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AIR
ABPL 30048 ARCHITECTURE STUDIO AIR 2016 STUDIO 06 Julian Rutten Yuxiang Zhou 669009
contents Introducion__1 Part A__3 Part B__32 Part C__75
INTRODUCTION
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y name is Yuxiang Zhou. I am an undergraduate student at University of Melbourne. It’s the third year of my Bachelor of Environment, major in Architecture. I was born in China and received education until the second year of my high school. I stayed in Sydney for one year as an international foundation student in UNSW. I appreciate my experience in Sydney because I get the chance to know two metropolises of Australia so far. I know it’s more important in terms of architecture to know large-scale cities as an architectural student. I like building and design. Interestingly, I found I can replace them by one word, Architecture. That’s my reason to choose this major for my undergraduate study and future career. I already went through a set of architectural subjects in the past two years. Architectural design studios are my favorite subjects so far. Firstly, I learnt architectural histories and theories from them. Then, I tried to learn and use digital design programs in projects. One of my favorite architect is Antoni Gaudi, who designed the Sagrada Famila. I can’t even imagine how he deals with
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drawings and models on that time. He made a upside down model to evaluate the statics without the help of computer programs. I have to say that’s a great innovation on the day. However, it’s the time of technology. Although I can’t just say it’s necessary for every architect to use digital design programs, it’s vital for me. In the last two years, Although I touched on Rhino, Auto CAD, Photoshop, Indesign, and Illustrator for my projects, I am a freshman in parametric modelling as I never use Grasshopper before. I am glad to attend this Air Studio since this might be a starting point for me to explode free-form architecture, like Zaha’s projects. However, beyond dramatic form and parametric modelling, I believe technology serve for the future. I’ d like to find out how to connect technology and sustainability by architecture. Like the first title of journal saying, Design Futuring.
"The dominant mode of utilizing computers was that of computerization in the past, in contrast, computation or computing was generally limited as a computer-based design tool."[1]
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Part a contents A.01 Design Futuring __4 A.02 Design Computation __9 A.03 Design Composition and Gerneration__16 A.04 Conclusion__23 A.05 Learning Outcomes__24 A.06 Algorithmic Explorations__28
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A1. Design Futuring
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city of dreams hotel tower Zaha Architects
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aha hadid will complete this 40-storey hotel tower as part of the ‘city of dreams‘ development. the sculptural design forms part of a large-scale entertainment resort. establishing a strong relationship with its surroundings, the tower is envisioned as a landmark structure and a strong presence within the site.[2] the tower’s design resolves the many complex programs for the hotel within a single cohesive envelope. With 40 floors and a gross floor area of 150,000 square meters, the tower houses approximately 780 guestrooms, suites and sky villas. The hotel also includes a variety of meeting and event facilities, gaming rooms, lobby atrium, restaurants, spa, and sky pool. [3] The concept focus on organizing these functions in a monolithic form. The building is made up of two towers, which are designed to be guestroom sector. They are connected at the podium levels and the roof, while additional bridges span a series of voids carved into the singular volume. The bridge is designed to be the internal public space which also link residential sectors together. I think it’s a efficient design to manage the visitor flow. One of the other innovation on the bridge is to merge traditional architectural elements of roof, wall and ceiling to create a sculptural form. This form obscures the boundaries between these elements.
The application of exoskeleton is remarkable as well. It's clear from the image that the facade comprise two skins. The inner skin looks like curtain walls as same as most of high-rise commercial buildings. However, the outer skin make this building expressive and powerful. This structure reminds me of a tower from the George Washington Bridge. The exposed exoskeleton not only presents a visually engaging and dynamic façade, but also allows for the optimization of internal programming by reducing internal structural requirements. This concept, in terms of structure, define its formal composition and emphasis the monolithic appearance again. The last feature I would like to mention is the entrance. Entrances to the building are integrated within the external fabric. Vehicles drop off visitors under the area like the porch. Architect also rejected the insertion of unnecessary elements for the entrance. This tower was maintained to be a singular volume by many efforts. City of Dreams Hotel Tower is under construction and expected to open in early 2017. It is important to see Zaha’s design was commissioned and built. It will update people's knowledge on hotels or resorts. There might be a phenomenal effect on future buildings around that area. The parametric modelling methods will be raised as they are vital tools to develop this type of buildings.
