SILAN ESEN YEAR 3
TECHNICAL DISSERTATION
THE EXPLORATION OF TENSILE RETRACTABLE ROOF SYSTEM
Unit 8
Design Tutors
: Jenny Wan and Eric Wong
Technical Tutor
: Bennie Allan
This technical dissertation will focus on recycled fabric roofing and how the fabric will open and close through the technology of retractable roof system. The proposal carefully explores foldable fabric through testing of physical models, hand drawing as well as digital work to present how this is adaptive to the rest of the building and interaction with recycled steel structure. The foldable fabric roof is explored with wheel rails. Given the technical aspect this dissertation also focuses on different stitching as well as pattern cutting methods to meet the proposal of how it stretches and reacts to the movement.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION
The study of this technical investigation has been inspired by fast fashion, so therefore the building will act upon bringing awareness to this issue by recycling already existing fabric as well as wasted fruits into new fabric to produce slow fashioned garment. The recycled fabric will be displayed as well as shipped across the River Thames. Due to the background of the project, the building will consist of fabric roof which will be recycled polypropylene.
The building will function as a new celebrated fashion house where people come and celebrate and understand fabric, for this the building is designed at a larger scale to accommodate visitors and for the building to bring awareness to negative impact on fashion to our world, the adaptive fabric roofing will open and close.
KEY TECHNICAL QUESTIONS 1 - How can the polypropylene fabric roofing adjust to opening and closing of retractable roof system? 2 - How will the fabric react to different adjustment through stichitching methods and patter cuttern? 3 - How will the fabric will accommodate to different conditions such as tension and wind?
INTRODUCTION
N
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200M
Site: River Thames Scale: 1:2500
A
B
C
D
SUN PATH A. B. C. D.
WIND PATH
SITE CONTEXT
Summer Sunset Summer Sunrise Winter Sunset Winter Sunrise
The site is located at Battersea on River Thames between Grosvenor Railway Bridge and Chelsea Bridge. The thought process of the site was explored through having the building serve as a port. The functional aspect of the building demonstrates the identity to poetics of responsible consumption and engaging with recycling in a non-conventional way. Due to this the structure is placed between two bridges for Grosvenor Railway Bridge to import wasted fruits and fabric and Chelsea Bridge to allow an entrance into the building. This is to allow a system that does not require more carbon footprint.
The critical thinking behind site was also placed around different tidal height as this was the key aspect on why the building was designed and how the composition of the structure was matched with the Grosvenor Railway Bridge as well as to Chelsea Bridge. The following page will give data on information on these two bridges.
The information displays the height, width and longest spam of both bridges as well as valid information on different tide levels in the month of February. Due to February being transition month into Spring the tide levels stay approximately the same in the month of March. This is a key factor to consider on why the structure of my building is designed at a taller scale.
TOTAL LENGTH
285.5 m
WIDTH
54 m
LONGEST SPAN
53.3 m
East Facing Elevation Scale: 1:1000 @A2
GROSVENOUR RAILWAY BRIDGE 22 Feb
23 Feb
24 Feb
25 Feb
20.02.2022
26 Feb
6.37m 0.20m
05:24 am 6.22m
6:03 am 6.1m
06:50 am 6.9m
7:51 am 5.6m
9:19 am 5.38m
05.48 pm 6.9m
6:30 pm 5.64m
07:21 pm 5.34m
8.32 pm 5.07m
10:14 pm 5.04m
High Tides 12:12 am 0.88m
12.41 am 0.93m
1:15 am 0.96m
2:01 am 1.05m
3:06 am 1.2m
12.25 pm 0.46m
12:52 pm 0.51m
1:30 pm 0.62m
2:23 pm 0.88m
3:47 pm 1:14m
Hi/Lo
Time
Height
HIGH
03:45
6.28m
LOW
11.01
0.20m
HIGH
16.02
6.37m
LOW
23.11
0.75m
Low Tides
TOTAL LENGTH
213 m
WIDTH
20 m
LONGEST SPAN
101 m
East Facing Elevation Scale: 1:1000 @A2
CHELSEA BRIDGE 6.37m 0.20m
22 Feb
23 Feb
24 Feb
25 Feb
26 Feb
20.02.2022
05:25 am 6.1m
6:04 am 6.1m
06:51 am 6.9m
7:52 am 5.6m
9:20 am 5.38m
05.49 pm 6.9m
6:31 pm 5.64m
07:22 pm 5.34m
8.33 pm 5.07m
10:15 pm 5.04m
High Tides 12:13 am 0.88m
12.42 am 0.93m
1:16 am 0.96m
2:02 am 1.05m
3:07 am 1.2m
12.26 pm 0.46m
12:53 pm 0.51m
1:31 pm 0.62m
2:24 pm 0.88m
3:48 pm 1:14m
Low Tides
HIGH AND LOW TIDE
Hi/Lo
Time
Height
HIGH
03:46
6.28m
LOW
11.02
0.20m
HIGH
16.03
6.37m
LOW
23.12
0.75m
DESIGN PROPOSAL
FIGURE 01
01
02
03
The design proposal of my building is based around three main aspects, these all surround the technology of foldable membrane roof. The three main key areas are as follows, cable structural system with trolley carriages to pull and push the fabric. Two, retractable fabric roof sewn specifically to figure one and two with an in-depth study of characteristic of different fabrics as well as sewing techniques. Lastly, three following from the first aspect a precise morphology of wheel structural system with a central hub. This will all collectively produce the result of a successful foldable membrane roof.
