STUDIO AIR : FINAL JOURNAL

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ABPL30048 Architecture Studio: AIR Semester 2 2015 Yuliana Kusuma Widjaja 657711

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Brief:

LIVING ARCHITECTURE

propose an architectural intervention that will express, support, amplify, or question continuous relationships between technical, cultural, and natural systems

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< Final Prototype Model

Introduction 4 Part A Conceptualisation 7 A.1 Design Futuring 8 A.2 Design Computation 18 A.3 Composition / Generation 28 A.4 Conclusion 38 A.5 Learning Outcomes 39 A.6 Appendix: Algorithmic Sketches 40

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part B Criteria Design 51

B.1 Research Field 52 B.2 Case Study 1.0 58 B.3 Case Study 2.0 64 B.4 Technique: Development 68 B.5 Technique: Prototype 76 B.6 Technique: Proposal 78 B.7 Learning Objectives and Outcomes 86 B.8 Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches 88 Part C Detailed Design 95

C.1 Design Concept 96 C.2 Tectonic Elements and Prototypes 108 C.3 Final Detail Model 114 C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes 127

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Yuliana Widjaja widjajay@student.unimelb.edu.au

Hi Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Yuliana, a third year architecture student at the University of Melbourne. I was born and grew up in Indonesia and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve spent these last 3 years in Melbourne to pursue my passion.

My interest in architecture arose from my keen enthusiasm in crafts and Physics. It developed as my Dad, who works as property developer - once brought me to his work and I enjoyed the multidisciplinary working environments of construction industry. From that point, I realised that Architecture would be the perfect field for me as it combines all my interests into one.

Apart from being a student, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m an adrenaline junkie and I have ticked skydiving, bungee jumping, and riding extreme roller coasters off my bucket list, yay! This may appear irrelevant to architecture, but it has changed the way I see things. I learned to dare to take any risk, for you will never know untill you try, and in the end you will only regret the chances you did not take.

Well, learning Software tools such as Rhino and Grasshopper is definitely out of my comfort zone. I just started to learn software when I was in first year university. From that time my skills developed progressively as I used them in my previous studios. I learned a lot from Studio Earth and Water, and I am looking forward to taking a more advanced computerized design approach in Studio Air since I believe that creativity starts when you are not afraid of exploring new things.

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Architecture Design Studio: Earth Semester 1 2015 Brief: a place for keeping secrets Software used: Sketch Up, Photoshop

GREAT THINGS NEVER CAME FROM COMFORT ZONE 5

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[A]

CONCEPTUALISATION 7

Figure A1.1 The City of Dubai http://www.netflights.com/media/189038/dubai_01_681x298.jpg (accessed 10 August 2015)

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[A.1] DESIGN FUTURING

Figure A1.2 Interior of Ski Dubai http://www.orbittourism.ae/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ski3.jpg

Design is shifting towards sustainability since people are aware that we have reached a stage where the amount of resources required to sustain the human population exceeds what is available.1 The above pictures show a Ski Dubai in The United Arab Emirates. This is an example of unsustainable practice since they have wasted huge amount of energy to maintain the ice from melting in the middle of desert temperature. Instead of creating buildings that are “alien” to the surrounding environments, architects should integrate social and the environment when designing The word architect originates from Greek arkhitekton meaning ‘director of works’. Therefore architects play a big role in directing the future as they are - as the Greek definition of architect (arkhitekton) suggests - the ‘chief of buildings’.

The invention of computational approach might be a tool to help architects design buildings that incorporate with surrounding environments and social needs. The following precedents show how architects integrate the surrounding natural environment in their design.

1 Tony Fry, 2008, Design Futuring: Sustainaibility, Ethics, and New Practice (Oxford: Berg): 1.

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[1] Endesa Pavilion

Barcelona, 2011 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio

Figure A1.3 The southwest facade of Endesa Pavilion http://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac 1 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Smart living Architecture: Solar Prototypeâ&#x20AC;?, Constructions: an Experimental Approach11 to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015), 129.

Figure A1.4 Endesa Pavilion Southwest elevation http://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac

CONTRIBUTION TO THE IDEA

EXPANDING FUTURE POSSIBILITIES

In Design Futuring, users and the environment should be integrated in the design because designers design for them.

The logic of the algorihm is generated from the sun path diagram of the specific site. This means that the same algorithm can be applied to any countries by adapting the parameter of Sun Path data in the specific site.

Endesa Pavilion is a perferct precedent of sustainable design. The form of Endesa Pavilion follows the data of the solar path of their specific sites in Barcelona. As a result, the PV panels attached can generate doubled the energy required in the building. This is indeed what design future is looking for, as the resources generated outweigh the human needs.1 12

The form clearly indicates how the logic works. As Barcelona is located in the northern hemisphere, thus the south side is more likely to get direct sunlight.

For this reason, the southwest side of the pavilion has the most PV panels, to maximise the energy generated.

Figure A1.5 Endesa Pavilion section Figure A1.6 Endesa Pavilion components http://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac

“Parametrically designed, it reacts to the data of its specific solar site, and via its flexible solar cells generates twice as much energy as it consumes.”

1 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio, “Smart living Architecture: Solar Prototype”, Constructions: an Experimental Approach to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015), 129.