Fig.1 >
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AERIAL ROBOTIC BRIDGE Kokkugia
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t's a research project done by a post-professional masters design thesis studio of AA school of architecture. Swarm Printing, refer to Aerial Robotic Construction, explores algorithmic and robotic behavioral methods of design that capitalise on emerging aerial construction opportunities made possible utilizing today’s multicopters (UAVs), or drones.[4] The first feature is this team try to use an additive fabrication technology to build large-scale construction. From the rendered image in the next page, this project was situated between two steep natural cliff faces. It provides a shortcut to an existing pedestrian route. The great leap from the 3D printing is the construction of network, lightweight cantilever and bridge structures is made possible in locations that are hard to access. Also, it take advantages of 3D printing, efficient and economical. There is no need for scaffolding on the construction process. It is necessary to mention that it is would be complicated to set scaffolding on locations like the research study site. I believe much money would be spent on the construction process instead of the finished project. The second feature is a great one. This research argues that design and production can be developed as a singular creative process based on the behaviors of robotic systems
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and composite materials. In this project, three key points are pre-designed algorithm, drones, communications (realtime environmental feedback and structure feedback), and instant decision making beyond communications. Architecture is a system of communications in a way. The main strategy of this research reflects the concept of autopoeisis. The concept was first introduced within biology to describe the essential characteristic of life as a circular organization that reproduces all its specific components out of its own life-process. In this project, drones form a workin-process system that covers both individual and team-oriented swarm robotics and engages in non-linear construction processes that involve real-time decision making and site adaptation. It is capable to engage with today’s complex urban, rural and natural environments with more intricacy and tailoring than is possible through conventional architectural design.[5] Overall, although it is an unbuild prototypical design project, it explored new efficient connective bridging possibilities, and most importantly, it is a remarkable application of autopoeisis.
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'The phenomenon of architecture can be most adequately grasped if it is analyzed as an autonomous network (autopoietic system) of communications'.[6]
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A2. Design Computation
The first evolution of architectural design was in 1450s, when it became a professional practice and architects started to invent design methods. Drawings and scale models are not only seen as the communication tools with clients and builders, but allowed architects to experiment with alternative design solutions and test them on paper.[7] The second evolution, in my perspective, is the Computer-Aided Design. This evolution is closely related with technology and computer science development from the birth of first computer ‘mouse’ prototype in 1964. Architectural design, not as exact same as art, need to deal with externally imposed constraints. As the architects, they are supposed to use both sides of the brain, that of creative and analysis. Computers, as the super analytical engines, hold the innate advantages of precise and faultlessly calculations and analyses. However, computers are incapable of making up new instructions since the lack of creative abilities or intuitions. Thus, computers contribute superb rational and search abilities and humans contribute all creativity and intuition regarding design problem. The dominant mode of utilizing computers was that of computerization in the past, in contrast, computation or computing was generally limited as a computer-based design tool. Design computation was still only seen by many as ‘just a tool’ and remote from the real business of creative design.[8] However, in recent years, several strategies attempt to change the situation. Computers are engaged more on the geometric form generation instead of only calculation and analysis. In the following texts, I would like to explain this movement further by discussing two remarkable precedents.