N
Initial Roof Plan Closed Scale: 1:500 @A2
FIGURE 02
Project Proposal 1 - Cable Structural System 2 - Retractable Fabric Roof 3 - Morphology of Structural Wheel System with a Central Hub
N
Initial Roof Plan Open Scale: 1:500 @A2
DESIGN PROPOSAL OVERVIEW
FIGURE 03
01
There are many strategic actions involving the technology of the building, for this reason there is a specific in-depth study of achieving the structure and the characteristic of the fabric. The scheme requires to have a project team of architects, engineers as well and fabricators.
FIGURE 04
The role for each profession as follows:
Architect - The architects will have the responsibly in designing for atmosphere, where the scheme will run from and how it will need to 02
continue as the construction starts.
Engineer – There will be a group of engineers who will undertake careful steps of planning and calculating the structure.
Fabricator – The fabricators have an important job of making sure that the fabric application is correctly attached to the structural cable
FIGURE 05
system and the rest of the structure.
03
1 - Assembly Steel Structure 2 - Assembly Prestressed Cables 3 - Assembly Fabric Covertible Roofing
PROJECT TEAM OVERVIEW
DECARBONISATION STRATEGIES
FIGURE 01
FIGURE 05
The main Decarbonisation Strategy the building will provide is the use of fabric. From in depth study which will be presented in the following pages of this dissertation is that the best material strategy for the fabric roof is to choose polypropylene. Polypropylene is much less harmful to the environment than other polymers. It’s biodegrad-
01
05
able and emits less pollutants than PVC-based polymers. However, the notion of embodied carbon was utilized in the selection of the strategy of using recycled polypropylene.
Polypropylene is a recyclable material; this reduces the embodied
FIGURE 02
FIGURE 06
carbon toxins as the fabric will be recycled into the form from wasted fabrics and plastics. This in proximity is an application procedure in which when the fabricated roof for example decays, it will then be recycled into new product. This scheme will minimise embodied carbon 02
and will start a recycling programme.
06
The images presented are a scheme of a recycling programme in which the polypropylene get recycled into new forms. This is an eightstep programme followed as scrap polypropylene arriving to the factory in order to for it to be cleaned processed and produced into
FIGURE 07 FIGURE 03
recycled material. This is the procedure the fabric of the building will have gone under as this is a strong strategic step in lowering carbon emission. 03
07
This technology has developed a molecular-level purification process that generates clear, odourless, nontoxic pellets that may be utilised to create 100 percent recycled products and fabrics. The system uses around a tenth of the energy required to produce virgin polypropylene. As well as the scheme of the fabric, the threading and rope which
FIGURE 04 FIGURE 08
will be used for the structure will also be recycled. Perma Core is the choice for sustainable fundamental thread, offering a sustainable spin on to an industry yarn brand symbol. Perma Core® ECO100 has a made from 100 % recycled polyester filament wrap and a continous thread, recyclable core that can be used in a variety of textile and non-apparel applications.
01 - Scrap polypropylene 02 - Polypropylene before and after cleaning process 03 - Vacuum sucking up scrap polypropylene 04 - Machine functions in cleaning scrap polypropylene 05 - Feedstock evaluation unit processing polypropylene 06 - Polypropylene resin at the PureCycle plant 07 - Finished polypropylene 08 - Last check ups
04
08
Nearby produced recycled steel is processed in an electric furnace for the structure’s construction. With the addition of scrap, this oxygen exchanger converts iron to steel. The Electric arc furnaces process uses minimal carbon since most of the steel can be sourced from repurposed scrap. With over 40% of EU steel manufactured using the Electric arc furnaces technology, it also is a cost-effective option to buy. The main steel construction will be built off-site and transported to the Battersea area. The EAF closest to you is in Cardiff, Wales. Due to the obvious locality, without any need to export parts from other countries; only one method of delivery required would be for trucks to transport the prefabricated steel framework to location.
Through use of active light sources, such as skylight openings and floor-to-ceiling height apexes, to maximise the amount of sunshine the structure may absorb, designed for increased light intake while still offering views.
For cooling and ventilation, the building’s double-skinned fabric roof uses a natural adequate ventilation. The double layer design enables airflow can move easily between the two layers, guiding convection currents up or out of the structure.