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[2] CH2 Building Melbourne, 2004 DesignInc Architects

Figure A1.7 The west facade of CH2 Building http://www.archdaily.com/395131/ch2-melbourne-city-councilhouse-2-designinc 15

Figure A1.8 CH2 Building west elevation Figure A1.9 CH2 Building north elevation Figure A1.10 CH2 Building detail of north elevation Figure A1.11CH2 Building south elevation http://www.archdaily.com/395131/ch2-melbourne-city-council-house-2-designinc

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CH2 Building is a green building that achieve 6 Star Green Star Building. The design of this building is generated from the objective to maximise the wellbeing of its occupants (Indoor Environment Quality). This approach is a characteristic of Design Future, as sustainability looks after the people as well as the environment.

From the images on the left, it is evident that the facade is treated differently. The decision of each treatment is based on the surrounding environments to maximise passive design thus minimising the energy consumed by the building.

Melbourne is located in the southern hemisphere, thus the northern facade gets most direct sun light. For this reason, the window is getting smaller as it goes to the top of the building, so that occupants at the top do not get too much sunlight.

Furthermore, the amount of afternoon sunlight that gets into the building can be adjusted using operable timber panels in the western facade.

1 City of Melbourne. About CH2 Building, accessed 10 August 2015, from https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/CH2/ aboutch2/Pages/AboutCH2.aspx

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Figure A2.1 TheThe curvilinear programmed wall by Gramazio & Kohler http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

[A.2] DESIGN COMPUTATION

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Design is shifting towards sustainability since people are aware that we have reached a stage where the amount of resources required to sustain the human population exceeds what is available.1 The above pictures show a Ski Dubai in The United Arab Emirates. This is an example of unsustainable practice since they have wasted huge amount of energy to maintain the ice from melting in the middle of desert temperature. Instead of creating buildings that are “alien” to the surrounding environments, architects should integrate social and the environment when designing The word architect originates from Greek arkhitekton meaning ‘director of works’.

Therefore architects play a big role in directing the future as they are - as the Greek definition of architect (arkhitekton) suggests - the ‘director of works’.

The invention of computational approach might be a tool to help architects design buildings that incorporate with surrounding environments and social needs.

Computerization vs Computational It seems that the terms computerization and computation are often used interchangeably as the same thing, while in fact they have completely different meaning. Computerization is when one uses computer only for drafting tool, but the design method itself is still analog. On the other hand, computational technique makes use of computer capability to assist designers in solving complex issues, such as material optimization, digital materiality, digital fabrication, and efficient construction process1.

The following precedents show how architects integrate computational technique in their design process, allowing sophisticated solution to complex issues, which are hardly possible to be done manually.

1 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 08-15

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[3] The Programmed Wall Zurich, 2006 Gramazio & Kohler

Figure A2.3 The fabrication process of programmed wall http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

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"A robot is not only quicker, more precise, and more productive, but it also enables complex designs that are impossible for a human to build with that level of accuracy."1 The first precedent of design computation is â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Programmed Wallâ&#x20AC;? by Fabio Gramazio and Matthias Kohler. It was a research project in 2006 that investigate the design potential for brick using digital fabrication. At that time, it was considered a radical invention as it resolved the limited flexibility of brick modules to produce fluid form. It would be extremely difficult to produce complex curvilinear walls if using traditional design and construction methods since mason cannot lay the brick as accurately as computer does, even with extra tool.

Brick masonry construction has declided significantly in western countries due to high cost of masonry labor and long duration of construction process that causes even higher cost. 2 Thus, this research may brick back the popularity of masonry construction since it has solved the shortcomings of this method.

In addition to faster and relatively cheaper construction process, digital fabrication allows designers to supervise the construction process since the robot is controlled digitally.

In conclusion, there has been a change in the use of computer in design and construction indusry. Previously, computer was only used as a tool to digitize drawings, but today designers use computer to do the construction process, allowing accurate result and more resolved outcome.

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Figure A2.4 The curvilinear iterations http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

Figure A2.5 The logic is applied in vertical and horizontal direction http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

BASIC LOGIC Gramazio and Kohler started the design by creating possible iterations of curvilinear surfaces (Figure A2.4).

Next, they create the logic based on procedural logic of laying brick in traditional masonry.3 “A brick is laid to another brick, shifted, and perhaps rotated until the end of a row is reached. The next row is then shifted by half of the brick width, and the previous procedure is repeated, and so on until the desired height is reached.”4 This logic is applied to both vertical and horizontal direction, which eventually create a curvilinear wall (Figure A2.5).

1 Gramazio, F., & Kohler, M. (2008). Towards a digital materiality. In B. Kolarevic, & K.R. Klinger, Manufacturing material effects: rethinking design and making inarchitecture (p 113). NewYork: Routledge.

2 Kareem El Sayed Mouhammad. “Potential Innovative use of conventional building materials: Case Studies on Masonry and Stone Constructions”, Alexandra University. http://www.academia.edu/1454683/Innovative_use_of_conventional_materials 3 Nick Dunn, Digital Fabrication in Architecture (London: Laurence King Publishing, 2012),53.

4 Gramazio and Kohler, 2008.

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[4] ICD/ ITKE Pavilion Stuttgart, 2010 Achim Menges

Figure A2.6 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

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Figure A2.7 FEM modelling showing the bending stress across the form http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

ICD Pavilion is a research project by University of Stuttgart that uses innovative design process that is more efficient than in the past. In conventional design process, the form was generated first before moving to materiality. In contrast, the designers of ICD Pavilion started the project by studying the behavior of the material they would like to use. The test the bending stress of the material physically (Figure A2.8). Next, the results were then transformed into algorithms that would determine the form.