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Research Pavilion 2010 ICD/ITKE of University Stuggart
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n the physical world, material form is always inseparably connected to internal constraints and external forces; in the virtual space of digital design, though, form and force are usually treated as separate entities – divided into processes of geometric form generation and subsequent engineering simulation.[9] However, design computation provides the possibilities of integrating physical properties and material behavior as generative drivers in the architectural design process. In 2010, the Institute for Computational Design (ICD) and the Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE) designed and constructed a temporary research pavilion. The project team explained how feedback between computational design, advanced simulation and robotic fabrication expands the design space towards previously unexplored architectural possibilities.[10] The innovative structure demonstrates the latest developments in material-oriented computational design, simulation, and production processes in architecture. The structural analysis model is based on a FEM simulation. In order to simulate the intricate equilibrium of locally stored energy resulting from the bending of each element, the model needs to begin with the planar distribution of the 80 strips, followed by simulating the elastic bending and subsequent coupling of the strips.[11] The entire structure, with a diameter of more than twelve meters, can be constructed using only 6.5 millimeters thin birch plywood sheets. The detailed structural calculations would directly
suggest optical geometric forms. Forms are actually created by computation design instead of computerization. The other advance of this developed integrative computational tool is to directly output geometrical information to fabrication system. Based on 6400 lines of code, one integral computational process derives all relevant geometric information and directly outputs the data required for both the structural analysis model and the manufacturing with a 6-axis industrial robot.[12] According to results of structural analysis model, robot fabricated this structure by assembling 500 geometrically unique parts in 80 different strip patterns. The fabrication or construction methods will affect architectural design as well because it is necessary to rely on computer-robot workflow in some cases. In other words, it would be super complicated to fabricate structures with accurate calculations manually, particularly by numerous outputted data. Questioning the conventional hierarchy of form generation and materialisation, as well as the established typological approach to material-oriented design, has been a central area of study at the Institute for Computational Design (ICD) at the University of Stuttgart. The profound impact of integrating the characteristics of material behavior and materialisation processes in computational design thinking and techniques also allows for enriching material systems that have hitherto been considered ‘amorphic’ with novel morphological and tectonic possibilities.[13]
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“Parametric architecture opens for future architecture a whole world of new and revolutionary forms.�[14]
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Fig.4
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Galaxy Soho Zaha Architects
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alaxy SOHO project in central Beijing for SOHO China is a 330000m2 office, retail and entertainment complex that will become an integral part of the living city, inspired by the grand scale of Beijing. Four continuous, flowing volumes coalesce to create an internal world of continuous open spaces within Galaxy Soho. These volumes adapt to each other in all directions, generating a panoramic architecture without corners or abrupt transitions that break the fluidity of its formal composition. Four volumes that are set apart, fused or linked by stretched bridges, generate several courtyards in between them refer to the classical Chinese Courtyard. [15] The designed urban space is an information-rich social environment, a navigable and legible 360-degree interface of communication where interaction offerings are presented above, below and all around in layers, and where new deep vistas open up with each step forward. [16] Two major architects of Galaxy Soho is Zaha Hadid and Patrik Schumacher. Patrik Schumacher is partner at Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) and co-founder of the Architectural Association Design Research Lab (AADRL) in London. He launched ‘Parametricism’ at the 2008 Venice Architecture Biennial, he believed that Parametricism is architecture’s answer to contemporary, computationally empowered civilization, and is the only architectural style that can take full advantage of the computational revolution that now drives all domains of society.[17] Most recently, ‘Parametricism 2.0’ to emphasise a second phase
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focused on addressing real-world social and environmental problems.[18] It is a great leap from its main focus from computation and technological advancement towards social functions. The social functionality of architecture resides to a large extent in its communicative capacity. The built environment orders social processes through its pattern of spatial separations and connections that in turn facilitates a desired pattern of separate and connected social events. This is social organization via spatial organization.[19] In the other perspective, the functioning of the desired social interaction scenarios depends on the participants’ successful orientation and navigation within the designed environment. It relies on a new methodology: the use of crowd modelling (life-process modelling), that brings the meaning of the designed spaces – the designated functions or interaction processes – into the design model. Crowd modelling is a crucial device to represent the meanings of the designed architectural communication within the design model. Moretti argued that parametric architecture opens for future architecture a whole world of new and revolutionary forms. [20] However, the earlier Parametricism 1.0 works would be considered as explorations under the narrower definition of style soon, and Parametricism 2.0 will move on to apply powerful computational techniques to real and pressing social and environmental problems.[21]
A3.Compusition and gerneration The shift from composition to generation, in my interpretation, is actually the shift from ‘computerization’ to computation. According to the definition that mentioned in A.2, ‘computerization’ can be refer to the mode that architects use the computer as a virtual drafting board making it easier to edit, copy and increase the precision of drawings. On the other hand, ‘computation’ allows designers to extend their abilities to deal with highly complex situations. In a board definition, computation refer to the processing of information and interactions between elements which constitute a specific environment.[22] For example, many explorations have been made with computation to stimulate building performance. In the process of form finding, Patrik Schumacher introduced a new method of crowd-modelling in recent projects like Galaxy Soho. He believed that social functionality could be achieved in a project by the performance feedback. It is argued that computation has the potential to provide inspiration and go even beyond the intellect of the designer since the computer is capable to predict, model and simulate the encounter between architecture and the public by more accurate and sophisticated methods. In other words, computational tools have the ability to increase efficiency and allow for better communication between architect and public. However, the celebration of skills will withdraw architects from the real design objectives in some cases. The scripting should develop into an integrated art form instead of an isolated craft.[23] Computation has not become an intuitive way to design, much more concepts are needed to be tested in the shift from the drawing to the algorithm. Some of the world most famous practices have become the most forward-thinking architectural firm in computational design. I would like to mention projects of Foster + Partners and SOM.
