differing typologies of space structure had the potential to inform and space the design development of the studio project.
Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Sectional Exploration
Organisational Principles The principles of gradient and surface articulation as drivers of the spatial organisation are outlined here.
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Sectional Exploration
fig. 1 section BB illustrating level variation and surface integration
fig. 2 section AA illustrating gradient variation and programme relationships
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Sectional Exploration
fig. 3 roof to be composed of differing performative surfaces
Sectional Exploration The exploration of the sectional conditions of the factory enabled the exploration of organisation of programme and spatial relationships to develop. These studies would later inform the 3D models developed of the scheme. The driving premise behind the sectional organisation was to integrate the idea of surfaces throughout the scheme. The attempt was to achieve a configuration of differing surfaces which would organise and perform differing functions within the building. The public realm, factory and envelope would be surface changes and variation.
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Grid Shell Optimisation The following documents the process of developing a Finite Element driven structural grid shell.
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Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
fig. 1 Automorphic Tube, Robert LeRicolais (1960s)
Smart Geometry 2011: Hybrid Space Structure Typologies Cluster The aim of the Hybrid Space Structures Cluster is fundamentally to drive the exploration and testing of 3-D space structures. Popularised in the 1960s, recently this topic has seen resurgence as designers wilfully explore exotic topology and construct surfacebased architectures. The cluster is to look toward the work of Robert Le Ricolais and his space structure prototypes. Therein through the use of computational models and physical prototyping, the drive is to test and explore these systems to the edge condition of failure. The topic of 3-D space structures presents opportunities for hybridisation, novelty and innovation,therein such subject matter is ready for serious re-examination with a re-newed sense of performative sensibilities and rigour. For architecture and designers, the structural behaviours of such systems are not well known, or unintuitive. Conversely new computational inventions and simulations drive parallel processes. As an example,Evolutionary Structural Optimisation (ESO) utilises Finite Element Analysis and Genetic Algorithms to optimise structural solutions. These systems present a platform to deal directly with complexities and achieve a framework to direct informal learning. Through a synergistic coupling of abstract machine and human intuition, a parallel design process emerges. Therefore, this workshop will focus on the aspects of achieving an understanding of structural behaviours and material organisation as possibilities for architecture and building technology with all the different platforms and techniques now accessible to achieve the generation of topology and tectonics that are both inherently exotic and performative.
Individual Agenda The initial agenda and scope are aligned within the current structural and material strategies developed for the design studio project. At present, the primary structure is a undulating tubular steel grid shell structure supported via a triangular truss system as the troughs of the surface, fixed to a Y-shape steel column. The intent is to develop a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;deepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; surface, which will perform as; service, structure and envelope. Building upon the proposed grid shell structure, further undulated structures will be developed to address additional parameters of the surface. It was proposed that the SG event would enable the development of these surface structures, both as a form-finding and structural tolerance exercise.
fig. 2 tensegrity space frame within Karamba simulation
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Final Model The Un-deployed tensegrity space frame nearing assembly completion.
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fig. 3 tensegrity space frame within Karamba simulation
fig. 4 simulation of tensegrity unit
fig. 5 manufactured rods
fig. 6 tensegrity spaceframe
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
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fig. 7 physical development model to test tension, member lengths and pressures.
Process & Final Model Starting from an analysis of a classical tensegrity structure, dierent support conditions and load conditions have been inverstigated, using Karamba. The final design acts like a hanging model. Load is used as a design driver to exhibit a strongly deformed and ongoing deforming structure. What otherwise would just be an illustration of failure gets a new meaning, by perfectly adapting to the actual load.
fig. 8 un-deployed physical model
fig. 9 deployed physical model
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
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Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
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Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
Copenhagen 2011: Landscaping Research During the Smartgeometry event in Copenhagen research for the studio design project was undertaken into landscaping strategies. In particular, the SEB landscaping plan was of key interest as this strategy deals with a change in level and transition from ground to first floor. This strategy later informed aspects of the landscaping strategy proposed within the studio design project.
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Landscape Strategy The following strategy looks to connect separate building programme and typology via surface changes and integration.
Copenhagen Visit Additional to the workshop and landscape research general visits were made to buildings within Copenhagen
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
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Prototypical Urbanism Roof Detail Design
Roof Detail Design The detail design of the roof was developed via the fabrication of a 1:500 model of the full extent of the proposed roof surface. The geometry of the grid shell within the model was true to the proposed geometry grid proposed. This model enabled the full translation of the roof scape and enabled further dialogue of the design with tutors.
fig. 1 CAD files for laser cutter
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
Laser Cutting Model The model was fabricated on 2mm mdf sheeting via CAD drawings generated from the parametric model
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Physical Model 1:500 The fabricated roof model enabled the full communication of the roof surface scape during presentations
Prototypical Urbanism Roof Detail Design
Roof Detail Design - 1:500 Model The 1:500 model was fabricated using 2mm mdf sheeting to minimise the depth of material whilst retaining rigidity. Moreover the fabrication involved the cutting of 3 A1 sheets with approx 3 hours production time. The 3D parametric model was used to generate the CAD files, within the scope of the model were clear units for tolerances. On reflection the material and geometric considerations and tolerances used didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t achieve the required performance, thus the model became increasingly complex and prone to fabrication failure. However the production of the roof did enable a better understanding of the complex geometry and proved useful for presentation purposes.
