ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STUDIO:
AIR PART B: CRITERIA DESIGN PAULINA PYTKA (637869)
B1. RESEARCH FIELD
GEOMETRY
LAVA – Green Void Green void is an exploration of flexible geometries that can be achieved in tension to obtain more from less. The material that was selected for this was lycra due to its plasticity and lightweight which allowed for efficient digital fabrication. Essentially, the shape of installation was not completely resolved until it was physically assembled in space because the design process was primarily concerned with addressing the parameters of the central atrium of Customs House Sydney (L-a-v-a.net 2015), which it would span in suspension. Nonetheless, the design outcome maintained the initial design principle of making more with less, creating the most efficient connections between the specified boundaries of the context.The result is not unlike a spider’s web or coral reef in the way that it responds to gravity, tension and growth (L-a-v-a.net 2015).
Skylar Tibbits – VoltaDom
SG2012 - Gridshell
VoltaDom is an installation that focuses on filling voids and creating boundaries.The system is not unlike a panelled surface. It consists of irregular doubly curved vaults modelled parametrically and unrolled into developable strips to facilitate assembly (Designplaygrounds 2011). The irregularity of these cells can be explained through a relationship of interdependence where each has a boundary that responds to its neighbours’.The result is thus highly adaptable being able to multiply and grow as a cell group to fill any given space (Arch2o 2015).
Gridshell is a study of material as a design parameter on its own (Smartgeometry 2015). Essentially, it focuses on the properties, size and limitations of timber, as well as the fabrication tools suitable to the treatment of it. The timber members used for the construction of the Gridshell were the products of extensive bending stress analysis that considered wood grain orientation and density (Smartgeometry 2015).These calculations were then incorporated into a parametric model where the timber members were visualised and bent along the geodesic lines of a relaxed surface.This synthesis of information later informed the selection of joinery techniques for the design (Smartgeometry 2015). In this way, it is shown how a feedback loop between parametric and structural models can be used to produce economical designs that minimize material waste.This notion is particularly relevant to the Gridshell as one of its design principles was to maximise the design’s ability to define space while minimising the amount of materials used for this.
Conceptual design implications, opportunities and fabrication concerns From the three precedents examined, three principle considerations regarding the research field of geometry have been identified.The first is the idea of efficiency whereby geometry is obtained from minimal use of materials, however striving for maximal architectural expression. The second consideration is that of materials and their treatment as a parameter, particularly their performance, which requires calculated specificity. Finally, there is an overarching implication for easy fabrication whether it be due to the flexibility of the material, the lack of it in its economical use or in the existence of a feedback loop between the parametric and structural models.
B2. CASE STUDY 1.0
GREEN VOID
SERIES 1: Variation in anchor points used with Kangaroo component. Variant A is an omission of one point on the original circle of naked edges. Variant B omits a portion of points along the aforementioned circles’ circumferences. Variant C employs only 4 axial points on the original circular edges. Variant D employs only one anchor point at the center of each circle.. SERIES 2: Variation in rest length. Variant A has a rest lengths of 0 that implies no change to the original form. Variant B has a rest length of 3 which shows an increase in tension in the mesh. Variants C and D have negative rest lengths, -1 and -2 respectively, showing the way in which the mesh can be relaxed and expanded.
SERIES 3: Application and variation of linear force density. Variant A has a force value of 100 which shows a strong redistribution of density towards the naked edges of the mesh. Variant B has a weaker redistribution achieved at a force value of 1. Variants C and D have negative force values, -1 and -100 respectively, showing an outward expansion of density. Variant D was quite extensive.
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B2. CASE STUDY 1.0
GRIDSHELL SERIES 1 FORM LOFT
Each of these series explores a different combination of three starting curves with variations in their division and subsequent offsetting of arcs to better articulate their gridshell form. Series 1 is the original grid shell. Series 2 is an alteration of the original to create a stronger sense of enclosure. Series 3 attempts to create a 3D gridwall. Series 4 attempts to employ the gridshell definition to create an effect of twisting and subsequently smoothing what would otherwise have been a more geometric, square based form.
SERIES 2 FORM LOFT
SERIES 3 FORM LOFT
SERIES 4 FORM LOFT
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B2. CASE STUDY 1.0
VOLTADOM SERIES 1 RENDER
SERIES 2 RENDER
SERIES 3 RENDER
SERIES 4 RENDER
Series 1 explores the way in which the openings of each cell can vary in radius in response to their distance to a point set on the base populated plane. Each variant looks at a different percentage value where the bigger the percentage of the distance produces a bigger opening.
Series 2 explores the way in which the cells’ horizontal dimensions, and hence overall size, can be varied in relation to the point set in the previous series. The greater this percentage of the minimum distance to the point, the greater number of cells closest to it disappear all together.
Series 3 examines the variation of minimum and maximum values for the cells’ vertical dimensions. This alters what can be described as the percentage of the cell shown in a slice type manner along the circumference.
Series 4 extends the slicing effect achieved in series three and applies the earlier distancing factor from series 1 and 2. The result is a collection of cells whose different portions are shown in response to their distance from a set point.