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National Bank of Kuwait Foster + Partners
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he Specialist Modeling Group (SMG) has been established for 18 years at Foster + Partners and it remains at the forefront of advances in technology. It provides Fosters with expertise in computation, geometry and fabrication, as well as in environmental analysis and simulation. The strength of today’s team lies in its unique combination of individual expertise and the creative synergies that derive from a broad skills base.[24] This high-rise building is located on a prominent site in Kuwait City, the 300-metre-high headquarters tower for the National Bank of Kuwait. The design combines structural innovation with a highly efficient passive form, shielding the offices from the extremes of Kuwait’s climate, where temperatures average 40 degrees in the summer months. The tower’s cylindrical form opens like a shell to the north to avoid solar gain, while revealing views of the Arabian Gulf. The southern façade is shaded by a series of concrete fins, which extend the full height of the tower to provide structural support. SMG was involved from the early stages of the design, assigned to develop a parametric model that would integrate different performance parameters and would be able to explore complex geometrical solutions for the building.[25] The computational design is efficient and effective. Firstly, the parametric model provide various options that were further developed by the design team in early states. Then, the initial design was developed into a rational shape that considered various performance parameters, environmental, functional and operational requirements. And SMG also collaborated with engineering consultants throughout the design process.
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Fig.6
This design used the parametric modeling to tightly link the geometric relationships between its elements. The overall geometry wad driven by the orientation of the fins, profile of the edge fins, saw-tooth cladding between the fins, and the arcs that form the north facade. The fins were studied by calculations and analyses of solar, wind and acoustic performance, which were all directly affect the geometry of this building. [26]
Fig.7 Overall tower geometry showing the different levels of development, from wireframe model to a more detailed model that includes structural elements, cladding and the subdivision of glass elements. Both sides show the studies that influenced the design, including solar, wind and planarity analysis.
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Diagonal Tower, Yongsan Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
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kidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is an American architectural, urban planning, and engineering firm. It was formed in Chicago in 1936 and has become one of largest architectural firms in the world. There is a strong culture of collaboration between architects and engineers and the innovation in computational technologies. Currently, they work on finite element algorithms (FEA), gradient-based algorithms and genetic algorithms to inform their projects because they believed that the efficiencies of FE algorithms and power of computers mean that it is possible to evaluate a very large number of designs in a relatively short amount of time. [27] They even developed these algorithms in-house for explicit purposes in design phase. For example, FEA was used for functionality-optimization, GAs are used for shape-optimization experiments, while gradient-based algorithms are used for topology-optimization exercises. There are two remarkable examples of the utilization of GAs, that of Tanggu Convention Centre and Yongsan office tower. The convention centre has a undulate roof structure that is the outcome of a series of computational methods. They are defined by varying ceiling heights required for the performance spaces and circulation spaces beneath to achieve the most efficient distribution of stresses across its surface. Not only the long-span roof structures, the other implementation of GAs was in the Yongsan office tower. SOM mentioned that this diagonal tower combines massing, structure, and performance. In this project, the diamond-shaped frame only uses 75% steel comparing to a
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Fig.8