DECARBONISATION STRATEGY
ECOLOGICAL REGENERATION STRATEGIES
01
For Ecological Regeneration Strategies the building specifically focuses on the programme of the project which is the recycling process of fruits and fabric and later for these new fabric to be dyed naturally with fruits through steaming. For this process to run eco positive, the focus will be filtering the river water which the building is located. This strategic programme will be beneficial in many ways as raw water will cause an appliance to slow down and use more energy due to build-up. Reducing emissions not only helps save money on the electric and gas costs, but it also benefits the environment by lowering pollution resulting from energy production. The programme of cleaning the fruits and fabric will follow as The equipment is equipped with a bubble generating device, which makes the fruit roll over and removes the residue on the surface of the fruit. At the same time, a suitable amount of medicament can be added to disinfect and fix the colour. The float can overflow from the overflow trough and the sediment can be discharged from the sewage outlet to achieve the purpose of cleaning.
02
Strategies 1 - Filtering River Water
03
1 - Wasted Fruits 2 - Washing Wasted Fruits 3 -Washing Fabric
FIGURE 01 The coarse and fine screens allow water to pass through.
01
The design proposal of my building is based around three main aspects, these all surround the technology of foldable membrane roof. The three main key areas are as follows, cable structural system with trolley carriages to pull and push the fabric. Two, retractable fabric roof sewn specifically to figure one and two with an in-depth study of characteristic of different fabrics as well as sewing techniques. Lastly, three following from the first aspect a precise morphology of wheel structural system with a central hub. This will all collectively produce the result of a successful foldable membrane roof. Devris develops on the screen’s interior till the differing pressure regulator reaches seven psid.
FIGURE 01
Customers conserve cost on water, energy, repairs, and replacement parts through using self-cleaning filtration systems. They’re regarded as continuous self-cleaning strainers because, unlike some other devices, these do not have to be serviced on a constant schedule. An continuous self-cleaning filter, for instance, would not require constant filtration replacements or unit closures like such a bag or pad filtration.
01
A solid tube filter forces grains from such a source of water, collecting dirt inside too, in a self-cleaning filter. Pressure difference between both the input or outflow is generated through this level of development. When it recognizes significant pressure differential, a regulator monitoring the filtration or operates a flushing gate. This generates a quick flow through the mechanical cleaning, which strong absorption and evacuates accumulation from the display.
The wash valve is opened, allowing the vacuum nozzles to remove the debris from the panel whilst maintaining a low pressure passage.
FIGURE 01 flush
01
DESIGN PROPOSAL OVERVIEW
CASE STUDY 1
Architect
: Kugel+Rein Architects and Engineers
Engineers
: Kugel+Rein Architects and Engineers
Location
: Kufstein, Austria
Built in
: 2006
FIGURE 10
A
01 - Pressure Ring 02 - Vertical Wires 03 - Diagonal Cables 04 - Folded Fabric 0.5 - Foundation
01
02
03
04 A
05
Section Scale: 1:200 @A2
Kugel + Rein Architects and Engineers developed a foldable round pavilion over a 2000 square metre. For safeguard the region from unexpected seasonal changes, its transparent white skin, which delicately spreads like a petal, that can be opened and closed within four minutes. This enhances overall utilization of both the open spaces therefore decrease the probability of pricey festival disruptions. Whilst the dome originally intended to provide protection against the elements, it also provided two further advantages. Whenever the roofing is extended, the space’s general acoustics increase, and fluid multi-coloured light displayed onto the roof creates a visually striking appearance.
The fabric structure of Kufstein Fortress is a tensile construction is round, with a polygonal tension ring encircling it on the outer border, similar to a gigantic 52 m in diameter steel wheels thought up of fifteen identical parts. The “cable wheel” is indeed an extremely effective, well before design that, in addition to collecting overall energy from ambient weather, solely applies vertical pressures to its own foundations.
A - Winch B - Trolley (Sliding Carriages) C - Trolley (Sliding Carriages) D - Trolley (Driving Carriages)
Detail Darwing of Trolley Mechanism
FIGURE 03
A
B
C
D
01
FIGURE 04
02
FIGURE 05
03
Detail Section Scale: 1:50 @A2
The membrane is held line by line just on bottom hub connections through movable carriages. Every membrane section’s exterior carriage is attached to an unending cable which goes through diverting spools all throughout circular cables. The fabric gets propelled via 15 simultaneously operating motors just at membranes outside border, that is regulated mechanically from a main component. Near - field communication detectors monitor its membrane’s activity, and overall movement and pressure on its membrane. The membranes are pressured with 15 master cylinders, which are manipulated using mechanical cable winch and force its outermost moving carriages towards place. Each component of all its membrane’s requisite stress is adjusted separately. Because mechanical tractor operates via friction, very high impact force is necessary to introduce a sufficient degree or tension among the tractor as well as running cord. Another extra issue occurs as a result from overall mass for tractors plus engines, as well as their availability for electric energy. While folding/unfolding the fabric, another semi winch named a carriage travel across cable. Because the trolley is an inactive machine, it should either alternatively dragged or forced with mechanical tractor.
