STUDIO AIR Wenxiao Zhu 825825 Semester 1, 2018, Allan Burrows
A
CONCEPTUALISATION
A.0 Introduction A.1 Design Futuring 1.1 PRECEDENT 1 1.2 PRECEDENT 2
A.2 Design Computation 2.1 PRECEDENT 1 2.2 PRECEDENT 2
A.3 Composition/Generation 3.1 PRECEDENT 1 3.2 PRECEDENT 2
A.4 Conclusion A.5 Learning Outcomes A.6 Appendix
A.0 Introduction
I’m Edwin (Wenxiao Zhu), the third year studying in University of Melbourne and Major in Architecture. I am from Shenyang, China and experienced high school education in Melbourne. I had experience of modelling digital objects through the subject ‘Digital Design and Fabrication’. I am quite interested in novel creation that could bring new thinking to people. No matter in terms of technique or conception, there are many profound fields that I should learn with. I had experienced with manipulating Grasshopper before, as a computation software, the novel logic it provides is really interesting and challenging. The capability and complexity could lead to various possibilities. I am passionate with Studio Air for developing my computational skills though algorithm modelling and emphasize the generative idea through parametric fabrication.
Mystrey Armour Digital Design and Fabrication 2017
Pavilion for Secret, interior view Studio Earth 2017
Pavilion with Ramps, rendered view Site Tectonic 2017
“Design future means how the future world can be secured by our design.” -Tony Fry
A.1. Design Futuring We are living in a phase with rapidly explosive population and shortage of energy. With the development of technology, the more meaning and responsibility that Architecture gets. Architects since Modernism age starts to critically think about the possible sustainable way for human to live. The only proposal for raising these awareness, satire and critique is; the future could be secured by our designs. Their vigilant and responsible thinking of the future should be respected. However, we should critically consider their assumptions as well, as architecture is for solving problems. We need to be aware that, with the existed problem be solved, if there will be new problems appear by raising such a design thinking.
PRECEDENT 1 The Walking City (Archigram) | Ron Herron
The idea of Walking City was proposed by Ron Herron, a British archi-
This is the main issue that this kind of architectural design brings to the human society. Also in such a passive condition, what feeling and reaction for human living in these buildings are worth considering. In order to provide a really functional and experiencing architectural design, there should be more aspects included into consideration, which definitely beyond the boundary of architecture, technology and construction, such as the social influence of the design and the issue it may cause to the humanity.
This gorgeous and massive assumption for future architecture and social living style demonstrated the negative concern about the future. The mobile ability challenges the traditional definition about architecture, however with a more sustainable possibility for its motility. Its design proposal is to explore the possibility of sustaining sustainable model and interacting urban area in harmony with natural environment. Computation provides the ability to bring many environmental considerations into design process. People living in one city will have thorough social activities, such as saloons, restaurants and various facilities. Herron developed the concept of architecture from just a building to an interaction term of social culture.
Probably without to be realised by themselves, these architects are not just developing the use of technology, they are changing human’s living pattern, they are hinting the trend of separate, closed communities and they are testing the baseline of the nature of humanity, which should not be advocated. In this view, this kind of fancy design may just be an untutored and armature try if we bring many other aspects into consideration.
tect in 1964. Illustrated in an article form in architecture journal Archigram. This building is designed with the capability of mobile robotic structures with their own intelligence [1]. They are able to freely roam the world and move to another place with sufficient energy when the current location is exhausted with resources. Individual buildings within the whole city are also mobile to move.
Critically from my opinion, the essence of this kind of integrated and self-sufficient architecture is, Escapism. The negative treatment against the deficient of resource and energy in a worldwide term in the future. I fully comprehend their thinking of that human need to gather together into groups to make resource used in an efficient and sustainable way, even keep moving in order to gain sufficient energy. There was a joke saying: “No one really against Escapism. There is only one type of person who takes against Escapism, are jailers.” But it is quite arguable for dividing people into units or communities according to a relatively closure building as helping the future. In a very likely way, people in the same building are possibly become one community and take against others, no matter if there will really be an energy shortage in the future or not. “Enclosed residents could cause a deficit of social support, reduced exposure to divergent view, the lack of ability to consider opposing viewpoints and the gestation of mistrust or general disengagement from the community are all results of reduced physical interaction.” [2] (Suruchi Modi, 2014)
1. Guest Post: Archigram’s “Walking City” Concept, (2011) http://walkingthecityupolis.blogspot.com.au/2011/03/guest-post-archigrams-walking-city.html 2. Suruchi Modi, Improving the Social Sustainability of High-rises, (2014) pp.2.
Architects nowadays are very much willing to claim the danger in the future, their design mainly focused on technology and how to reduce, restore and recycle energy used within that building in the most sufficient way. However, my point of view is, actually there are more things to bring into their analysis. In this residential mode, compared to shortage of energy, conflict of humanity caused by contending resource or space is much more lethal in terms of sustainable development. Thus, reconsider humanity carefully, and never overate the nature of it.
PRECEDENT 2 Condominium Residences Apartment | Zaha Hadid Architects
As Zaha’s final New York City apartment, which has been
constructed, there is a challenge that she took at the very end of her career, which is to design a luxury city-life condo complex over the High Line, Manhattan’s famed elevated park. With 21 “interlaced” floors, the building is comprised of “organic curves and chevron patterns”. For each resident, from its façade to the smallest interior detail, the entire “sculptural” building shares a “seamless vision”, which makes each unit unique [1]. This condo building demonstrates Zaha’s architectural thinking of future residence. Zaha emphasize ‘the spatial experience arrangement and distinctive identity, which offers multiple perspectives and exciting views of neighbour’ [2]. Literally, Zaha is against the concentrated architecture such as the previous precedent we mentioned. She believes even in the future, each architecture will still have its own features and significance, instead of being replaced by giant, concentrated enclosure high rise buildings. The viewpoint from Zaha is pretty clear, which is the importance of social communication and opening social conditions. On the other hand, there are voices criticize Zaha for her isolated architectural works that has lack of harmony with the surrounding buildings. However, Zaha believes, her work is the future trend of architecture, there should be newcomers to follow her style. It may seem incompatible with surroundings, but with increasing buildings in such a style in the future, there will be an integrated harmony.