After setting the logic, the designers used software such as FEM Modelling to let computer generate the possible forms that satisfy the logic.1 This computational design technique is far more efficient than the conventional design process because the final form is structurally efficient since the form is generated from the behavior of the material itself.

This precedent shows that computational design technique allows designers to increase the efficiency in construction using the natural behavior of material using parametric algorithms.

1 Moritz Fleischmann, Jan Knippers, Julian Lienhard, Achim Menges and Simon Schleicher, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in computational design Processesâ&#x20AC;?, Material Computation: Higher Integration in Morphogenetic Design, Architectural Design 82,2 (2012): 44-51.

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Figure A2.8 Physical Experiment on bending behavior of material plywood strips http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

Figure A2.9 Bending Stress data analysis http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

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Figure A3.1 The subdivided columns by Michael Hansmeyer http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html?screenSize=1&color=1

[A.3] FROM COMPOSITION TO GENERATION

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Not only can computer assist human in digital fabrication and construction, but also in generating forms. Generation is one of computational techniques that allow architects to explore forms during design process. So instead of composing the geometry from the start, designers create a constructive logic and let computer generates the forms, thus the outcome is emerging beyond the intellect of designers.

To use generative approach, architects need to generate an algorithm based on certain logic. The key feature of algorithm is that it is made of definite set of operations and is easy to follow1. The movement of each particle is affected by the relationship to its neighbors, and at the same time is affecting how the neighboring particles move. This simple rule results in unpredictable and infinite number of possible forms and the architect can then choose the best iterations amongst them.

However, despite the above advantages of using generative design approach in the design process, there are also disadvantages associated with it. One of the major problems caused by digital architecture is that it creates gap between the architects and the end products. This happens because some architects are lacking of algorithmic scripting skills, thus often they invite scripting experts to optimize the initial concepts they had2. In this case, the architects can only contribute to the concepts and overall shape of the building, but they cannot involve during the form generation process. Therefore it is necessary for architects to develop their knowledge in scripting to catch up with the trend of digital architecture.

The precedent in the previous section (A2 Design Computation) - the programmed wall- has given an idea of how the wall is generated from algorithm. The following precedents – Brass Swarm and Subdivided columns – will further demonstrate how architects can generate a complex from a basic logic using parametric design approach.

1 Definition of ‘Algorithm’ in Wilson, Robert A. and Frank C. Keil, eds (1999). The MIT Encyclopedia of the Cognitive Sciences (London: MIT Press), pp. 11 2 Asterios Agkathidis and Elizaveta Edemskaya, “Vladimir Shukhov: A Critical Review on Digital Architecture,” eCAADe 33 (2015): 1.

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[5] Agent Bodies + Swarm Intelligence Melbourne, 2004 Kokkugia

Figure A3.3 Swarm Composite Kokkugia Research http://www.kokkugia.com/woven-composites

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+

SWARM INTELLIGENCE

Figure A3.4 Swarm Intelligence Kokkugia Research http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/swarm-intelligence/swarm-intelligence 32

Agent Bodies

Figure A3.5 Agent Bodies Kokkugia Research http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/agent-bodies/ agentbodies

Ronald Snooks is a Melbourne architect who has strong interest in computational design processes and robotic fabrication techniques. In his experimental architecture research called Kokkugia, he and his partner Robert Stuart- Smith explore generative design practices based on the logic of complex self-organizing behavior of systems1.

Two of the main research agendas that they are working on are Swarm Intelligence and Agent Bodies.

1. Agent Bodies is multi-agent used to design complex tectonics. The logic of it came from the conceptualization of ant bridges, which demonstrates the interrelated geometry of ant bodies when forming Ant Bridge.

2. Swarm intelligence is an algorithm that draws from the logic of collective behavior that happens intuitively, such as in flocking of birds and schooling of fish.

From these two logics, Ronald Snooks generate seven different forms, which are completely different one to another. It is interesting how simple logics can result in varied impressive results that you would not have expected that they all come from the same logic. Two of the researches are Brass Swarm (Figure A3.6) and Composite Swarm, shown in the previous page (FigureA3.3).

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Brass Swarm

Figure A3.5 Brass Swarm Prototype in Shanghai 2015 http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/agent-bodies/brassswarm

1 Kokkugia, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Research Agendasâ&#x20AC;?, accessed 9 August 2015, from http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/research/research-agendas 33

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[6] Subdivided Columns Gwangju Design Bienalle, 2011 Michael Hansmeyer

Figure A3.10 Subdivided columns by Michael Hansmeyer http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

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Figure A3.11 Typical doric column used for setting the initial logic Figure A3.12a (above) The subdivision process in 2D Figure A3.12b (below) Variation of ratios in parameter http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

BASIC LOGIC Subdivided columns consists of 2.7 m high different abstracted doric columns. In this project, Hansmeyer used typical doric column as the basic logic. The input form contains rules about the fluting, entasis, and proportion of doric columnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shaft, capital, and supplemental base1 (Figure A3.11).

GENERATIVE DESIGN APPROACH Next, the initial input goes through heterogeneous process of subdivision algorithm, which divides a surface into smaller surfaces. Figure A3.12a records the gradual process of subdivision in 2D form. It initially started with 3 lines, then they divided again and again, resulted in complex form on the right. Moreover, Hansmeyer did not only do sub36

division in XY plane, but also in Z direction, forming even more sophisticated results. During the subdivision process, Hansmeyer also varied the parameter of division ratio, shown in Figure A3.12b.

From this precedent, it is evident that generative method of designing has exceeded human intelligence as it allows exploration in 3D form which is impossible to be done by analog design due to physical constraints of 2D medium.