01 - Steel Connection 02 - Steel Column for Strength
Spanned Trolleys
Closed Trolleys
01 02
B A D C
Plan View Not to Scale
The personal drawing above presents the system of trolleys in a circular motion. Showing the trolleys closed and the angle between each one of them. This drawing also makes understand
A - Prestrestressed Cable B - Sliding Carriages
the how the fabric would fold as it ends at a certain point. To test this I have made an experimental model in which it shows the hinges acting as trolleys to display the idea of how it would look suspended and closed and how the hinges look when they are all together. As well as the experimental model the detailed drawing presents four important components of Prestressed Cable, Sliding Carriages, the end point for trolleys and well as the inner Motor.
C - End Point D - Motor
CASE STUDY 2
Architect
: gmp Architect
Engineers
: Schlaich Bergermann & Partner
Location
: Warsaw, Poland
Built in
: 2011
FIGURE 15
FIGURE 16
A moveable membrane sail pulls along just above height to form the internal roof. The square tv is already in the middle of the pitch, with four screens providing ideal sightlines from all seats. Twelve arch-shaped single-flight staircases lead to the top tier. The outer facade is made of anodised stretched aluminium, which serves as a transparent membrane for the inside heating shell and access steps. The arena will stand out in the park as a landmark viewable from afar, with its outer façade painted in Poland’s national colours.
The focus for the second case study was the connections. One driving carriage and eleven sliding carriages are placed for each radial cable. Instead of a steel sliding carriage with sliding pads, a Polyamide sliding carriage is used to lower the weight of the components. For the understanding of the connections even further a test of webbing belt was conducted. This experiment later developed the project
TECHNICAL INVESTIGATION
FIGURE 17
POLYPROPYLENE Originally developed in 1951 by Phillips Petroleum, the creation of Polypro-
VARIETIES
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Inexpensive
•
Enables high temperature applications
•
A very high flexural quality
•
Likely to UV light
•
Resistance to moisture
•
Difficult to paint
•
Impactful strength
•
Low bonding properties
•
A very high resistance to electricity
•
Highly flammable
•
Good insulator for electricity
•
Easily repairable
•
Decent to good fatigue resistance
WOVEN
pylene was an result of an accident whilst in the works of making gasoline from propylene. Simply, Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer polypro-
2.
WATERPROOF
pylene textile material. Polypropylene has different properties but the main quality is the factor of it being a light fiber.
BREATHABILITY
HIGHLY BREATHABLE
HEAT RETENTION
MEDIUM LEVEL
STRETCH ABILITY
VERY HIGH
MOISTURE
VERY HIGH
WATER RESISTANT
WATERPROOF
POLYETHYLENE Polyethylene very similar to Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber which holds
3.
NON - WOVEN
1
2
3
VARIETIES
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Impactful strength
•
Producing takes energy
•
Water Resistant
•
Takes long to break down
•
Electric insulator
•
Method of disposal - incineration
•
HDPE - can be recycled
•
Low weather resistance
•
Corrosion resistant
•
Cracks through Stress
•
Easy to clean
•
Eco-friendly
•
Economical
WOVEN
bases of petroleum. The thermoplastic materiality of the fabric is made of various crystalline structures, this is mostly achieved through petrole-
2.
TRANSLUCENT
um plastics. The properties of the fabric has olefin fiber which is known to made from polyolefin. Polyethylene is very famous in fashion.
3.
4.
BREATHABILITY
BREATHABLE
HEAT RETENTION
ABSORBENT
STRETCH ABILITY
NOT STRETCHABLE
MOISTURE
HOLDS IN MOISTURE
WATER RESISTANT
YES
VINYL Discovered by Eugen Baumann in 1872 who was a German chemist and
NON - WOVEN
REINFORCED
1
2
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Durable
•
Hard to repair
•
Water Resistant
•
Very prone to crack
•
Resistance to moisture
•
Versatile
•
Very easy to clean
•
Flame retardant
•
Moisture absorbent
•
Abrasion
MARINE-GRADE VINYL
2.
NON-EXPANDED VINYL GRADE
covers, military clothing as well as tents. Vinyl is known to be good for industrial uses, this is due to the low power use.
BREATHABILITY
NO
HEAT RETENTION
MEDIUM LEVEL
STRETCH ABILITY
NO
MOISTURE
YES
WATER RESISTANT
WATERPROOF
4
VARIETIES
was developed by Waldo Semon in 1920s by using additives. Vinyl fabric is mostly created of synthetic bases and is usually used for fire protective,
3
1
2
NYLON Nylon belongs to a family of synthetic poly material. Unlike the pre-
VARIETIES
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Lightweight
•
Static
•
Easy to clean
•
Low resistance to sun
•
Fast Drying
•
Sensitive to heat
•
Resilient
•
Medium strength
•
Insulating properties
•
Pre-coloring available
•
Absorbency
WATERPROOF
vious fabrics mentioned, Nylon are completely synthetic. This means that Nylon have no organic material as a base. The popularity of the
2.