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Fig.11 conventional building.[28] The drivers behind outcomes are computational design methods, the geometry and structural performance were contributed by GA. The logic of the building form was parametrically predefined as a set of circular concentric floor-plate profiles whose radii were allowed to fluctuate in the optimization process according to maximum and minimum thresholds that would allow for marketable lease spans. In other words, the economic criteria were managed as constraints that had upper and lower boundaries, while the structural performance criteria were configured as the fitness function.[29]
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"Algorithmic tools such as FEA programs and GAs are critical to expediting processes of searching vast solution spaces for well-performing designs, and are facilitating the exploration of new, previously inaccessible theoretical paradigms and emergent formal typologies."[30]
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A4.Conclusion We have a long history of parametric design from the earlier work of Antoni Gaudi. However, the idea of parametric architecture became formal in 1940s by architect Luigi Moretti’s writing of ‘Architecttura Parametrica’.[31] Over the past few decades, parametric architecture was driven by the computation technologies. The dominant mode of utilizing computers was that of computerization in the past, in contrast, computation or computing was generally limited as a computer-based design tool. Early design work was often done through heavily misusing existing computer-aided design (CAD) software.[32] Thus design computation was still only seen by many as ‘just a tool’ and remote from the real business of creative design. However, it is exciting to see a rapid development on parametric design in the past few years. It exhibited an innovative and alternative approach to architecture, particularly in design process. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), as one of the largest architectural firm worldwide, not only focus on the collaboration between architecture and engineering by computational methods, but develop a few algorithmic tools such as FEA, GA, and gradient-based algorithmic to optimize functionality, geometry, and topology. Foster + Partners’ Specialist Modelling Group (SMG) explores the potential of computational design to achieve ever more energy-efficient forms. The group’s objectives were to develop the techniques and expertise that would enable the practice to design and build a new type of geometrically complex, environmentally responsive architecture. Patrik Schumacher, as a partner at Zaha Hadid Architects, launched ‘Parametricism 2.0’ that researched in a new approach to architectural semiology based on crowd simulation and the investigation of how a legible urban order might emerge on the basis of market processes under the auspices of Parametricism as a global best-practice methodology. In my opinion, there is no doubt that computational design or ‘Parametrism’ are to be the mainstream in the future because computation has the potential to provide inspiration based on more accurate calculations and sophisticated algorithmic methods. In other words, it definitely have the ability to increase efficiency and allow for better communication between architect and public. I would like to start my journey of parametric design from this studio, and most significantly, to catch up the advances of technology in the field of architecture.
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A5.Learning outcomes Firstly, I am appreciate I got the opportunity to study a new field of architecture, that of parametric design. Throughout this course so far I learnt some theories of computation which have already improved my knowledge and understanding in architecture. The reflection and feedback are my favorite parts in this subject so far. Through the engagement in the tutorial discussion, the supplied texts are to be argued even critiqued, from that I actually extend my understanding in these readings. And I was pushed forward by this journal because I was supposed to do further research to properly complete the weekly discussion topics. Finally, through the research I have done so far, I realize that it is necessary for me shift from computerization to computation, to explore the potential of computers that provides aspirations in the design process of my project.