FABRICATION PROCESS However, the disadvantage of generative design occur when exploration go beyond the capability of fabrication technology.

For instance, Hansmeyer admitted the difficulty during the fabrication process of

Figure A3.13 Several iterations of subdivided columns Figure A3.14 Fabrication process of subdivided columns in Gwangju Design Biennale 2011 http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

the subdivided columns for the Gwangju Design Biennale in 2011.

The columns were fabricated layer by layer using 2700 sheets of 1mm cardboard2. The sheet was individually cut by laser cutter, and stacked around a common core to hold them together.

The detailed curvy form makes it extremely difficult to be 3D printed as the parts are prone to breaking off.

The architect designs a “process that produces a column, rather than designing a column directly.

“

Michael Hansmeyer

From Michael Hansmeyer’s experience, we learn that during generative design process, it is crucial to think of constructability as the limit of the exploration in generative process.

1 Michael Hansmeyer , “Subdivided Columns - a New Order”, accessed 10 August 2015, from <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info. html?screenSize=1&color=1>.

2 Ibid

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[A4] Conclusion In conclusion, we are now living in the era where the human population is significantly increasing, while on the other hand the resources are decreasing. Due to concern of insufficient amount of resources to sustain the needs of generations to come, human, inclusing designers, need to change their behavior and way of thinking. Design futuring looks towards sustainability, in which the design must incorporate with the environment so that it minimises negative impacts to the environment.

Computational approach, unlike computerization, uses computer as a tool in assisting designers to analyse and solve complex problems, thus giving the most efficitent solution to minimise the impact on environment. For instance, The position of PV panels in Endesa pavilion is based on the computational data of sun path in Barcelona. The architect used parametric design to create the form that can optimise the input of radiation energy to every single PV panels. This is impossible to be done manually without the aid of computer, therefore computational technique is critical for designers to achieve Design Future.

In addition to that, computational architecture includes generative design approach which enable designers to generate complex forms. With this method, instead of composing the geometry from the start, designers start with making algorithm that makes the logic of movement. Next, the computer will create infinite number of possible outcomes based on the logic, and designers can choose several iterations that work and they can develop them even further. This allow designers to come up with unexpected yet interesing discoveries.

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[A5] Learning Outcome Within these three weeks, I realised that computational technique really is a beneficial approach in designing. It brings many disadvantages, such as for exploring new material, material optimisation, and increasing efficiency of construction. More importantly, it helps architects to generate forms beyond 2 dimensional medium which was previoulsly a limitation when using analog design method. Generative design approach allows designers to come up with complex forms beyond the imagination of the designers themselves.

In some cases the exploration may go too far and create issue during the fabrication , such as in Hansmeyer subdivided columns project. However, I believe that in the future the fabrication technology will get more advanced and able to accomodate the exploration of generative design approach.

As the advantages overcome the disadvantages, I believe that generative design approach will replace the analog design approach and become the trend in years to come (or even now). For this reason, I think it is important for me to learn algorithmic software such as Grasshopper for my future career in architecture practice.

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[A6] Appendix: Algorithmic Sketches

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Week 1 These are the first attempt of my exploration on Grasshopper. At this stage, due to my limited understanding on Grasshopper inputs, the exploration is based on trial and error, thus the results are random and some of them are failed.

I played a lot wih triangulation inputs, such as octree, voronoid, and metaball.

I combined the triangulation inputs with surface commands such as pipes and lofts to create geometry.

This exercise has given me a better understanding on how computational design strategy in the precedents work. Different inputs and variable parameters can result in various complex iterattions, which often create unpredictable yet interesting outcome.

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Week 2 In the second trial, I tried to experiment with surface panelling. I create two different geometries, which are circles and lines,,as the panels on lofted curves.

I did not expect the outcome would be this interesting. The panels create shadows when rendered, causing even more dramatic effect.

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In this exercise, I experiment with contours and geodesic inputs. From the contour lines, I also try to divide it into points, and use octree, shown at the bottom right images.

However, this experiment failed because the points are too close to one another, thus the boxes are concentrated to one area only.

I also played with changing the contours in X, Y, and Z direction and it came up with interesting result (top right image) I look forward to continue learning Grasshopper throughout the rest of this semester and I believe that this will help my design process in the future.

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Week 3

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Fry, Tony. 2008. Design Futuring: Sustainaibility, Ethics, and New Practice (Oxford: Berg).

Markopoulou, A. & Rubio, R. “Smart living Architecture: Solar Prototype”, Constructions: an Experimental Approach to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015).

City of Melbourne. About CH2 Building, accessed 10 August 2015, from https://www.melbourne.vic. gov.au/Sustainability/CH2/aboutch2/Pages/AboutCH2.aspx Gramazio, F., & Kohler, M. (2008). Towards a digital materiality. In B. Kolarevic, & K.R. Klinger, Manufacturing material effects: rethinking design and making inarchitecture (p 113). NewYork: Routledge.

Mouhammad,K. “Potential Innovative use of conventional building materials: Case Studies on Masonry and Stone Constructions”, Alexandra University. http://www.academia.edu/1454683/Innovative_use_ of_conventional_materials Dunn, N. Digital Fabrication in Architecture (London: Laurence King Publishing, 2012),53.

Fleischmann, M. et. al, 2012. “Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in computational design Processes”, Material Computation: Higher Integration in Morphogenetic Design, Architectural Design 82,2, pp 44-51.

Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2.