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Unfolded Roof Geometry Further exploration of fabrication of the roof panelisation was explored in unfolding complex geometry
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fig. 2 3D model - optimised surface topology
fig. 3 initial panelisation strategies
Roof Detail Design Further development into the geometry and structure were undertaken. Some initial panellisation sketches and geometry considerations were explored here. Further development of the design established a simple geometry pattern which acted as both the performative skin and the structural surface. The sketches and renderings illustrate the development of an integrated surface strategy, within which multiple functions are achieved. Further fabrication into SLS models were explored however cost and scale constraints made these extremely difficult. Informed by research into grid shell structures and research from the Smartgeometry event, the solution for the roof seemed to a hybrid structure which could be modified and adapted at a later stage.
fig. 4 initial panelisation strategies
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fig. 5 3D model - hybrid space structure
fig. 6 3D model - hybrid space structure
fig. 7 panelisation proposal
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Prototypical Urbanism Design Development: Masterplan
fig. 1 Initial concept / development sketch for Masterplan proposal
MasterPlan Development The masterplan has been designed to embody the principles of the theoretical statement, this plan is inherently a realisation of organisational principles which align to the theme of paternal capitalism and a social corporate agenda. Inspired by Unileverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Port Sunlight in particular (and implementations of the garden city movement), the organisation has been based on the development of individual scenarios at various scales of enquiry. The established masterplan principles at inception (see BDACC) setout the general massing and placement of industry, residential and infrastructure. Building upon these principles, scenarios were developed to simulate the negotiation of the scheme on an individual based. Such speculation links directly with the theoretical and social aspiration of paternal capitalist, such as Cadbury, Lever etc. As their considerations focused on the conditions of individual workers.
fig. 2 1914 Plan of the Village of Port Sunlight (Unilever).
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fig. 3 Sketch showing considerations of hard-landscaping strategy
fig. 4 Sketch masterplan principles and rule-sets
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
Masterplan Proposal The final masterplan sketch which is influenced by the principles of Port Sunlight and layering of landscaping strategies.
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fig. 1 3D model showing roof structural strategy
fig. 2 3D model showing roof structural strategy
Roof Detail Design & Materiality The roof development was to be integral to the masterplan proposal, both functional and characteristic. The composition of the roof thus required considerations of both the programme and the aesthetics within the context of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s application. The following were initial considerations as to the aesthetic and composite properties the roof would perform.
fig. 3 3D model showing roof structural strategy
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Deepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Roof Composition Shows the development of both structural and material logics for the composition of a multi-topological surface.
Prototypical Urbanism Smart Geometry 2011
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fig. 1 Experimentation into variation of roof panelisation
fig. 2 solar irradiation map
Roof Panelisation and Materialisation The exploration of structural and geometric organisation was further developed upon the parameterised structural bay (previously discussed). Building upon the parametric linkages constructed within Grasshopper definitions, the next phase was to develop the geometric configuration of the space structure using a plug-in for Grasshopper, called Karamba. Karamba utilises Finite Element rule-sets to simulate loads, stressed and material behaviours in real-time. Thereby the program allows for performative linkages to be established on top the existing parametric linkages (in Grasshopper). On a practical level this allowed the functionalities of both the parametric model within Grasshopper and the Finite Element simulation within Karamba to work in parallel, informing and guiding design decision making. Karamba was used as a tool to develop the structural competence and organisation of
fig. 3 3D roof model with panel typologies
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fig. 4 structural bay composition
fig. 5 3D Model Development
Building Model The proposal was further developed within a 3D environment to address issues of construction and detail design.
Prototypical Urbanism Scheme Detail Design Scheme Construction Sequence The following illustrates the greater extent of the scheme construction sequence. The scope of the building envelope is to integrate within the systems of the whole scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; therefore the construction of the envelope and the relationship to the scheme is paramount. Existing industrial site is surveyed and tested for toxicology. Site is cleared and prepared for pile foundations to be drilled. Major groundwork for reinstated canal to be performed in parallel. Roadworks and hard-landscaping to be pre-construction to enable access and coordination. Pile foundations and caps to be constructed. Reinforced concrete flooring to be made good in factory. Columns for individual buildings and roof to be constructed. Secondary structures and fixings for services are added. External cladding, fire protection systems and concrete flooring are constructed within the individual buildings. Circulation finishes are made good. Buildings are sealed. Services are run within the scheme and internal finishes made good. Services are connected. Installation of ventilation systems, heating and lighting systems. ETFE membranes and secondary roof structure is installed. Landscaping irrigation system installed and further landscaping prepared for planting and surfaces. Building is occupied. Landscaping features are finalised and made good. Urban furniture is installed. Building machinery and robotics are installed. Building systems undergo testing and review.
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Prototypical Urbanism Scheme Detail Design
Detail Design & Visualisations The construction sequences and details were compiled in a series of renders which translated the 2D drawings into 3D representations. The detail design required for BRACC was integrated into the main production model which enabled the synthesis of the final drawings and the technology modules output. Furthermore, work continued on the renderings aspects of the model for the purpose of achieving final visuals and perspectives which would demonstrate occupancy, programme, materiality etc. The focus had been technical, however the final production required additional considerations.
Development Renders Further work was done on the 3D models to achieve the representation of materials and occupancy
Prototypical Urbanism Final Drawing Set
Final Drawing Set The following specifies the list of final drawings which are to be produced to present the scheme in totality. The reader is asked to find the attached A1 drawings, the contents of which is outlined below: REGIONAL PLAN SITE LOCATION PLAN MASTERPLAN PROPOSAL BUILDING PLAN LEVEL 00 BUILDING PLAN LEVEL 01 SECTION AA SECTION BB SECTIONAL PERSPECTIVE PERSPECTIVE VIEW 1 PERSPECTIVE VIEW 2 -MASTERPLAN MODEL -BDACC BRACC
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