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REFERENCES 1. Kestelier, Xavier De. ‘Recent Developments at Foster + Partners' Specialist Modelling Group,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 22-27 2. Designboom website. ‘zaha hadid in macau: city of dreams hotel tower under construction.’ < http://www. designboom.com/architecture/zaha-hadid-fifth-hotel-tower-city-of-dreams-macau-03-28-2014/> (accessed 9 March 2016) 3. Zaha Hadid Architects. ‘City of Dreams Hotel Tower’ Project, 2013. < http://www. zaha-hadid.com/architecture/city-of-dreams-hotel-tower-cotai-macau> (accessed 9 March 2016) 4. Kokkugia website. ‘SWARM-PRINTING.’ <http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/swarmprinting/swarm-printing> (accessed 9 March 2016) 5. Ibid 6. Schumacher, Patrik (2011). ‘The Autopoiesis ofArchitecture: A New Framework for Architecture’ (Chichester: Wiley), pp. 3 7. Kalay: Kalay, Yehuda E. (2004). Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of ComputerAided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press), pp. 6 8. Fraszer: Frazer, John. ‘Parametric Computation: History and Future.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp. 19 9. Fleischmann, Moritz. ‘Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in Computational Design Processes.’ Architectural Design. Vol 82, 2, pp. 45-51 10. Ibid 11. University Stuttgart. ‘ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010.’ <http://icd.unistuttgart.de/?p=4458> (accessed 12 March 2016) 12. Ibid 13. Menges, Achim. ‘Computational Material Culture.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86 (2016), 2, pp. 78 14. Luigi Moretti, ‘Ricercamatematica in architettura e urbabanisica’, Moebius: unitàdellacultura: architettura, urbanistica, 1971. Vol 1, pp.34 15. Zaha Hadid Architects. ‘Galaxy Soho’ Project, 2009. <http://www.zaha-hadid.com/architecture/galaxy-soho> (accessed 12 March 2016) 16. Schumacher, Patrik. ‘Advancing Social Functionality Via Agent-Based Parametric Semiology.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.112 17. Schumacher, Patrik. ‘Parametricism 2.0: Gearing Up to Impact the Global Built Environment.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.8-17 18. Frazer, John. ‘Parametric Computation: History and Future.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.21 19. Schumacher, Patrik. ‘Advancing Social Functionality Via Agent-Based Parametric Semiology.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.109 20. Menges, Achim. ‘Computational Material Culture.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86 (2016), 2, pp. 78 21. Frazer, John. ‘Parametric Computation: History and Future.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.21 22. Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 9 23. Ibid 24. Kestelier, Xavier De. ‘Recent Developments at Foster + Partners' Specialist Modelling Group,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 22-27 25. Popovska, Dusanka. ‘Integrated Computational Design: National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters,’
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Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 34-35 26. Ibid 27. Besserud, Keith., Katz, Neil., Beghini, Alessandro. ‘Structural Emergence: Architectural and Structural Design Collaboration at SOM,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 50 28. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). ‘Diagonal Tower, Yongsan International Business District. <http://www.som.com/projects/diagonal_tower_yongsan_international_business_district> (accessed 15 March 2016). 29. Besserud, Keith., Katz, Neil., Beghini, Alessandro. ‘Integrated Computational Design: National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 34-35 30. Ibid 31. Frazer, John. ‘Parametric Computation: History and Future.’ Architectural Design. Vol 86, 2, pp.21 32. Kestelier, Xavier De. ‘Recent Developments at Foster + Partners' Specialist Modelling Group,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 24
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IMAGE CREDITS 1. Zaha Hadid Architects. ‘City of Dreams Hotel Tower’ Project, 2013. < http://www.zaha-hadid.com/architecture/city-of-dreams-hotel-tower-cotai-macau> (accessed 9 March 2016) 2. Kokkugia website. ‘SWARM-PRINTING.’ <http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/swarm-printing/swarm-printing> (accessed 9 March 2016) 3. University Stuttgart. ‘ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010.’ <http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458> (accessed 12 March 2016) 4. Zaha Hadid Architects. ‘Galaxy Soho’ Project, 2009. <http://www.zaha-hadid.com/architecture/galaxy-soho> (accessed 12 March 2016) 5. Popovska, Dusanka. ‘Integrated Computational Design: National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 35 6. Foster + Partners Website <http://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/national-bank-of-kuwait/Popovska, > 7. Dusanka. ‘Integrated Computational Design: National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 34 8. Designboom. <http://www.designboom.com/weblog/images/images_2/richelle/121SOM/som03.jpg> 9. Besserud, Keith., Katz, Neil., Beghini, Alessandro. ‘Structural Emergence: Architectural and Structural Design Collaboration at SOM,’ Architectural Design. Vol 83, 2, pp. 54 10. Pinterest. <https://www.pinterest.com/pin/167899892328495719/> 11. Structural Emergence: Architectural and Structural Design Collaboration at SOM. pp. 48
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A6.Algorithmic explorations
In the first phase, I did the lofting exercise in GH based on the logic of Rhino. I drawn two free carves in Rhino and design them in the GH. I was only capable to set one slider here, which controls the number of curves’ segments.
Through the study on tutorial videos, I got skills to produce more interesting 3D forms. These Random blocks or segments are stimulation, and it looks like the ‘Water Cube’ in Beijing. Pop 3D and Voronoi3 are major algorithmic tools for this form.