Definition of ‘Algorithm’ in Wilson, Robert A. and Frank C. Keil, eds (1999). The MIT Encyclopedia of the Cognitive Sciences (London: MIT Press).

Agkathidis, A. & Edemskaya, E. 2015. “Vladimir Shukhov: A Critical Review on Digital Architecture,” eCAADe (33).

Kokkugia, “Research Agendas”, accessed 9 August 2015, from http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/research/research-agendas.

Hansmeyer, M. “Subdivided Columns - a New Order”, accessed 10 August 2015, from <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info.html?screenSize=1&color=1> .

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Bibliography

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[B]

CRITERIA DESIGN 51

Figure B1.1 The ICD/ITKE Pavilion 2013/2014 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/wp-content/gallery/rp2013-14-icd-itke/folie24.jpg (acessed 20 September 2015)

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[B.1] RESEARCH FIELD: BIOMIMICRY

As discussed in the previous chapter, architecture is now moving towards sustainability as human has caused huge damage to nature in the past and if we continue to do that, the future generations wouldn’t be able to have enough resources to survive.

Fortunately, the best precedents for the solution is just around us: biological entities. Janine Benyus claims that “(w)hen we look at what is truly sustainable, the only real model that has worked over long periods of time is the natural world.” The reason is because nature has been striving for millions of years, yet its existence doesn’t bring negative impact to its surrounding.

"When we look at what is truly sustainable, the only real model that has worked over long periods of time is the natural world. "1 -Janine Benyus-

The term biomimicry and biomimetics are often used interchangeably, while in fact they are slightly different. Michael Pawlyn defines biomimicry as “mimicking the functional basis of biological forms, processes, and systems to produce sustainable solutions”2. In contrast, biomimetic is is a general term for imitating the elements of nature. The main difference here is that biomimicry does not only generate biomorphic forms to imitate nature’s appearance, but more importantly learning from its behavior to find out a solution for more sustainable practices.

Therefore, I will use biomimicry as the foundation of my design by incorporatng nature’s characteristics as the solution for the issues on Merri Creek.

1. Janine Benyus, Ted Talk Biomimicry in Action, July 2009, http://www.ted.com/talks/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_action?language=en 2. Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 2

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[1] Palazzetto delloPierSport Luigi Nervi Rome, Italy, 1962 (a)

(b)

(c)

a. The Oculus in plan https://www.pinterest.com/pin/569353577864421959/ b. Inspired by the Amazon giant water lily leaf Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 8. c. Section of Palazzetto dello Sport. http://www.urbipedia.org/images/5/51/Palazzetto_dello_sport.Planos1.jpg

Michael Palwyn in his book “Biomimicry in Architecture argues that nature is able to use material effeciently due to its evolved ingenuity of form, such as folding, vaulting, and inflation. Nature continuously refining its structure to be able to survive, so the characteristics that we can see today is the best structure nature can be throughout the entire process of evolution. For that reason learning from the nature surround us today will give us inspiration for creating a sustainable and effective structure.

Design Implication & Opportunities In this example, Nervi was inspired by the efficient use of network of ribs in Amazon water lily that are able to stiffen large area of leaf without adding significant thickness. In this project, Nervi combined the structural strength produced by the interconnecting ribs as well as dome action to support wide thin planar surface. 1 As a result, he created extremely efficient structures and minimised the overall material cost.

Fabrication In this project, Nervi makes use of the advantage of his invention of reinforced concrete called ‘ferro cemento’ which is elastic and strong thus allowing him to create complex form.

(left) The Oculus of Palazzetto dello Sport. http://www.architectural-review.com/Journals/2012/01/30/e/k/j/020a-palazzetto-IMG_7467.jpg 1. Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 9

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ICD / ITKE Pavilion 2014/15 http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

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[2] ICD/ITKE Pavillion 2014/2015 Inst. for Computational Design (Prof.

(c)

(a) Microscopic image of Diving Bell Water Spider (Agyroneda aquatica) nest http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

Menges) Inst. of Building Structures & Structural Design (Prof. Knippers)

(b) Water Spider http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

Design Implication & Opportunities This project was inspired by the underwater nest construction of the water spider.

As water spider spends most of its life under water, they build a reinforced air bubble to survive. To begin with, the spider builds a horizontal sheet web as the base for putting the air bubble. Next, the air bubble is progressively reinforced by laying a hierarchical arrangement of fibers from within(shown in figure a). This results in a stable structure that can withstand mechanical stresses, including changing water currents, thus providing a safe and stable habitat for the spider.

Fabrication ICD/ITKE Pavilion 2015 takes this natural production process to create efficient fiber-reinforced structures using industrial robot.

Initially, the robot is placed within an air supported membrane envelope made of ETFE. Next, the robot is programmed to reinforce the inside with carbon fiber to gradually stiffened the structure into a self-supporting structure. The carbon fibers are only applied to area that require structural reinforcement, which results in a resource efficient construction process.

Robotic placement of carbon fiber reinforcement layers http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

Various fiber reinforcement strategies

1. Universitat Stuttgart, accessed 20 September 2015, http://icd.unistuttgart.de/?p=12965.

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Figure B2.1 Biothing Seriossi Pavilion http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2637/3709156721_4c01a33f6f_b.jpg (acessed 20 September 2015)

[B.2] CASE STUDY 1.0: Biothing Seriossi Pavilion

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1 2 3 4

a. Points

b. Curves

c. Hexagonal Grid

d. Sine and Cosine Function

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5 6 7

8

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B.2. Selected Outcome Selection Criteria Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m planning to design a fishway at Dight Falls, therefore the requiremen for the brief is to create a pathway that can slower down the flow of the water with low slope, so that fish can swim from upstream to downstream, and vice versa.