1. Karissa Rosenfield, Zaha Hadid Releases New Image of New York Condominium Project Near High Line, (2015) https://www.archdaily.com/774648/zaha-hadid-releases-new-image-of-new-york-condominium-project-near-high-line 2. Karissa Rosenfield, Zaha Hadid Unveils New York Apartment Block Alongside High Line, (2013) https://www.archdaily.com/402754/zaha-hadid-unveils-new-york-apartment-block-alongside-high-line
“Only parametricism can adequately organise and articulate contemporary social assemblages at the level of complexity called for today.� - Patrik Schumacher
A. 2 Design Computation Computational design is the intersection of technology and natural beauty. The more we rely on technology, the more potential impact architecture gains that powerful enough to define people’s life style and thinking of the future sustainment and settlement, as it enables various input related to environment and human experiencing, which cannot be fully simulated or comprehensively considered by hand, has been included into consideration in terms of architecture. Design computation is about the potential of technology and creativity applied to architectural design, including problem solving and puzzle making. It is a development and evolution from general demands from the clients to somehow new, unique methods, based on the previous precedent methods but via different testing fields. Digital design enables architects become more creative with more efficient and more complex shape. It is offered from technology, originally. Its compatibility is extremely high with architecture design. Then architects learn to manipulate it based on human logic but within computational principles, to approach the integration with environment and human itself.
PRECEDENT 1 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-2015 | University of Stuttgart
Inspired from the underwater nest construction of the water spider, IDC/
ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-15 demonstrates the architectural potential of an advanced building method through a novel fabrication process an initially flexible pneumatic formwork, which also explores the potential of computational design, simulation and fabrication process. The prototype of pavilion is a combination of architecture, engineering and natural science [1], which declares again the architectural design is no longer an individual work that illustrated by pure human thinking and hand drafting, but consist of accurate environmental simulation, calculation and materiality test.
The form is constructed by ETFE, which is a durable façade material with mechanical properties minimize plastic deformation during the fiber placement [2]. The structure is constructed by reinforced-fiber, which is highly material-effective and functional. Fibre is also chosen for its ductility, plasticity and semi-transparency, which is able to express the natural origin of the design and guarantee enough intake of sunlight. A high-degree of functional integration is achieved by the ETFE building envelope and stress-oriented placement of the fibre composition, as well as minimizing the construction waste along the process. The study of biological construction processes provides the conceptualized structures. In nature, in order to survive under water, Diving Bell Water Spider is able to reinforce a fibrous air bubble from inside as self-protection. ICD/ITKE University of Stuttgart obtained the microscopic image of its nest, which is capable to figure out the specific layout of the fibrous structure. Then generate the form to maximize the best material performance of fibre. Agent-based design tool also negotiates multiple design parameters to determine fibre laying paths. The water spider’s natural activity provides an inspiration that apply robotic placement device inside the shell to complete the construction along the whole assemblage procedure.
1. ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-15 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965 2. Ana Cosma , ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-2015 | University of Stuttgart, (2015) https://www.arch2o.com/icditke-research-pavilion-2014-2015-university-of-stuttgart/
The image below illustrates the fabrication process, which is powered by a robot arm working inside the structure of the pavilion all along the process based on intergrated sensor data, with various fiber reinforcement strategies. Firstly, robotic placement creates an inflated pneumatic membrane. Then the membrane is reinforced with carbon fiber from inside. Finally, the stable composite shell is completed by applying multiple layers with various densities. The overall effect is partial transparent, which is still visible to see the main structure with heaviest fibre placement and lowest transparency. This on-site interface method of adaptive fiber placement process demonstrates the feasible way of assembling median-sized opening building in public area. It also hints that, as the whole design is completed by computation, apparently digital program understands the building form better that human labour. In this way this prototype challenges the traditional way by providing new opportunities for adaptive robotic construction process to complete the fabrication in a 3-dimensional and comprehensive way.
PRECEDENT 2 Absolute Towers | MAD Architects
W
“ e call our cities steel forests.� Said MAD architects. Absolute Tower is created by parametric design to form the twisted fluidity shape with smooth, unbroken balcony wrapping each floor of the building. In order to maximize the view potential from inside to outside, as well as provide a medium for social and ecological interaction throughout the balconies [1]. Its design proposal is to explore the possibility of sustaining sustainable model and interacting urban area in harmony with natural environment. Computation provides the ability to bring many environmental considerations into design process. The computation generates a twisting fluidity with smooth, continuous and dynamic wrapping along the balcony. Continuous balconies wrap around the sinuous columns, graciously marking each floor, and establishing a distinct exterior appearance, which balance the wind turbine and the quality of view. The building consciously shifts and rotate as response to the surrounding environment. This design seeks to provide every private dwelling with uninterrupted views over the city, lake and preserved greenbelt patches [2].
1. ArchiDaily, Absolute Towers / MAD Architects, (2012) https://www.archdaily.com/306566/absolute-towers-mad-architects 2. MAD architects: absolute towers completed https://www.designboom.com/architecture/mad-architects-absolute-towers-nearing-completion/
“Only parametricism can adequately organise and articulate contemporary social assemblages at the level of complexity called for today.� - Patrik Schumacher
A. 3 Composition/Generation At the phase of digital modelling, Generative Design (GD) was introduced in the design process as a disruptive approach that efficiently handles change and data complexity. More opportunities are provided to challenge the traditional architectural form, materiality and construc-tion process. Especially the novel logic thinking along the design procedure is extremely essential for us to adapt with. Composition has been transformed to generation now, with controllable parameters that could provide multiple iterations and simulations. Design process is no longer a linear procedure with limited data and possibilities. What Generative Design offers us is, multithread programming with different possible outcomes, including completely different forms or immaterialities but all of them meets the environmental and human demand. Along this process, we make simulations and test the materiality for fabrication to set our criteria, then filtrate the best iteration that maintains the best architectural performance. Every possi-ble scenario is proceeding in a simultaneous way. We should focus on more than just complex and fancy shapes of model that computation provides, but as well as the flexible and efficient design process that generative design provides us. Computation is a relatively comprehensive concept of algorithm design, gen-eration is the essential part of it, which in charge of the design process precisely and rationally.