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Then I tried to produce a few complicated from. I found it difficult to control the form by dragging sliders. On my current level I found it was not capable for me to manipulate the whole definition to get desired forms.
Cable-Beam structure is the unique and interesting topic in this studio. I made a sketch model to explore the relationship between structural elements in term of forces. Comparing to the handmade model, the plug-ins of GH like Kangaroo and Karamba are more efficient and economical to do physical and structural analyses.
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part b. criteria Design
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Part b contents B.01 Research Field __44 B.02 Case Study 1.0__50 B.03 Case Study 2.0__55 B.04 Technique: Development __63 B.05 Technique: Prototypes__68 B.06 Technique: Proposal__73 B.07 Learning Objectives and Outcomes__76 B.08 Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches__77
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B1. Research Field
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'Flying robots have different capabilities to established mechanical devices that may disrupt the conditions for how architecture is designed and materialized'. (Kohler 2012)[1]
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building with drones
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[1]http://inhabitat.com/flying-drones-autonomously-build-a-24-foot-rope-bridge-strongenough-for-humans/drone-rope-bridge-by-eth-zurich-2/
he fabrication or production methods always influenced design in the long history. Previously, craftsmanship aggregates design and production into one field that bring them closer. Although craftsmanship no longer dominant the design phase in architecture, design and fabrication still influence and accelerate each other. It is hardly to see such a genius like Antoni Gaudi, who started the parametric design without any precedents and digital tools. The great work behind the amazing organic style were numerous mathematical geometry references and transformations. The emergence of parametric modelling programs provide architects opportunities to design impossible geometries even beyond Gaudi, while the development of digital fabrication assist architects transform digital models to physical structure. Robotic fabrication has been developed for factory automation for years, the most common application could refer to the automobile production line employing industrial robots. It is no doubt that industrial robots are commonly more accurate, flexible, and reliable than human beings in production, they always increase the productivity with reduced operational costs[2] (preface). Industrial robots are architectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; friends that fabricate architectural artefacts quickly and precisely.
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The most common digital fabrication devices today are almost fixed to the ground, for example, robotic arm or CNC-machine because the static environment ensures precision in material manipulation [3]. The precision is hardly to be an advantage of robotics without the static base, the early application of flying vehicles just touch on the transportation towards inaccessible sites. For example, helicopters had been used in bridge construction since 1950s, to transport prefabricated building elements to the site and to string pilot cables between two sides [4]. However, recent developments in sensing, computation and control system began to recovery flying robotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; weakness and accelerate their application in robotic fabrication [5]. The technology development always challenge current design thinking and extend designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision.
Flying robots have different capabilities to established mechanical devices that may disrupt the conditions for how architecture is designed and materialized.[6] One of the world leading team in aerial construction research program was established by Professor Raffaello Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Andrea in the Institute for Dynamic Systems and Control of ETH University. This team collaborated with architects Gramazio & Kohler to create Flight Assembled Architecture, the world first architectural installation assembled by flying robots [7]. This aerial construction was conceived as a 1:100 model of a 600 m high vertical village, and this 6-meter tall tower was assembled by four quadrocopters with 1500 foam bricks [8]. As the early research of Flight Assembled Architecture, this tower does not reveal how creative these robots are because the form had been decided before the aerial construction. Except digital modelling program, a set of programs were developed for each step in construction process. Firstly, the design was completed by the digital model programs. Once the design finished, the visible geometry was transformed to be data that can be understood by computers and flying robots, data could represent all necessary information such as brick location and the order in which parts should be assembled.