Therefore, my selection criteria is a form that has rough surface, to achieve my intention in slowing down the water movement. However, the surface canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too sharp because otherwise it may harm the fish.

I chose the iterations on the left as the best 4 because these form have successfully created rough surface.

Speculation upon design potential The iterations might help in generating rough form which I may attach on the wall of the fishway.

However, fabrication becomes a big issue since the iterations are all in the form of lines, thus I may need to think of materials that are flexible and thin, such as using fibre. Furthermore, it has to be waterproof since my design will be placed underwater.

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1 I like the shape in the middle that appears like a mountain. However, the top is too shape so I might need to change it to smoother shape

2 This, again, appears like mountainous surface. In comparison to iteration , this shape is smoother, however it is separated to one another so it looks like segmented.

3 This shape reminds me of a coral that is soft and flexible. I might be able to use this shape to mimick the natural coral which also slow down water current.

4 The final iteration is the most unique one. I generated this form by combining sine and cosine graph together. In relation to the brief, this might be the sectional view of a fishway tunnel, which would be interesting!

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Figure B3.1 Floraform jewelry http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

[B.3] CASE STUDY 2.0: Flora Form Florescence Jewelry

by Nervous System

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Figure B3.1 Floraform inspiration http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

About Floraform is a project developed by Nervous system. They got inspiration from the biomechanics of growing leaves and blooming flowers. This project mimicks the development of natural surfaces through differential growth. The simulation results in a curly unique form which then are 3d printed to make jewelry and sculpture .

I chose this particular project because this may be the solution to my agenda, which is to create a rough and uneven surfaces.

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B.3. The Process 1

Set 6 curves

2

3

Populate Geometry + Construct Delaunay Triangulation Mesh

Run Kangaroo Solver

N.B. the edges of the curve needs to have more points (to achieve curly effect)

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Input: - Sphere Collide - Show -Smooth - Length (Line)

4

Select The edges of the mesh using Cull Pattern, then subdivide using Weaverbirdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Split Triangles Subdivision to get more points

5

6

Repeat procedure 3 (Kangaroo Solver) to achieve more curly effect

Bake Repeat the process several times and combine the mesh

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[B.4] TECHNIQUE: DEVELOPMENT

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1 2 3

a

b

c

Species 1: Torus Delaunay Mesh

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4

1 2 3

4

a

b

c

Species 2: Cone Delaunay Mesh

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1 2

3

a

b

c

Species 3: Kangaroo generated Mesh

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1 2 3

4

a

b

c

Species 4: Lines

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1 2 3

a

b

c

Species 5: Plankton Mesh

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4

B.4. Selected Outcome

In this part, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still aiming to generate uneven and rough form. The outcome produced is more desireable than in part B.2. By using Kangaroo plugin, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m able to generate form based on physics logic sphere collide. The colllision of every single sphere create a curly effect. The most successful one is C because it create a curly strips that I can adopt to my fishway design.

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[B.5] TECHNIQUE: PROTOTYPE

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For the prototype, I 3D print one of my successful iteration using powder printer which is waterproof.

I experiment the water movement in 2 different surface. First I put my 3DPrint form into the the bottle, forming rough surface. When I put dye into the water, I can see that the dye was hold by the rough thus it moves slower than in smooth surface.

This indicates that my initial speculation was correct and it should be able to slower down the water movement in the fishway.

1. Powder Print the model

2. Prepare Red Dye

3. Place the model in the bottle

4. Pour tap water into the bottle

5. Put a drop of red dye into the water

5. Open the bottle lid to let water flow

6. The Red Dye indicate the flow of water

7. The model has successfully slowed down the water flow

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[B.6] TECHNIQUE: PROPOSAL

Client:

Australian Grayling â&#x20AC;&#x153; Grayling have undergone severe declines in most of their known habitats and are now listed as vulnerable at a State and National level.â&#x20AC;?

Melbourne Water

Distribution Map of Australian Grayling

Source: Australian Government, Department of Environment, 2015 http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=26179

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Source: Melbourne Water, 2015

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Dight Falls Timeline Source: Melbourne Water

1895 a timber structure was built to provide water to the Melbourne Flour Milling Company.

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1940 The timber weir was broken thus require new structure

1968 the original timber piles were capped by concrete, replacing the timber deck

1993

Melbourne Water realized that the weir was a barrier to fish migration, thus they constructed a rock fishway to allow fish to move around the weir.

2012

2015

The rock fishway was partly effective thus they built vertical slot fishway

?

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Diagram of the existing Fishway at Dightfalls Dight Falls Weir and Fishway Project 2010-2012 FISHWAY GRATES

Entry

FISH MOVEMENT UPSTREAM

Exit

Refer to Internal Plan View

INTERNAL VIEW OF FISHWAY

30.8m

INTERNAL PLAN VIEW

4.4m

1

3

5 2

ession

6

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4

Source: Melbourne Water http://melbournewater.com.au/whatwedo/projectsaroundmelbourne/Documents/Dights_Falls_Artist%20Impression.pdf 1

New Weir

The new weir will be similar in height,

2

Vertical Slot Fishway & Viewing Platform

3

ARTIST IMPRESSION OF THE NEW WEIR AND FISHWAY AT DIGHTS FALLS

Interpretive Signage

Interpretive signage will provide the

5

Landscaping

The area around the ďŹ shway will be

6

Concrete Access Path

A path will connect the existing mill

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Exploded Axonometric Diagram

of major elements required in Fishway at Dight Falls 1. Compartments

2. Outer and inner walls

3. Base with slope 1:18

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My design intention is to keep the major elements that are necessary in Fishway as designed by the engineer, but transforming the wall shape maximise its efficiency.