PRECEDENT 1 The Water Cube | University of Stuttgart
The National Aquatics Centre, known as ‘The Water Cube’, is one of the most novel and attractive venues for Beijing Olympics in 2008. This year in terms of parametric design, is also the early phase for architects to use such a novel technique as design method. The Water Cube is also likely to be marked as the early practice of generative modeling. Its structure, materiality and composition clearly illustrate that it is extremely distinct from other traditional buildings that constructed through manual modeling, always by reinforced concrete. Furthermore, the distinct difference starts from the intent of design process. “Generative design is not about designing a building, it is about designing the system that designs a building.” said Las Hesselgren, the director of research at the international design studio Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF). For this scenario, there is a combination of computational techniques and architectural design, in a integrated, associated way. The most significant part of this project is, SmartGeometry for generative design has been entered into actual practice, which fostered an unusually enclosed collaboration with industry to produce parametric software for components generation [1]. The design proposal is to simulate the water cube as appears to façade. At first the team used Voronoi algorithm to express the façade idea and the modeling was processed immediately. However, they found difficulty on generate them to a proper structural form. This early failure demonstrates another task that is generally universal today, the algorithm simulation and the real capability of materiality during fabrication. Once there is a failure, a reverse engineering is required to reexamine the feature of chosen material as the new input to limit the shape of the structural form in computational modeling.
1. cadbim2015, BIM AND SCRIPTING : BEIJING NATIONAL AQUATICS CENTER, (2015) https://yeswebim.wordpress.com/2015/04/13/bim-and-scripting-beijing-nationalaquatics-center/ 2. Angus W. Stocking, Generative Design Is Changing the Face of Architecture (2009) http://www.cadalyst.com/cad/building-design/generative-design-is-changing-face-architecture-12948
In algorithm language, the overall space can be subdivided into boxes with central points, which can be controlled with numbers and size parameters. BIM design generation, AutoCAD and Rhino are used to export 3D model files to each other with high efficiency, which provides various intersections of cubes as iterations [2]. After running new iterations and balancing all the considerations such as form, force capacity, design merging, sustainability and construction efficiency, a harmonious form has been generated, which is in Waire-Phelan structure with a combination of two types of cubes: 12 sided cube and 14 sided cube. They are capable to be joined precisely closed to each other to maintain the accuracy of modeling. Generative components are associative and parametric modelling software for architects to automate design processes and accelerate design iterations. It provides new ways of exploring alternative building forms without manually fabricating a detailed design model for each scenario, which increases efficiency in managing conventional design. It demonstrates the power of algorithm generation, which is not only able to improve the traditional design approach, but also associate design with construction process in a closer and synchronous way. The Water Cube is marked for such a novel and successful early-stage generative design.
PRECEDENT 2 30 St Mary Axe | FOSTERS AND PARTNERS
As the first ecological tall building in London, 30 ST Mary Axe is a
typical instance of computational generation, which exemplifies the capability of modern technological advances in parametric modelling. It could be marked as an instantly recognisable addition to the city’s skyline, the headquarters is rooted in a radical approach in terms of architectural, technological, social and spatial.
The shortcomings of this project is still arguable, for its completely enclosure form and the issue of interacting with its surroundings. It is a relatively individual standing work with its own principle. This makes it become the landmark of London. As every architectural aspect serves for algorithm design, the approaches of parameterization limit the possible form of the building, which causes again the controversy of structuralism and functionalism. As well as the economic cost and particularity of materiality.
The initial modelling is generated by a circular plan, with a radical geometry, the conceptual idea developed to a new rapport between nature and the workplace, its energy-conscious enclosure resolving walls and roof into a continuous triangulated skin [1]. Multiple analysis modelling is manipulated to test utilization, displacement, principal stress and force flow. Thus, a narrow band of midrange occurs towards the middle floors of the building before sharply falling off into low values. The analysis also shows the band of oblique stresses around the shell that occasionally alternate in direction [2]. This distinctive form responds to the constraints of the site. The building appears slenderer than a rectangular block of equivalent size. The diagonally braced structure of the tower allows column-free floor space and a fully glazed façade that maximize the intake of sunlight and surrounding views.
However, in the integral level, the capability of generative parametric design is acknowledged. The development of computational simulation tools enables more responsive designs and allows architects to explore new design options for analysing architectural decisions during the design process. They take conventional architectural elements such as shape, material, construction system, lighting, ventilation, acoustics etc in an unexpected way [4]. New subjectivities are generated by transcended signification and meaning. Therefore, the building achieved three main proposals, best minimizing stresses, displacement and forces without wind load and high absolute of utilization through a parametric generation method that offers a balanced performance.
The team also used complex algorithms to maximize daylight penetration with no-column rooms as a result of exterior structural solutions, also meet the satisfied conditions of wind capacity, thermal and structurewhich resulted in a building with minimal wind turbulence, passive cross-ventilation system [3]. Its widened profile reduces wind deflections compared with a rectilinear tower of similar size. They achieved by modelling atria between the radiating fingers of each floor link vertically to form a series of informal break-out spaces that spiral up the building. The grasshopper definition enables changing the dimension of the spanned atria based on the criteria of distributing fresh air drawn in through opening panels in the facade. After the atria for is demonstrated, they are sent to be prefabricated with specific size, each one corresponding to the unique position of the building, which also generated by parametric modelling. This system reduces the building’s reliance on air conditioning and together with other sustainable measures. In terms of energy cost, it is capable to maintain the functional operation with half the energy consumed by a conventionally air-conditioned office tower. 1. Foster& Partners, 30 St Mary Axe, (2004) https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/30-st-mary-axe/
3. 30 St Mary Axe, London https://group.skanska.com/projects/57248/30-St-Mary-Axe%2C-London
2. Foster& Partners, 30 St Mary Axe, (2004) https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/30-st-mary-axe/
4. Farshid Moussavi, 30 St. Mary Axe http://www.harvarddesignmagazine.org/issues/35/30-st-mary-axe
A. 4 Conclusion
It is the digital age now, if parameters can be generated into forms. In the other hand, everything is just data or intangible information. Fear is needless after we realizing this, the world is not getting worse, apparently we should say we just recognize the nature of it. I believe architecture in this phase are returning to the nature, for seeking more harmonious and integrated way to interact with environments. In this term, the definition of architecture is getting more ambiguous, which is no longer just a solid object, but combines more aspects from society, humanit, construction and engineering. Literally, architects are reducing their human weight in the process of design. The reason why we should use computational design is, human thinking has its limitation, subjective, artificial, lack of consideration and accurate simulation that interacted with environments. Thus the real human design is to reduce the subjective thinking along the process of designing in purpose and parametrically provide as much possible inputs as possible to computation, which may look like the design is less human along the procedure, however, the final quality of the architecture is more human in terms of function and people experiencing. I would like to take computational techoniques as a carrier, in order to achieve a balance of humanity and function in terms of architecture.