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B3. CASE STUDY 2.0
REVERSE ENGINEERING Canton Tower – Information Based Architecture The canton tower is an open-lattice structure. The form, volume and structure of the tower are the result of connecting two ellipses, one at ground level and another at a horizontal plane at 450m (Arch daily 2010) . Each ellipse is divided into 1100 nodes with1100 bracing pieces spanning their distance, along which another 1100 rings are distributed. The defining feature of this design however, it’s the way in which these two ellipses are rotated relative to each other, producing a central twist that tightens the form and densifies the material.. By using the relevant offsetting tools of parametric modeling, it has been possible to obtain each unique bracing members size as well as the corresponding ring radii for different positions along the height.
This definition started with from four points which were interpolated into a curve. This curve was then rotated and mirrored. A line through the centre of the geometry was drawn and divided to create a series of bracing rings. The cross sections of both curves are assigned polygons (triangles).
The same definition was then taken and deformed in the centre. This was achieved by relocating the points from which the original curve was interpolated. The ring radii were then obtained from the distance between the original curve and the one running through the centre of the geometry. The cross sections of these curves are circular as they have been piped.
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Series 1 illustrates the affect on form of repositioning the points from which the original curve is interpolated. The circles here do not correspond to the form, particularly for C, which sparked interest for further exploration into this possibility. Series 2 shows the extent of “wrapping� around the overall form by the original curve through the adjustment of the series’ steps parameter. The number of series was linked to the number of circles also to further emphasize the spiral pattern.
This unique example shows the outcome of piping the geometry produced by the gridshell definition. Essentially, it is a series of intersecting tunnels..
Series 3 focuses on the changing domain for the pattern explored in series 2. Series 4 employs simple, un-rendered lines that can were trialled to create a mesh. In keeping with this, the circles were developed into surfaces also.
Using three circles from the reverse engineering exercise, the case study 1.0 gridshell definition was applied to the hour glass like form. The resulting gridshell was one governed by the offsetting of curves.
SITE ANALYSIS
SITE PLAN
(Google maps, 2015)
(services.land.vic.gov.au, 2015)
REASONS FOR SITE SELECTION 1. A collective space Bordered by a series of paths as well as being adjacent to areas of high human activity offer the site the potential to be a collective space. 2. Providing direction Following the natural valley in the topography, one arrives at a clearing at the edge of Merri Creek. This is an opportunity to define a view as well as guide the viewer towards it in space. 3. Engaging with a natural system The topography of the site suggests that it facilitates the drainage of the park. This presents the opportunity to not only shed light on the otherwise overlooked process but also engage with it. 4. Addressing a visual obstruction A sewage vent located at the center of the open side may, through its incorporation into the design project, be better concealed to shift focus to natural features of the site.
Proposed extrusion of topography to be framed by a gridshell design that will support it as a platform in the air. The linear gridshell members will draw on the spirals formations achieved across the case studies in reference to the relationship that the site holds with Merri Creek’s
B4. TECHNIQUE:
DEVELOPMENT
Specifying 3 curves that are interpolated from points down the valley’s contours. Employing gridshell definition to find the shortest possible connections for the three curves. Woven surface result that defines maximum space with minimal use of materials. Creating curvature that will sit inside the valley to emphasize its form. Employing Canton tower rotation definition to define space while maintaining openness and minimal use of materials. Changing the number of steps of rotation to achieve an open versus closed lattice structure. Changing the plane orientation of mirroring to create different geometries and consider how they would sit on the site.
These geometries are the result of further alterations of domain, rotation step and division count parameters. By adjusting these values, woven -like grid shells have been obtained. Their intersecting curve components are representative of the interaction that takes place of water collecting down th site to Merri Creek. The pointed end, to the funnel form gives a sense of direct but as well as termination to the hydrological event that this design sets out to capture.
B5. TECHNIQUE:
PROTOTYPING
Exploring underlying principles of definition by creative a pipe cleaner curve, copying it and rotating it. Mirror image created by reversing bending process of original curve, then also rotated. By regularly intermingling the two complex geometries are obtained. Testing methods of assembly for a series of uniform cardboard curves. Small incisions corresponding to the thickness of each member were made in a base plate.
These explorations of fully rendered gridshell forms show that although the original curve from which they are derived may be irregular and organic in response to the site, its mirroring and replication gives it formality and a sense of organization to something, like a hydrological cycle, that can be misunderstood as chaotic.
This prototyping technique looked at ungrouping the baked gridshell geometry into its individual segments, which are then individually manufactures, potentially through 3D printing, however in this case, this was done by hand. What this test showed is that it is difficult to approximate the digital geometry without sufficient information build into the design. This implies that where the members intersect, incisions will have to be made. The choice of a material such as timber could allow for an interlocking system, similar to the one shown earlier. However, using metal would require a welding technique or adhesive assembly for the model.