A research of innovative fishway design by Martin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner in June 2008 concludes that

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Manipulating Turbulance by adding wall roughness in the vertical slot design can improve performanceâ&#x20AC;?

Previously they use PVC Pipes to achieve this, as shown in figure below. For this reason, instead of using PVC pipes, I want to change the wall texture to achieve the same outcome but minimising the cost and use of extra material.

Render of Proposed Design

Source: Innovative Fishway Design

by Martin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner June 2008

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[B.7] Learning Objectives & Outcome

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In the past 9 weeks in Air Studio, I have learned so much and my skills in using Rhino and grasshopper has improved significantly.

The research has made me have a better and clearer understanding of coputational design. Furthermore, I found some precedents that are very useful in generating ideas and forms.

Now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m able to create, manipulate, and design using parametric modelling. For instance, when I first look at the precedent of Floraform for my Case Study 2 project, I had no idea how to form such unique shape lilke that. Fortunately, by doing research and help from my tutor, I can successfully made similar shape. In the future I will keep learning to be more advanced in computational design which I found very useful.

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[B.8] AppendixAlgorithmic Sketches

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89

90

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ICD / ITKE Pavilion 2014/15. http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965 Janine Benyus, Ted Talk Biomimicry in Action, July 2009, http://www.ted.com/talks/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_ action?language=en Michael Pawlyn, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biomimicry in Architectureâ&#x20AC;?(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011) Melbourne Water. Accessed September 2015, from http://melbournewater.com.au/whatwedo/projectsaroundmelbourne/Documents/Dights_Falls_Artist%20Impression.pdf.

Martin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner. 2008/ Innovative Fishway Design.

Nervous system. Floraform. http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

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Bibliography

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[C]

Detailed Design 95

[C1] Design Concept Brief: LIVING ARCHITECTURE propose an architectural intervention that will express, support, amplify, or question continuous relationships between technical, cultural, and natural systems

Reflecting on Individual Feedback

Yuliana Widjaja

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Hsin Yeh

BeDIGHT

PLANT-NET

Concept : Fishway at Dight Falls Opportunity: The curly shape is unique and interesting. However, the practicality of the structure need to be considered.

Concept : Pavilion at Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market Opportunity: The triangle pattern is interesting, however need a clear reason of what the pattern and form are inspired from. The overall shape of the pavilion should correspond to the site analysis, such as from sun path. Furthermore, more suitable material and construction method need to be figured out.

After reflecting on the comments and suggestions from our interim presentation, we decided to create a Fishway at Dight Falls as proposed by Yuliana, and combined it with mesh patterning skill that Hsin, James, and Tingru got.

to Collaborative Idea

Tingru Liu

James Gibbs

NET TOWER

HEXA-GONE

Concept : Interactive structure suspended above water & ground at CERES Environment Park.

The network pattern is simple but strong enough to load certain weight. Furthermore, light material (lycra) is used which enable it be hung on trees.

Concept : a series of shelters design to be built in modular parts and placed in such a way as the nature would grow around and into them.

Opportunity: Coding looked into shift listing the points on Hexagons to create patterns through each.

Opportunity: The mesh pattern form generation

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Existing Fishway at Dight Falls

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Precedent: Ozaukee County, WI

Source: http://www.prrsum.org/sites/prrsum.org/files/UMSRS%203.24.14_AStruck.pdf

< The current vertical slot Fishway at Dight Falls is working efficiently compared to the prior rock ramp fishway. However, the huge concrete structure is blocking the nice panorama behind. For this reason, we would like to redesign the shape to enhance the aesthetic without changing the engineered system that is proven to be effective.

^ A project run by PRRSUM (Partnership for River Restoration and Science in the Upper Midwest) has proven that fishway could ehance the living ecosystem in the river and improve water quality. This long yet curvy fishway does not distract the view and look nicer in comparison to the existing Fishway at Dight Falls which is gigantic and boxy. For this reason, our design intention is to transform the existing fishway to a structure that merge into the site.

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Site Analysis

MERRI CREEK

YARRA RIVER

DIGHTS FALL

DOWNSTREAM

UPSTREAM

ABBOTSFORD CONVENT

COLLINGWOOD CHILDREN’S FARM CAPITAL CITY TRAIL

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RESIDENTIAL

ATTRACTIONS

WATER

ROAD

HUMAN ACCESS

VEGETATION

N

Site Response

< The site is located at Dight Falls, where Merri Creek meets Yarra River. Dight Falls is one of place of interest along the Merri Creek Trail.

Furthermore, it is located fairly close to Abbotsford Convent and Collingwood Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farm, which is a good opportunity for this project.