A. 5 Learning Outcomes
As the start of this subject, these architectural computing theory and practice provides me a general logic of thinking, which is different from the previous work procedure. It is a completely novel but comprehensive way to generate models from a point with limitation to achieve a rational, flexible form. It combines my knowledge of sustainable architecture and the importance of computation, as well as the great potential of algorithm design. The thinking of modelling in the parametric form, which probably includes vectors and coordinates in mathematics, transforms repetitive elements and structure into parameters. Algorithm method enables alterable form transformation to meet different demands and accurate measurement for fabrication. My precious modelling work in Rhinoceros, are likely to be achieved in a much faster way by grasshopper today, with a more harmonious shape and controllable variates, also very effective and accurate. Also some of my previous thinking of design is adventurous and challenging, always in but lack of solution to manipulate and represent them clearly at that time. I hope algorithm could help me achieve my proposal after go through and master grasshopper.
A. 6 Appendix
Bibliography
1. Guest Post: Archigram’s “Walking City” Concept, (2011) http://walkingthecityupolis.blogspot.com.au/2011/03/guest-post-archigrams-walkingcity.html 2. Suruchi Modi, Improving the Social Sustainability of High-rises, (2014) pp.2. 3. Karissa Rosenfield, Zaha Hadid Releases New Image of New York Condominium Project Near High Line, (2015) https://www.archdaily.com/774648/zaha-hadid-releases-new-image-of-new-yorkcondominium-project-near-high-line 4. Karissa Rosenfield, Zaha Hadid Unveils New York Apartment Block Alongside High Line, (2013) https://www.archdaily.com/402754/zaha-hadid-unveils-new-york-apartment-blockalongside-high-line 5. ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-15 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965 6. Ana Cosma , ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2014-2015 | University of Stuttgart, (2015) https://www.arch2o.com/icditke-research-pavilion-2014-2015-university-of-stuttgart/ 7. ArchiDaily, Absolute Towers / MAD Architects, (2012) https://www.archdaily.com/306566/absolute-towers-mad-architects 8.MAD architects: absolute towers completed https://www.designboom.com/architecture/mad-architects-absolute-towers-nearing-completion/ 9. cadbim2015, BIM AND SCRIPTING : BEIJING NATIONAL AQUATICS CENTER, (2015) https://yeswebim.wordpress.com/2015/04/13/bim-and-scripting-beijing-nationalaquatics-center/ 10. Angus W. Stocking, Generative Design Is Changing the Face of Architecture (2009) http://www.cadalyst.com/cad/building-design/generative-design-is-changing-face-architecture-12948 11. Foster& Partners, 30 St Mary Axe, (2004) https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/30-st-mary-axe/ 12. Foster& Partners, 30 St Mary Axe, (2004) https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/30-st-mary-axe/ 13. 30 St Mary Axe, London https://group.skanska.com/projects/57248/30-St-Mary-Axe%2C-London 14. Farshid Moussavi, 30 St. Mary Axe http://www.harvarddesignmagazine.org/issues/35/30-st-mary-axe
B
CRITERIA DESIGN
B.1 Research Field B.2 Case Study 1.0 B.3 Case Study 2.0 B.4 Technique Development B.5 Technique Prototypes B.6 Technique Proposal B.7 Learning Objects and Outcomes B.8 Appendix
B.1 Research Field Strip and Folding I choose Strips and Folding for the research field of Part B Study. The Strips and Folding, as an algorithm architectural technique, formed by undulant strips extending wrapping a certain space, has a great capability of shifting a closure volume to a semi-opening spaces, as well as shifting a single surface to a three-dimensional volume. Its structural features enable the possibilities of the exploration of non-standard and organic curvilinear forms and the creation of the sense of fluidity and dynamic spatial movement. In terms of physical performance, Strips and Folding can be fabricated through computation modelling with high efficient method and provide visual and spatial experiencing that corresponding to my design with minimal material. In terms of computation design, it has a great ability to simplify the design complexity as complex geometry can always be decomposed into multiple simple geometries or abstracted grid forms, with more controllable parameters that allows more variable change in shapes. The grid form also determines my goals of achievement through this technique, which are lighting effect and semi-transparency experiencing. However, one should always be aware of that, the degree of folding highly depends on the organised shape of strips. Once the junctions or joints of strips, after defined and marked, the upcoming folding form is also determined at the same time. Accompany with materiality and fabrication stages, the connection details should be processed cautiously as the lighting and shadows are irreplaceable after the complete of design. Referring to my final design propose, which is designing the prosthetic of Nightshift House, this research field has a great potential of developing such an abstracted structural form that applied to the design. 2 Case Studies with a huge amount of iterations will be analysed, the selected species based on my selecting criteria will drive critically to the proposed design.
B.2 Case Study 1
The Seroussi Pavilion | Biothing
Biothing, a structural computational design lab, mainly focusing on the investigation of the linkage between disciplinary and technological nodes. The Seroussi Pavilion can be considered as a practical precedent that demonstrates the behaviour of Electromagnetic Fields based form, through the definition of field generation. Notable patterned shadows care created, which change throughout the day and also provides sense of movement when passing through the space [1]. Multiple secondary curvilinear lines follow the computation logic of attraction points and repulsion, organically spread in the two-dimensional plan, which can lead to infinite possibilities by changing the input script of the primary curve. The initial computation plan lifted via microarching sections through frequencies of the sine function and the manipulation of self-modifying patterns of vectors. The 3D printing technology is adapted for such an experimental model. As the branches are seamlessly connected, I aim to examine the possibility of its visual density and abstracted geometry form.