B6. TECHNIQUE:
PROPOSAL
The spiraling gridshell technique can be applied at a plane perpendicular to the site to fit the valley topography and mimic the down flow of water through it. The extrusion of the actual topography will be contained inside this gridshell and accessible to the public as a surface to sit on while taking advantage of the directional view towards Merri Creek that the design offers in being an open lattice structure that comes together at the lowest point on site. The selected gridshell form is one that folds back on itself, meaning that each member finishes mid way of the design, thus providing a shelf for the extrusion. In terms of its parameters, the gridshell has a low number of rotation series steps which makes it look graceful with sufficient visual impact to distract from the single vent that it rests on at its highest point.
In this way, the design for the floating platform captures the interaction of a number of complex systems taking place on sight and invited people to interact with it via the direction and views that it provides towards Merri Creek. In terms of its parameters, the gridshell has a low number of rotation series steps which makes it look graceful with sufficient visual impact to distract from the single vent that it rests on at its highest point. In this way, the design for the floating platform captures the interaction of a number of complex systems taking place on sight and invited people to interact with it via the direction and views that it provides towards Merri Creek.
B7.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES INTERROGATING A BRIEF By interrogating the brief it was possible to identify a recurring theme of site specificity and using existing features to benefit the design project as something uniquely relevant to its place. In this case, it was the topography and its role in the drainage of the site towards Merri Creek. There was significant emphasis on the complex interaction of systems that affects the success of a design in the brief, and both the site chose as well as the corresponding design acknowledge that. GENERATING A VARIETY OF DESIGN POSSIBILITIES The variation of design possibilities was greatly facilitated by the use of a site model that contained specific information about the site, like topography. This allowed the accurate mapping of different design elements to different points on the site, particularly if interpolation was being employed, this would produce different outcomes each time. In reference to the specific technique used in this project, the spiraling gridshell was best explored through the alteration of planes, testing different translations that could best respond to the site. DEVELOPING SKILLS IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL MEDIA The most prominent skills that were developed by using three dimensional media were those concerning compatibility between inputs, commands and outputs. By testing and understanding these, it was possible to combine greater definitions. DEVELOPING AN UNDERSTANDING OF ARCHITECTURE AND AIR & UNDERSTANDING COMPUTATIONAL GEOMETRY, DATA STRUCTURES AND TYPES OF PROGRAMMING
The conventional understanding of architecture and air focuses on the idea of suspension. It is correct that, perhaps, this is the clearest way to locate something in space as opposed to on the ground. However, it is believed that there are many other qualities of air that can be attributed to its interpretation. Primarily, the idea of weightlessness is greatly associated with air. The open nature of a gridshell structure translates this into the materiality. Similarly, this is reflected in the positioning of the proposed design; its lowest point sits on the lowest point of the site, while the highest point rests on the existing vent. By consequence, the proposed design does itself sit on the ground but does create a sense of weightlessness surrounding the elevated extrusion of the valley that it supports for the purpose of sitting. MAKING A CASE FOR PROPOSALS As outlined in the response to the previous learning outcomes, convincing proposals are the result of justification. It is important to justify one’s intent and should it stray away from conventional notions of how air or a system should be represented, the alternative needs to be explained. There are times at which the proposed design strays from the brief but, in fact, through its challenge of these points, it comes back to strengthen their underlying principles. ANALYSIS OF CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTS The analysis of contemporary architecture was helpful to the understanding of how parametric modeling can be used for purposes that extend beyond aesthetic creativity. The tensile case studies were particularly insightful into the economic use of materials as they are stretched to their limits. A similar idea can be seen in the gridshell case studies where the shortest
possible connections are used to define maximum amounts of space. The recurring theme here was information testing for economic and functional advantages. BEGINNING TO DEVELOP A PERSONAL REPERTOIRE OF COMPUTATIONAL TECHNIQUES Through the exploration of case studies presented in Part B, the resolution of complex geometries to a manageable algorithm has sparked interest in the simplification of form and its alternative modes of representation such as line work, whether it be via contouring, the grid shell approach or even potentially sectioning.
REFERENCES Arch2o.com,. 2015. http://www.arch2o.com/voltadom-by-skylar-tibbits-skylar-tibbits/. ArchDaily,. 2010. ‘Canton Tower / Information Based Architecture’. http://www.archdaily.com/ 89849/canton-tower-information-based-architecture/. Designplaygrounds,. 2011. ‘Voltadom By Skylar Tibbits - Designplaygrounds’. http:// designplaygrounds.com/deviants/voltadom-by-skylar-tibbits/. L-a-v-a.net,. 2015. ‘Green Void » LAVA’. http://www.l-a-v-a.net/projects/green-void/. Matsysdesign.com,. 2015. ‘SG2012 Gridshell « MATSYS’. http://matsysdesign.com/category/ projects/sg2012-gridshell/. Smartgeometry.org,. 2015. ‘Sg2012 Clusters’. http://smartgeometry.org/index.php? option=com_content&view=ar ticle&id=143&Itemid=149. Smartgeometry.org,. 2015. ‘Gridshell Digital Tectonics’. http://smartgeometry.org/index. php? option=com_content&view=article&id=134:gridshell-digital-tectonics&catid=44. form.