^ Site Model Scale 1:200

Form Finding Diagram

The overall shape for the fishway derived from the shape of Yarra River itself, specifically where it meets Merri Creek. The initial curve was then adapted to the topography of the landscape

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Technique Diagram Repeat the process to get more curly outcome

Curve for the basic shape

Extrude in Z direction

Brep

Mesh machine to triangulate mesh regularly

Plankton Mesh to subdivite the edges into smaller triangles

Basic curve

^ Form Finding using Kangaroo Solver

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Mesh

Rotate

Scale mesh to get minimum length of 1 (since Kangaroo cannot run if it is less than 1)

Smooth Length (Line)

Deconstruct Mesh Curve Closest Point

Kangaroo Solver

Sphere Collide

Deconstruct Mesh

Cull Pattern

Item

Mesh

Anchor

Smaller than

Form Generation The technique for the the curly shape is inspired by the FloraForm Jewelry by Nervous System, as explored in Part B. I use Daniel Pikerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mesh Machine to remesh the surface to regular equilateral triangles. Note that the edges need to have smaller triangles than the center parts. Next, use Kangaroo Solver Sphere Collide to achieve curly outcome. I can control the form by changing the radius of the sphere or playing around with the strength of the force. The more the spheres collide, the curlier it will be.

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Pattern Diagram

The pattern is generated from a simple triangulate mesh. A leaf-shape curve is cut out in the midpoint of every side of the equilateral triangle.

Merge

Curve (Triangle Mesh)

Explode

Curve

Discontinuity Polygon Center

0.3

Evaluate

0.7

Evaluate

0.5

Evaluate

Cluster

Curve Closest Point

Cull Index

Point Merge

Merge P Shift

Join P. Shift Join

Boundary

Int Curve Merge

Cluster Line

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Shatter

Evaluate

P. Shift

Cluster

Int Curve

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Comparison Diagram Existing Fishway at Dight Falls

Proposed Design

Exploded Axonometric Diagram Compartment

PVC Pipes

Rocks

Compartment Rocks

Plan

Compartment

Compartment

Rocks

Rocks PVC Pipes Water Turbulance

Water Turbulance

Section

Compartment

PVC Pipes

Compartment

Water Turbulance

Water Turbulance Rocks

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Rocks

Section Diagram < The diagrams on the left show how the fishway work. We are using the same system done

by Engineers at the Existing Fishway which is already proven to be effective.

The existing fishway has box shape, and the pathway is a U turn with total length of approximately 60 metre and 24 compartments. The slope is 1: 18, or in other words, the fish will go up 10 cm by passing a single compartment thus 2.4 metre in total.

Instead of making a U-Turn pathway, we decided to make a curvy pathway but still 60 metre long in total. Curvy pathway makes the fishway seem integrated to the site.

Another issue with the existing fishway is they need to assemble PVC Pipes in between the compartments to control turbulance. Thus, instead of making the compartment flat, we change the shape to curly so that the shape of the compartment itself can slow down the water.

Advantages: NO PVC pipes required to maximise turbulance since the curly compartment is already slowing down the water

The section diagram shows the scale of the fishway in comparison to human and to its surrounding at the site. Parts of the curly shape will be above the water, approximately 1 m tall, which can be a decoration or where plants can grow.

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Construction Method: We divide the triangle mesh into strips, and use color code to identify the strip

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[C2] Tectonic Elements & Prototypes

1:1 Scale Prototype model using polypropylene as the material and laser cut the triangles

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The Process First and foremost, take out the strips from the laser cut sheet and label each strip to make it easier to join them together. Next, connect 2 strips together using the color code in Rhino as reference. Repeat this process and it will gradually form the shape.

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Test on Joints

1. Eyelet + : Strong joint, easy to assemble - : The joint is too big (7mm), we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find better colour for the eyelet

2. Rivet with Washer + : Strong joint, small in size(3mm) Have black and white color - : Hard to assemble

3. Stapler + : Easy to assemble, Small in size so the joint is invisible - : Weak

We decided on using rivet with washer because it has a strong joint and the size of the rivet fits perfectly with the triangles.

Tools Rivet

112

Washer

Rivet Gun

The Joint After testing three different types of joints (eyelet, rivet, and stapler) and considering their pros and cons, we chose rivet with washer as the final joint.

Even though it is harder to assemble than using eyelet, the outcome is much better since the colour of the rivet blends perfectly and the size of the rivet is proportionate to the model

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[C.3] Final Detail Model Site Model Scale 1:200

The first model we made is the site model, to show how the curly fishway integrate with the surrounding environments.

We Powder printed the curly fishway, and use laser cut for the contour.

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Compartment Model Scale 1:40

This model shows how the compartment as explained in part C1 will work. We powder printed the 4 compartments, and use laser cut to make the box which represent the soil.

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Compartment Model in detail

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Prototype Model

Test on site

Scale 1:1

We brought the prototype model to the site to test whether it can slow down the water flow and it did worked. As it slows down the water, the model twisted around making it looks like a living creature

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Prototype model placed next to river bank

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Prototype Model Scale 1:1

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Test on shadows, lighting, and its opportunity to be used as decorative elements.

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Fish Perspective Render

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Human Perspective Render

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[C4] Learning Objectives & Outcomes Objective 1 I learnt how every studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interpretation of a broad and general brief can be variable and I found each of them is unique and interesting Objective 2,3 I learnt how parametric modelling can assist me to generate and think of a variety of design possibilities in response to the brief.

Objective 4 My model making skills improved significantly as this subject push me to make prototype and test the joints and connection.

Objective 5 The feedback given by tutor and guest crits enable me to think critically and think of the problems my project might have, and think of the possible solution to them Objective 6, 7, 8 Learning Grasshopper is useful for my future career in contemporary architectural projects. When I looked back, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m amazed how my technical skills in grasshopper has improved.

References Fishway Precedent. Accessed October 2015. http://www.prrsum. org/sites/prrsum.org/files/UMSRS%203.24.14_AStruck.pdf

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Yuliana Kusuma Widjaja widjajay@student.unimelb.edu.au 2015 128