1. Admin, Alisa Andrasek’s Algorithmic Seroussi Pavilion, (2010) http://www.evolo.us/architecture/alisa-andraseks-algorithmic-seroussi-pavilion/
Grasshopper Species Definition
Species A: Charge of the folding form
Graph mapper: adjusted to achieve different type of curvilinear shape by using different graph type.
Species B: Density of Strips
Achieving a transformation from loose to dense distribution of strips, such a numerical control could be applied to later design.
Species c: Chnage of initial geometry Exploring now structural shape by replacing the basic geometry.
Species D: orientation of field lines Geometry: change the radius of the existed circle & replace new initial geometry such as triangle, rectangle and other irregular shapes.
Species E: Offset&Loft ---Individual component observation Reduce the number of points to 0, which means only 1 points previewing in algorithm. Offset with lofting mesh to focus on the single trips structure of evert biothing component.
Species with multiple techniques
Species A
Parabola
Bezier
Gaussian
Conic
Perlin
Parabola
N= 12
N= 103
N= 24
N= 38
N= 74
Species B
N= 7
Species c
Species D
SF=3
SF=0.3
SF=13
SF=26
SF=54
SF=73
Species E
Species with multiple techniques
Selection Criteria
Strip Density
Flexibility
The density of strips determines the potential of performing visual privacy and the ability to provide an experiencing enclosed volume. It is highlighted as it is a feature for Strips and Folding that wrapping to create a surface-like geometry with multiple organic weave. The degree of transformation from single strips to 3-dimensional shapes should be assessed.
The ability of allowing other manipulation integrated together to approach to a compositive, which means if the algorithm has its potential for further generation. As well as the possibility to be refined to a more rational form due to the expressive structure of this technique. How accurate the algorithm could be controlled directly determines
Organic movement
Fluidity
As the curvilinear form maintains the structural feature throughout my exploration of iterations. The gentle bending form should be appropriate for a proposed outcome. It also indicates the possibility of associating with other certain structure. Any sharp turning corners are not acceptable.
The degree of the structure spreading out in a continuous way, with integrated form generated from the initial position. It should be criticized if it is integratable spreading over the site, or, have to be divided into multiple pieces to fit in each area and has visual breakage.
the feasibility of analysing the parametric model.
Selected Iterations
Strip Density
Strip Density
Fluidity
Fluidity
Adaptability
Adaptability
Fabrication Feasibility
Fabrication Feasibility
Strip Density
Strip Density
Fluidity
Fluidity
Adaptability
Adaptability
Fabrication Feasibility
Fabrication Feasibility
B.3 Case Study 2 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010
ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010, located in the campus of the University of Stuttgart, as a significant demonstration of the latest development on material-oriented design, simulation and production pro-cess. It can be argued that this pavilion has achieved a very successful outcome for the matching between the design model and the final fabricated object. In order to achieve this great accurate re-sponse between digital modelling and fabrication, engineering test is included into algorithm design process.
Material performance is brought into consideration during modelling simulation as a restriction; the bending level is limited due to the materiality of plywood. Firstly, in fabrication stage, the capability of plywood can be tested by bending one strip sheet from straight to curvilinear shape, if the increasing bending force applied achieves beyond the elasticity of plywood, will leads to a breakage. After designers capture the exact data of the capability range, the data can be imported as the input into parametric modelling program, which becomes a boundary of all the possible iterations. The certain specific force that caused breakage will be set as the critical point of the bending force, which is the numerical upper limit. In terms of structure, the range of the radian of each sheet is determined, any iterations with the setting material should be varied and performed within the certain bending form. Furthermore, the numerical range for the bending degree can also be represented by colour as a slider bar, which become more visualized for designers to perceive the condition. Every part of the structure is in different colours to show the specific force distribution.
1. ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458
Reverse-engineering In the next stage, referring to my explorations of following reverse engineering process, one integrated approaches will be demonstrated. I rejected one very early algorithm method with a very quick-response modelling logic as it is lack of possibilities of further parametric manipulation and the aspects are not divided into spatial specific components with controllable numerical input. Thus, the shown engineering method is my real proposed achievement of this project. More complicated modelling process with specific division of every manipulable component in order to push the parametric model to its limit of disintegrated possibilities and generate the model in a more variable way.
Reverse-engineering 1. generated Firld line Grasshopper Species Definition
Field lines generated around a base circular geometry form, one attraction point set below other points in z axis in order to direct lines points sideling up.
2. Inflecting lines to curves Basic lines are pumped up by using Graph mapper, parabola bending form is achieved.
3.
Undulating Curves Dispatched points on each curve into two sets of points. Amplitude command is used to push points inward and outward towards the centre of the circular geometry.
4. Shift/offset to be lofted 5. loft to strips Undulant curves are offset and twisted from the centre point. So far two sets of curves of each Set is created, which enables to be lofted into strips.
Lofted to create undulant surfaces.
set a
set b
1. generated Firld line
set a
set b
set a+b
2. Inflecting lines to curves
3. Undulating Curves
4. Shift/offset to be lofted
5. loft to strips
Rendered View
Linear Illustration
point charge
As there is an attraction point set below others, the overall field lines are pointing up in order to be blowing to curves that pointing After the Dome-like structure is achieved, lines are didown in a curvilineal form by generating vided into set of points and its output links to the input Graph mapper. of Graph mapper, which is Parabola type. The final output could be amplified and points can be moved to form new curves.
field lines
Attraction points Multiple attraction points are set to generate a base geometry which refers to the best structural performance as the realistic pavilion.
graph mapper Base Geometry Curves are divided into two sets of points by dispatch, Amplitude used to undulant the curve and transform into weave-like curvilinear shape.
Amplitude
Dispatch
move Interpolate curves offsite to be lofted.
My section view of the reverse engineering model.
weave
move
Loft
The image from the official website of ICD/ITAKE Research Pavilion 2010, clearly showing its engineering arrangement for maintaining such an organic shape. There are reinforcements on the ground, each connecting to one end of each strip, with such a compression, strips are bended in curvilinear form. However, for the later undulant form, there are no additional joints provided, plywood strips are interlocking each other to maintain such a stable structure. This treatment of the structural performance inspires me to divide my further iterations with such an undulant interlocking form.