RIPSTOP
fabric after 1945 synthetic fibres were produced 25 percent in the fashion industry. This was also the case for textile market share.
BREATHABILITY
LOW BREATHABLE
HEAT RETENTION
MEDIUM LEVEL
STRETCH ABILITY
VERY HIGH
MOISTURE
MEDIUM
WATER RESISTANT
MEDIUM LEVEL WATERPROOF
POLYESTER Similar to Nylon, Polyester is also a synthetic fabric. The bases of Pol-
1
2
VARIETIES
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Cheap
•
Environmental concerns
•
Durable
•
Flammable
•
Elasticity
•
Not comfortable
•
Moisture-wicking
•
Heat resistant
•
UV resistant
•
Easy to take care of
COTTON
yester are usually from petroleum. Polyester is one of the world’s most popular fabric in the textile industry. The fabric is primarily is polymer. Some are derived from ethylene. Some are biodegradable polyesters however this is not the case for all of them.
BREATHABILITY
VERY BREATHABLE
HEAT RETENTION
MEDIUM
STRETCH ABILITY
MEDIUM
MOISTURE
HIGH
WATER RESISTANT
NO
ACRYLIC Acrylic have bases of synthetic polymer known as acrylonitrile. This is
1
VARIETIES
PROS
CONS
1.
•
Lightweight
•
Med weak
•
Washable
•
Low absorbency
•
Resilient
•
Retains shape
•
Wool-like
•
Cotton-like
•
Resists shrinkage
•
Dyes
WOOL
produced through reaching various coal based chemicals and this is done with certain monomers. This results in acrylic fabric a fossil fu-
2.
COTTON
el-based component. It is usually chosen for heat-retention processes. This can be seen with Acrylic designed for athletic equipment.
BREATHABILITY
LOW
HEAT RETENTION
HIGH
STRETCH ABILITY
HIGH
MOISTURE
HIGH
WATER RESISTANT
MEDIUM TO HIGH WATERPROOF
1
2
START
32 SC
10 SC
57SC
21 SC
END
For the following test, a sample of Polypropylene was used. This is due to after secondary research on different fabrics and their qualities, I have decided to choose Polypropylene as the roof’s fabric. In this first experiment and testing, I have tested the quality of stretchability. I alongside another person has pulled the fabric from top and bottom to test the durability of how it would react to any condition of the fabric being stretched unwanted. This sample completed successfully as the only remaining physical appearance left on the fabric was that it looked wrinkled which is not a problem for my design.
PROPERTIES 1 - DURABLE TO STRETCHING
TESTING STRETCHABILITY
START
37 SC
14 SC
56 SC
22 SC
END
For the next testing, I wanted to see the fabrics quality to water. So, in a rainy weather condition how the fabric would react and if the rain will leave any stain or dampness on the surface. As presented like on the images that are taken from a video that I have recorded, the fabric is highly resistant to water as once the water is splashed it slides straight down. For the last image I have waited to see if the water would sink into the fabric however after waiting for two minutes the water did only sit on the fabric rather than absorbing the dampness.
PROPERTIES 1 - Water Resistant
TESTING WATER RESISTANCE
START
09 SC
5 SC
14 SC
6 SC
18 SC
As for the last testing for the sample fabric, I have decided to test how it would react to fire. It unfortunately lit on fire very fast however the fire stopped by itself on the 18th second. This quality made the failed test hopeful as it showed that the fire would quickly stop and not expand to the rest of the fabric. Another point is the property of this sample fabric. It is a very thin fabric which would be very easy to catch on fire however for the actual roof a coated Polypropylene PTFE-fabric with high tensile stress will be used. Also the fabric will be including hydrated magnesium oxide or aluminum oxide making it very hard to catch on fire.
PROPERTIES 1 - Flammable
TESTING FIRE RESISTANCE
Moving on from the sample fabric testing, I have carried out experimentation on different stitching techniques in order to capture the right appearance for the roof. For this experiment I have used the running stitching method. Running stitching method is done by the needle running back and forth. Once this is done the recycled thread will be pulled out in order to leave a loose look which will be visible on the building. Another reason why this stitching method was chosen was because once the thread is pulled the fabric is packable and this makes it very useful for changing of the fabric. This way the fabric will be able to change at any moment as there would not be a problem of unpacking the fabric.
OPENED
ROOF
RUNNING STITCH
PULLED
To grab the fullness of the drawing of the roof, I have experimented the Shell Smocking technique. This technique results in a fabric manipulation which makes the fabric look 3D. The outcome is exactly how the roof will look. The shell smocking technique was done by drawing grids which was nine inches by nine inch and just like the diagram shows it was stitched by point one and point two and later by dragging from one point to the next in a double for the second point. The only problem which was raised by this technique is that it was not possible to be round just like my drawing. For this the stitching method on the next page was experimented. The fabric for the actual building will be sewn with a sewing machine.
B
F
G
E
A C
ROW 1 D
ROW 2
FRONT
ROW 3
POINT ONE AND POINT TWO TO BE STITCHED
LATER BY DRAGGING FROM ONE POINT TO THE NEXT IN A DOUBLE STITCH FOR THE SECOND POINT
BACK
The Godet technique is used eight times around the fabricated roof for the opening to happen easier as mentioned the shell smocking technique was not possible to stitch in a circle and for stretching to happen so this is where godet is useful. Godet is a wide design with diagonal material inlays to add motion into a fabric The garment has a fitting top portion and godet sections placed at regular spacing along the hem to add movement. The diagram presents how the roof plan will be stitched in different pattern cutting. As well as where it will be stitched.
A D
C
B
OPENED
A - Shell Smocking B - Center C - Running Stich D - Godet Technique
CLOSED
09
10
11
12
transpiration
13 01 EXTERIOR
02 03 04 05
01 - Abrasion Resistant Outer Shell 02 - Protection 03 - Gore Tex Membrane
INTERIOR
transpiration
04 - Protection 0.5 - Soft Inner Liner
06 - Fabric
06 07
07 - Appov Barrier
08
14
15
08 - Breathable Membrane
Whilst still figuring out how the fabric would open and close, I have investigated the detailing of the fabric and how many layers I would need. For this I have looked at the technology of a jacket. Most outdoor jackets are waterproof however they are also known to allow body heat out. This in comparison 16
to the design of the roof is very useful as the same technology will be applied for the building’s roof. The sketches above present early ideas of how the details can be, these were inspired by layers of a waterproof jacket.
PROPERTIES
17
1 - Understanding different layers of the roof by looking into the technology of waterproof jacket. 09 - Joint 10 - Catenary Cable 11 - Exterior Layer 12 - Interior Layer 13 - Steel Clamp Plate 14 - Steel Clamp 15 - Pole Column 16 - Innersection Columns 17 - Anchor Based Foundation
INITIAL IDEAS
B
C
A
A - Cable B - Fabric C - Internal Cable
Each wire truss is attached to the fabric membrane. The membranes must be dragged forward in its folded state so as an adequate pretensioned pressure can be applied. However, since the bottom position of the fabric layer needs operate stationary in sufficient to provide prestressing pressure, a stationary central flying mast supported by extra peripheral wires is required. During the elevation of the cable truss, every lowest part of its membrane layer should be linked to the lifting pole. As a result, the wire that controls the lower end of the membrane strip’s operating carriage is necessary on the bottom of such fabric membrane. The directing cable, though, isn’t represented in the design since it is not a fundamental component.
MODELLING 1 - Investigating through model
OPENED
The images on this page presents the fabric when it is folded. The images also compare before and after side by side in order for the understanding of how the fabric will look when it is folded and when it is not. For this model I have used leftover wooden pieces I had as I did not want to purchase new materials. For this reason the model has been made out of wood however the structure itself is a recycled steel.
PROPERTIES 1 - Testing Foldable qualities
FOLDED
24.04
23.04
Week
Month
Year
Max Gust
28.5mph
28.5 mph
28.5mph
49.0 mph
63.9 mph
Max Windspeed
10.3 mph
16.9 mph
16.9 mph
29.0 mph
44.1 mph
Calmest Day
2.3 mph
1.0 mph
0.1 mph
Windiest Day
7.6 mph
12.4 mph
15.0 mph
WIND PRESSURE
The study of the periodic regional weather results in the formation of tactics which will be used during the study. Structure orientation or massing have an impact on circulation efficiency. The development’s adaptability is determined by predominant airflow in a specific orientation or moderate changeable winds, for which climate data is essential. The design techniques were established based on the results of the wind data collected. The building’s orientation and height have been altered to maximise environmental circulation, and the building is situated where it receives the greatest wind during the year, facing the prevailing south wind for maximum air flow.
To understand this research more, wind tests were carried out on the model showing how the fabric would react with low, medium and high wind. These tests were successful as it displays the result of the fabrics durability to wind.
LOW WIND
MEDIUM WIND
HIGH WIND
LOW WIND
MEDIUM WIND
HIGH WIND
9.0 8.0 7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0
The images present the condition of the fabric to prevailing wind when the fabric is folded. What I have analysed from this study is that when the fabric is folded it moves more than when the fabric is suspended. This is due to the fabric being looser whilst its closed and have more strength when its opened
2.0
as the tension cables pull the fabric.