B.4 Technique Development Grasshopper Species Definition
Species A: Curve Form Control Graph mapper: adjusted to achieve different type of curvilinear shape by using different graph type.
Species B: Spread Degree
Field line: explore the degree of span of strips, initialized from column-like from, then starts to spread out and down.
Species C: Initial Geometry Type Geometry: change the radius of the existed circle & replace new initial geometry such as triangle, rectangle and other irregular shapes.
Species A
Parabola
Conic
Parabola
Perlin
Bezier
Perlin
Conic
P= 2
P= 1
P= 0.85
P= 0.77
P= 0.66
P= 0.61
P= 0.51
P= 0.367
Gaussian
Species B
Species C
Grasshopper Species Definition Additional commands applied to push the technical performance to its limit. As well as explore more specific details of its structural component.
Species D: Single Strip Size & shape Jitter: manipulate the shape of every single strip, the wavy form with tiny width of each strip darws a impartnant refernce of the strip form for my prototype.
Species E: Spatial Layout Attraction Points: associated with spin force, addressed to perform a circular spatial structure around them.
Species F: Folding Degree Spin Force: attached to generate the degree of bending of field lines. Organic forms will be conducted and the exploration will be pushed to new stage.
Species with multiple techniques Various strategies manipulated at same time to push the form to its limit.
Species D
Species E
N= 3
N= 7
N= 15
N= 19
N= 38
N= 43
N= 76
N=53
Species F
SF= 64
SF= 57
SF= 77
SF= 34
SF= 25
SF=13
SF= 49
SF=7
Species with multiple techniques
Refining Criteria
Complexity
Fluidity
The spatial arrangement of the prosthetic, if it is multi-layered to express the semi-transparency feature of Strips, if it is wrapping around to provide the sense of privacy and comfort. As a visual contraction, the structural form will directly lead to the ambience of the prosthetic.
The design of a prosthetic should not be aside from the apartment and just stand alone. The fluidity means the possible degree of the prosthetic associating with the construction structure of the apartment, if it is integratable spreading over the site, or, have to be divided into multiple pieces to fit in each area and has visual breakage. However, from my own perspective, incoherency and breakage is not acceptable.
Adaptability
Fabrication Feasibility
The spatial potential of the secondary development for later iteration, including its fusion ability to the other research field, if possible. As the 4 selected iterations are just a very original form of the final design. Its possibility of later development should also be analysed as the iteration outcome should be variable associating with the proposed design function.
The feasibility of transforming the computational structural complexity into realistic fabrication process, which brings consideration of the chosen materiality. As we are facing the fabrication and assemblage task at this stage. Material test will be examined to certificate the capability of each proposed material.
Potential Iterations
Complexity
Complexity
Fluidity
Fluidity
Adaptability
Adaptability
Fabrication Feasibility
Fabrication Feasibility
Complexity
Complexity
Fluidity
Fluidity
Adaptability
Adaptability
Fabrication Feasibility
Fabrication Feasibility
B.5 Technique Prototypes Performance Test 0.8mm Box Board:
Boxboard has its feature of light weight and advantages for fabrication. However, its plasticity limits any further wrapping possibility. It came to a breakage after applying a slightly increasing degree of twisting.
0.6mm Polypropylene:
Polypropylene, as a material with high elasticity and capability of dispersing forces through a curvilinear from spreading. It is variable to be folded to any degrees, with lack of tension, however, hard to be crack either. It is appropriate to be developed into a prototypes that express the structural visual performance. The real constrains still appears to the twisting test, the twisting centre shows high stiffness while folding via such a direction.
Laser Cutted 0.6mm Polypropylene with side etching:
As a strategy of improvement, Polypropylene with etching along its sides, enables more organic folding form. The etchings are actually splitting the strength and prevent the strip from cracking.
Assemblaged Prototypes
Defining Connection Type:
The possibility of self-structural support is explored, referring the inspiration drawn from ICD/ITAKE Research Pavilion 2010. This prototype demonstrates the possible joints that could be applied to the proposed design. Junctions come from strips themselves, strips interlocking each other. The advantage is no additional joints are required, the overall structural fluency and organic form is guaranteed.
Defining Floding Performance:
This prototype suggests the fluidity of the prosthetic structure. Such an undulant weave-like form demonstrate my proposed strip components arrangement to perform an integrated structure with high fluidity that can be qualified to associate with any layout of the apartment construction.
Apartment Analysis
B.6 Technique Proposal Design Function ---- What new use/expeirnce of the apartment can you achieve?
Change of sunlight exposure effect
Potential of applying lighting device
It is not only about reducing solar access into the space. Folding strips wrapping around windows, its spatial arrangement of the inside volume will lead to the change the path of the intake of sunlight, in order to provide visual experiencing shading effect for relaxing and sleep.
Strips structure enables inserting lighting device into the strip. Therefore, the prosthetic could become a shading and experiencing functional structure at daytime, and visual privacy structure with lighting functions for the interior room at night time. Such a shifted function has a high response to the theme of the Nightshift House.
Spatial comfort The multi-layer strip structure of the prosthetic, enables semi-transparency effect, thus, providing a sense of privacy. I also propose to manage an air flow effect that comfort clients while working at night. The ability of providing air flow is also brought into consideration, is the distribution of strips is capable to deliver the wind to a proposed area, which is the living room.
Visual expression of materiality The chosen material as the secondary skin of the interior area of the apartment, its structural arrangement should not clash with the circulation space what enables clients do their daily activities. Also, the choose of material should refers to the bending structure and its materiality, if its capability can overtake such a wrapping form and if its material texture can provide a visual experiencing effect.
Form Finfing ---- Why does it look like the way it does? ---- How is it achieved? This is a linear approach illustration from the generated iterations of Case Study 2, to the final algorithm model outcome. Along such a long way, the parametric modelling should meet many restrictions and demands from the design proposal and the excited construction layout of the apartment. TThe appropriate integration of criteria of algorithm explorations and design intension that developed from apartment analysis achieves the final prosthetic form. Case Study 2.0
Iterations
Response to the apartment
Refining Criteria
Selected Iteration
Overlapping plan to show the field lines encircle from the attraction points, which determine the external structure span. The area of bedroom and balcony is kept clean from the strips.