1.0 0.0 May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
THIS YEARS WIND PERFORMANCE
LOW WIND
MEDIUM WIND
HIGH WIND
LOW WIND
MEDIUM WIND
HIGH WIND
A C
B D
A E
01
A - Cable B - Curveture 01 C - Spring D - Roller as Saddle E - Compression Ring
To further develop the experiments, I have created this experimental model in order to understand how the previously stitched Shell Smocking technique would adjust to opening and closing. The experiment has been completely successful as the way the roof plan drawing is displayed is exactly how the model is presented. Using a physical sample representing one twelfth of the ceiling, gradual expanding of the fabric layer is studied. Its geometrical arrangement was modified as well as the fabric layer is tensioned. To corroborate the theoretical views and gain a better understanding of the processes of folding the fabric membrane, a structural model of one twelfth of the ceiling were made. Another one the most basic concepts was to compress the membrane layer that match the shape of both the radial beams. Because the margin is curled inside the centre and covered, and length of the ceiling in the core is twice of the length of the membrane strip if one linear membrane band is stretched all along two adjoining line segments as shown in the photographs.
PROPERTIES OPENED
1 - Understanding foldability of shell smocking.
CLOSED
Finally, I believe that the design of the roof’s foldability was tackled in a
Overall, the technology report has given the opportunity for the actual
rational manner, with a rigorous iteration process that included important
building to bind with the programme of recycling in order to make new
structural concepts as well as various stitching methods. Diagrams and
fabric. The report gives an overall feel and understanding how it might
drawings led to a physical model and tests to assess the structural integ-
actually be inside the building with membrane roof.
rity of the cloth as well as how it would fold. Throughout my investigation I have not only studied other case studies in detail but tried to find solutions by applying it to my personal project. As well as that, I have included the approach of failed test and how it affected the development of my project and in opposite successful tests, how they further developed. For each test and experiment I have created a diagram in order grasp the knowledge more and I strongly believe my approach to developing the technical investigation has been successful as I have figured out at the end, how the structure would adapt and how the fabric would react to certain elements.
The report develops into step-by-step procedure of how the foldable membrane roof would be and through successful test, a third party will be able to visualise how the fabric will look, fold and react to prevailing wind. This makes it rather easier to visualise than final drawings and these experiments carried out were physical
CONCLUSION Considering from Start to End
FIGURES
REFERENCES
Unless stated otherwise all figures are personal drawing and models.
ECCON. 2022. Kufstein Fortress: Retractable roof for event venues | ECCON GmbH. [online] Available at: <http://eccon.biz/case-study/festung-
FIGURE 1-8
sarena-kufstein/> [Accessed 25 April 2022].
Bloombberg, 2019. here’s Finally a Way to Recycle the Plastic in Shampoo and Yogurt Packaging. [image] En.ar-ingenieure.com. 2022. Kufstein Fortress Arena. [online] Available Available at:
at: <https://en.ar-ingenieure.com/projects/festungsarena-kufstein> [Ac-
<https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2019-09-25/polypropyl-
cessed 18 April 2022].
ene-plastic-can-finally-be-recycled> [Accessed 18 April 2022]. GBizley, G., 2010. Architecture in Detail II.
FIGURE 9-13 n.d. Retractable Roof Fortress Kufstein. [image]
Masubuchi, M., 2013. Conceptual and Structural Design of Adaptive Membrane Structures with Spoked Wheel Principle – Folding to the Pe-
Available at:
rimeter. University of Berlin.
<https://www.kugel-architekten.com/download/KUGEL+REIN_Kufstein_ en.pdf> [ Accessed 17 April 2022].
Nw3weather.co.uk. 2022. NW3 Weather - Wind Detail. [online] Available at: <http://nw3weather.co.uk/wx13.php> [Accessed 16 April 2022].
FIGURE 14 Mussuler, A., 2019. National Stadium Warsaw. [image]
Sefar.com. 2022. [online] Available at: <https://www.sefar.com/data/ docs/zh/6921/AS-PDF-Architecture-Exterior-Kufstein-EN.pdf?v=1.0> [Ac-
Available at: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stadion_Narodowy#/media/ File:National_Stadium_Warsaw_aerial_view_2.jpg> [Accessed 12 April 2022].
FIGURE 15-16 2022. CONCEPTUAL AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN OF ADAPTIVE MEMBRANE STRUCTURES WITH SPOKED WHEEL PRINCIPLE – FOLDING TO THE PERIMETER. [image]
Available at: <https://d-nb.info/1032990031/34> [Accessed 12 April 2022].
FIGURE 17 – 22
2022. [image]
Available at: <https://sewport.com/fabrics-directory/polypropylene-fabric> [ Accessed 17 April 2022].
BIBLIOGRAPHY
cessed 15 April 2022].
APPENDICES AND DRAWINGS
RMS Attached at the end of the document
Various construction methods are expected to be used in the making of
However, it is safe to analyse that the cost of the building will approxi-
the building, the focus would be recycling Polypropylene in and stitching
mately at a high end due to the structures size and maintenance work for
it into the actual appearance. The building would also be positioned in a
the fabric roof however in the long term it would be an advantage as the
sequential manner in conformance with the outlines of the site, for which
programme focuses on recycling and reproducing meaning the concept
comprehensive research had also been conducted to ensure that neither
of the structure allows the building to minimise on cost in long-term
any unneeded area is occupied, thereby lowering the region occupied by the building and, as a result, decrease the cost associated with a larger exterior area.