Design Function
Apartment Analysis
Dimension A. Wrapping panels to reduce solar access& providing visual pattern experiencing.
Main areas for daily activity & work.
Dimension B. Decline down from ceiling via vertical direction to cover the top area which allows lighting function.
Final Prosthetic Form Integrate the selected iteration’s strip folding style and the rationalized form of the algorithm that generated from site propose.
More degree of depth for the part wrapping the window should be achived in order to reduce solar access
Integrated to meet all the demands and intensions, the form appears to functionally behave. The “S� From 1. Wrapping around windows and wall to perform an enclosed space against outside. 2. Hanging from ceiling for visual experiencing and lighting function.
Isometric View As my previous grasshopper definition suggested, the whole algorithm is generated together, but the manipulation allows different forms of the two sets of prosthetic to be achieved, which leads to their potential to meet different demands from different areas.
Set A, designed with the propose of reducing solar access and providing experiencing shadow effects. Prosthetic at this area should be wrapped along windows and extended through the wall. This is a completely different dimension compare to Set B.
Set B, generated from ceiling down to envelop the living area that occupies most of the client’s daily activities. Appropriable for applying lighting device that allow night illumination.
Section View
Plan View
Perspective View 1
Perspective View 2
Interior View 1
Interior View 2
Interior View 3
B.7 Learning Objects and Outcomes Throughout the manipulation of algorithm languages, many aspects are brought to consideration. 1. The ability to understand algorithm language and logic to generate a variety of design from a given precedent. 2. The understanding of the modelling approach to an existed project. 3. The principles of setting criteria which should be constantly refined along the process of exploring iterations and design functions. 4. Ability to make a design brief with specific functions that summarized from the criteria. 5. Criteria which should be constantly refined along the process of exploring iterations and design function. 6. The appropriate management of multi-linear criteria integrated towards final design. 7. The ability to criticize the generated species and observe the potential of them. 8. Understanding the reason of testing materiality and reverse-engineered method, as the input and output from parametric design the engineering fabrication always shift with each other. 9. The parametric method to analyse a digital model and make every part of it corresponding to the manipulation of fabrication.
Reflection Throughout the presentation ,a few constraints and suggestions are pointed out.
The unpredictable form
The density is controllable, however, still not in a numerical stage yet. This manipulation draws high importance as one main function should be providing an appropriate sleeping area at day time.
The use of material
It should become a 3 dimensional object in the next stage rather than pure strips in order to be inserted with lighting device in the kitchen and living area, which guarantee a comfort working space during night time. Thus, more stable material should be applied for realistic fabrication.
The realization to fabricate joints from algorithm model
A systematic analysis of all manipulation should be achieved at next stage in order to generate every single part from the algorithm into the specific-corresponding data to be accurately fabricated. The ability of generating and testing each part of the model should draw high importance of the upcoming stage.
These are the main issues I am looking at and manage to solve them in the next Part C design. As Part C is material orientated, the detailed manipulation of generating connections from algorithm model into real fabrication must be analyzed.
B.8 Appendix Algorithm sketchbook
Bibliography 1. Admin, Alisa Andrasek’s Algorithmic Seroussi Pavilion, (2010) http://www.evolo.us/architecture/alisa-andraseks-algorithmic-seroussi-pavilion/
2. ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458
C
Detailed Design
C.1 Design Concept C.2 Tectonic Elements & Prototypes C.3 Final Detail Model C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes
C.1.1 REFLECTION ON FEEDBACK
From the interim presentation feedback, the exploration of the research field and achievement of previous Strip-Folding technique is positively admitted by tutors. However, potential issues are brought as the previous technique has pushed itself to the limit, with multiple unpredictable parameters. The challenging is the existed algorithm is extremely hard to manipulate in a controllable domain. The rational analysis become the most major part of Part C as the whole task from now on is material-orientated. One should be aware that, the advanced technical should not be used to resulting in one end, but constantly guide the design process by the feedback of information. Fabrication should focus on high-cost, digital and generative design approaches. To response to Merri Creek landscape, as well as adapt the fabrication aspect, the concentration of technique is changed from Strip and Folding to Biomimicry, which leads to the possible prosthetic that meets the growing conditional of natural plants. Refer to the aesthetic, the design component should perform its function and associated with the construction of apartment in a smooth way.
C.1.2 SITE ANALYSIS MERRI CREEK
Vegetation density & Sun path
Activity & Circulation
Chosen Site
High density of vegetation with variations of plants that provides potential to interact with beans in Terrarium House. Sun path diagram demonstrates the geographical movement, which indicates the appropriate orientation of our proposed growing plants.
Communal facilities such as drinking spot, BBQ, shelter and seating area that brings activities. Selected spot should be located at intersections of circulations to perform its functions. Scale of faclities presents in spanning circles. Yellow line shows Sealed Track along Merri Creek.
A place with richness of plants and appropriate amount of circulations is the proposed site of our house. As the design should interact with nature.
Terrareum House
Client
Biomimicry Association At the stage of assembling, digital model can also be a strong reference for fabricators to recognize each component, which is an extremely efficient way of assemblage. The concept of the prosthetic design is to transform the interior urban life to a natural open experiencing by implanting natural plants into the apartment, therefore associates people’s daily life.
“The Beaneater” (1580-90) by Annibale Carracci.
Jack’s Sketches.
Precedent Climbing Bean of the Kentucky Wonder Variety Phaseolus Vulgaris. Key spacing for growing: -Minimum stalk diameter of 5mm, maximum of 15mm. -Typical spacing of 50mm between wrapped spiral segments - Typical plant fruiting buds spaced at 200mm intervals along length of stalk -Vine variety is able to grow up to 2-3 m with fruit set at regular interval - Vine segments tend to split at 200mm centres
Requirements of growing: Requires bit prevention of wind exposure Trellis structure should perform its function for climbing variety to wrap around Anchors onto supports through spiral action and microscopic hair hooks
C1.3 Conceptual Design Proposal
10
CONCEPTUALISATION
Form Exploration Matrix
Technical Diagram Illustration
C.1.4 Form Matrix Density of the framework is tested to find a best way that reflects to the Bean growing pattern.
Parametric Exploration Matrix Algorithm model in cube form with Biomimicry features, demonstrates the extruded structure rather than pure panels. Their complexity of structure inspires the further manipulation with a relatively more rational algorithm but also in an expressive form.
Final Design Evolution Increase of density as well as the degree of wrapping the certain space with a particular pacing of each stick.
Initiated from lines which is capable to integrate with the existed space.
The form has been generated to adapted Algorithm to meet the bean parameters.
Final Design Such a generative prosthetic can be brought further to meet the requirement of other plants as it shows the great optional of flexibility and ability of adapting. It is capable to associate well with another plant type just by generating its spacing value to offer the particular growing condition.
Isometric View
Varability of adapting variuous apartment types . As an adapted algorithm that initiates from specific curvilinear lines, the bean stock prosthetic shows its great capability to various layout of construction. It is an analysed system that is able to meet functions at any apartment.
The further challenge is how we can manipulate and produce the joints from the abstract arm from.
Interior View 1
Interior View 2
Section
Axonometric View Bean vines are attached on the structure of the prosthetic, in order to illustrate its function and bring the reality.
Plan
STUDIO AIR: PART C STUDIO 11, ALLAN
C.2.1 Fabrication Trial 1 THE KEY TECHNICAL ELEMENTS OF OUR MODEL IS THE JOINT AND THE TYPE OF STICK, THE CONNECTION METHOD IS THE MAIN CONCERTATION OF OUR PRACTICE.
Each sheets have edge etching spacing 50mm equally, as a early practice of associating with natural growth span. Interlocking two plywood sheets through their junctions in the middle.
Joint is used as the natural way to bring extrusions via different directions towards to the centre.
28
CONCEPTUALISATION
Instert interlocking section into the shpere joint. Joint is used as the natural way to bring extrusions via different directions towards to the centre.
Assembly Process
Sphere joint with joints in 90 degrees spreading the surface. After interlocking timber strips into a cross section stick, ready to insert into the joint.
Laser Cut Fiile
The timber stick begun to crack, which means the joint is not capable to afford any structural responsibility.
C.2.2 Fabrication Trial 2 Developed the joint with direction-oriented extrusions rather that junctions appear on regular angles. The test is to examine if plywood can be constantly reinforced by the specific-designed joints.
Plywood sheets are laser cut in more organic and irregular way, with multiple interlocking junctions that provides a biomimicry sense of natural tress. This prototype provides us the sense of scale. At the later stage, joints are designed in a smaller scale due to efficiency.
Inserting the sticks into the 3d Printed Joints which have indentical shape of junctions with the section of sticks, but slightly larger in dimension for easy assembling.
Interlock each strip before assembling them to the joint.
36
CONCEPTUALISATION
38
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 39
C.2.3 Presented Model in Final Class
Layer 7
Layer 6
Layer 5
Layer 4
Layer 3
Layer 2
Layer 1
The panel on the right is partial from the final prosthetic structure, by recording and marking the shape and amount of joints on each level, the form, scale and specific dimension can be analysed to produce accurate fabrication.
C.2.4 Model Iteration 1: Exhibited Quality After Presentation As a reflection from the presentation, a development is considered to apply to the existed model, which is hanged on wall during presentation. However, it has structural function that did demonstrate from the last class. Secondary fabrication is under way to extend the size of the model, which enables it stand by itself or wrapping walls.
After assembling, it is able to stand instead of being half by other supports. Now this is the performance of the real prosthetic design.
Fabrication Process
Displayed for exhibition and photography
C.2.5 Model Iteration 2
As the response to the suggestion, one refined model is produced, with 50mm increments as anther iteration. This model achieves the most complexity in both tracing and fabricating.
Grid form with certain length which enables customized sticks that meet the condition.
Digital simulation of final prototype model. Timber sticks associated with plastic joints displaying a wrapping form in Joints with certain extrusion. No tracking needed. By recording and marking joints by dividing them into vertical layers, every components is able to be analyzed. Balsa timber stick & 3D printed joint. Both with circular section in 3mm diameters.
Grid form with certain length which enables customized sticks that meet the condition.
Fabrication Process
C.3 Final Detail Model: Iteration 2
52
CONCEPTUALISATION
Iteration 2 indicates itself as the most successful model after approaching through refining. Its dense-structure and circular form suggest the complexity of the sticks. Furthermore, it is a convincible instance that algorithm modelling is able to produce dynamic and accurate model in an efficient way.
CONCEPTUALISATION 53
54
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 55
56
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 57
Detail Model Joints
58
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 59
60
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 61
62
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 63
64
CONCEPTUALISATION
CONCEPTUALISATION 65
Key Process
The process of producing mass elements. Though manually, every spatial position is determined for every joint due to their particular direction of extrusions.
At the stage of assembling, digital model can also be a strong reference for fabricators to recognize each component, which is an extremely efficient way of assemblage.
C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes Objective 1: Interrogating a brief We are clearly engaged with every aspect of the brief. The conceptual design had quickly been decided and we continued to develop our design from various approach such as algorithm exploration and physical prototype practice. Both of digital and physical are valuable that help us to review every step and provide the potential of possibility that awe can bring our design further.
Objective 2: Iteration of algorithm We have 2 technical approach all along the way until the final design. This can be critically considered as a reflective way to review both of our works, to see if there is ant constrains or potential issues if it will be brought further. Moreover, we started to learn from each other’s techniques and applied to the final design. The process of discussion was not pleased, however, it is worth viewing perspective from others. I am still glad that the organic structure of my design influenced our final group work, that the prosthetic is no longer a simple panel anymore. It has extruded towards various directions and become very expressive.
Objective 3: Relationship between digital and physical Through the practice of fabricating prototypes, it drives clear that it is important to provide a linear design process with fabrication, which can always provide feedback as the new input information for us to think the new possibility and techniques to resolve problems.
Objective 4: Association of proposal and technique The ideal concept and proposition of our design can always be exciting but challenging, however, we have to find another way if our certain technique is too restricted to support our thinking. We simplify it, or we achieve the same effect through another approach. The procedure of delivering works is always changing as we keep encountering new issues. Now I am aware that if I want to be constantly creative, I need to prepare to adapt the uncertain outcomes.