The building’s construction technology mixes recycled steel and a bracing system to support the structure and prevent displacement. The membrane roof must also be managed on an annual basis to prevent decay and deterioration, while health and safety rules must be followed due to the building’s height.
Because the construction and quarries for a building like a foldable membrane will cost around £1000 per sqm, I estimated an approximate for this as the technique of foldability and maintenance of the fabric will be a key factor to consider. However, this would change seasonally as strong winds as shown through experimentation that could leave the membrane wrinkly and this would mean elongating maintenance.
APPENDIX 1 Cost, Key Factors Audit
FIRE SAFETY B
PROTECTION FROM FALLING, COLLISION AND IMPACT AP-
Section 10, protection of openings and fire-stopping
PROVED DOCUMENT K Building complies with Requirement K2: Protection from falling.
The membrane roof is dispatched automatically. Protecting the inside and exterior of the structure against the development of flames and heat
To consider the buildings height, safety was considered in caution. To
by restricting it to a restricted region for a prolonged period, enabling in-
prevent from any accidents the structure does not have opening windows
dividuals inside of the structure adequate period to evacuate via alternate
on higher levels and rather ventilation system and the structure will ac-
pathways that would otherwise be shut off by fire.
commodate barriers all around.
DRAINAGE AND WASTE DISPOSAL APPROVED DOCUMENT H Section 1 and 3, Building complies with H3: Rainwater Drainage requirements
As of this, suitable drainage is provided for water runoff to be conveyed off the structure ‘s roof. It is accomplished using a roof gutter that is attached to a pipeline arrangement which distributes the accumulated rainwater towards the river close to the site, as advised again for acceptable rainwater outflow. This way of moving wastewater to a riverbed is mentioned as a preferable alternative over delivering water to a sewer and is provided as a priority choice.
APPENDIX 1 Building Regulations, Key Factors Audit
HEIGHT
As the height of the building is on the taller scale, extra precaution has been taken for visitors and people occupying the space are safe and there are no accidents. As mentioned on the previous page there are visible barriers all around the building for any situation. There is no external internal mixing on the higher levels. Every space which opens to exterior is either for entrance purposes or have been placed very low for any incidents of one falling.
There are banners around the building in order to remind the public of safety rules, this also applies for private companies such as scaffolders in any need to change the roof. As mentioned, the buildings height is on the taller scale and for this the scaffolds should only start working only with the right equipment and guard rails.
APPENDIX 1 Health & Safety, key Factors Audit
0
10
20
50
100
Site: River Thames Scale: 1:500
C
A
B
A - High Tide B - Low Tide C - Tech Focus Roof
PRE TECH CROSS-SECTION
0
10
20
50
100
Site: River Thames Scale: 1:500
A - Roof B - Cables C - Chelsea Bridge D - Fabric Pullers E - Grosvenour Railway Bridge F - Tensioner G - Entrance
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
CLOSED ROOF PLAN
0
10
20
50
100
Site: River Thames Scale: 1:500
A - Roof B - Cables C - Chelsea Bridge D - Fabric Pullers E - Grosvenour Railway Bridge F - Tensioner G - Entrance
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
OPEN ROOF PLAN
Axonnometric Scale: 1:50 @A0
11
06
12
13
11
04 05
10 01
07 02 03
09
08
01 - Tensioner 02 - Turnbuckle 03 - Water Dreainage via Membrane Plates 04 - Prestressed Cables 05 - Sliding Carriages 06 - Driving Unit 07 - Base Column 08 - Stell Mounting Foundation 09 -Bolt Fixtures 10 - Vertical Recycled I beam 11 -Central Hub 12 -Spoke Cables 13 -Vertical Wires 14 -Stainless Steel Hinge Connector
FINAL AXONOMETRIC
FINAL UNFOLDED ROOF AXONOMETRIC
01 - Steel Intersected Column 02 - Joints 03 - Central Hub 04 - Floor Level 05 - Steel Grate Flooring 06 - Vertical Recycled I beam 07 -Membrane 08 - Sliding Carriages 09 -Joints 10 - Tensioners
10
11 -Driving Unit
01
02
03
08 10 04 07
05
09
11
06
Section Scale: 1:25 @A0
TECHNICAL SECTION
A
B
C
D E
F
G
A - Wool Insulation B - Kalzip C - Fixed Point Clip D - Insulation E - Structural Deck Detail Scale: 1:5 @A2
F - Alternative - Fixed Point clip G - Rafter
DETAIL 01 - Semi Wall Detail
D
B
A
C
F
E
A - Timber Frame Internal B - Steel Column C - Wood Screws D - Nails E - 20mm Diameter anchor Detail Scale: 1:5 @A2
DETAIL 02 - Floor Detail with Jointed Steel Column
F - Concrete Curb
RMS