[2] FRAC Centre Collection: Vertical Village 1:100 Model
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[3] Rendered image of the Vertical Village
The remarkable advantages of Flight Assembled Architecture, in this case, are the accuracy of elementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location and height flexibility. Firstly, the patterning of bricks was generated by diverse location for each brick, the tiny location change would be complicated or even impossible for manual assembly. However there is no difficulty at all for flying robots to deal with data of slightly changed coordinate. The accuracy can also be found from other fabrication robots like CNC machine and robotic arms fixing to the ground, but they have the limitation in height. Flying robots are capable to assemble building elements in a much higher location. Architects provided the fantasy scenario for this flight assembled building, using flying machine to construct a vertical village for 30000 inhabitants [9]. In the current conditions of technology, it is only seen as paper architecture. A set of supplementary sensing and control systems beyond four quadrocopters contribute to localize working robots in unstructured environ-
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ments [10]. For this 600 m tower, current technology could not ensure the stability of the construction process as same as this 1:100 model assembled in the indoors environment. Firstly, the real building need to consider the connection between each units and how to stabilize the structure for resisting external forces in environments such as wind, earthquake. Then it is only can use GPS to localize working robots outdoors in the current stage however the GPS system cannot provide acceptable accuracy in the real construction until now.
[4] Drone is transporting foam brick
[5] Flying Machineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freeway from drone control system, prevent miscommunication between drones
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B2. Case Study 1.0
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Structure exploration
Freeform surface + Grid
Gridshell
Tunnel
Tensile Membrane
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Selection Criteria
M
y selection criteria will base on the functionality and potentials for aerial robot fabrications.
1. I chose the geometry of the freeform surface with diamond grid. The surface looks dynamic and organic which have the potential to be built in different sites. According to the rendered image, I lofted the diamond frames then extrude lofted surfaces, finally I got a timber waffle structure. This timber waffle is suitable for both indoors and outdoors functions. It can be the ceiling of a large office which provide open space for its dynamic aesthetic. And the timber waffle was designed as an outside pavilion called ‘Metropol Parasol’. 2. The second geometry is the surface with strip patterns. The pattern was applied on the freeform surface, it is easier to assemble comparing the timber waffle structure. I chose this geometry and want to develop further to be structural elements for drone fabrication. The scaffoldings used by ETH tensile bridge are not reasonable to use in the projects for the public. 3. The third one is a grid shell finished by timber. It is supposed to be both structural element and functional space while it can be developed to be frames or scaffoldings for tensile cable structure fabricated by flying robots. The hexagon pattern provides necessary space for drone to fly around. 4. The fourth iteration is a crazy abstract form like the sculpture. Although it looks ridiculous, it’s a rational form from the fixed data and matching methods. It reminds me of designing monumental spaces by related data behind the geometry, it tends to be a social and culture expression by manipulate geometry from data.
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The membrane structure is the one I was interested. The first reason is about construction. Membranes are always prefabricated in the factory and assembled on site. It is exposed to have potentials for faster construction and easy assembly. The second reason would be the capability of dynamic and organic form because it can be tensile that makes it flexible for diverse site conditions. Finally, there are possibilities for drone to transport fixing cables into specific locations because they can fly to somewhere people hard to reach.
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B3. Case Study 2.0
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Aerial Construction
Building structures with flying machines ETH
T
he case study 2.0 is about Aerial Construction which means Building structure with flying machines. The research project was leaded by Prof. Raffaello Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Andrea of ETH Zurich University, they have completed the rope bridge with flying machines. It demonstrates small flying machines are capable of realizing load bearing structures at full-scale. This project requires the development of nonstandard material systems, digital design and construction processes, then with controlling strategies study on the relationship between digital design and fabrication process [11]. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the potential for me to study and understand how to develop parametric design and realize the fabrication by the aid of algorithm design programs. Flying machines could reach any point somewhere human hard to reach, they can fly in or around existing objects. However, they have constraints of limited payload, battery and accuracy. This tensile structure was constructed in indoor static environment which increase the accuracy as much as possible, while it displayed its capabilities to localize and fix anchor points on scaffoldings.
[6]Full scale tensile bridge with 7.4m span between scaffoldings
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[7] Motorized spool and plastic tube are equipped to dispense ropes
The spanning of the bridge is 7.4 m between two scaffoldings while a total rope length about 120 m was used composing links, knots and braid [12]. Ropes are dispensed by a motorized spool equipped on quadrocopters that could control the tension acting on the rope during deployment, as the image shows, and a plastic tube guide the rope to the release point located between two propellers.
Material performance Ropes are made out of Dyneema with 3-4 diameters, the weight-to-strength ratio is 8-15 times lower than that of steel [13]. They are supposed to be low stretch, and effective water, chemical and UV-resistance.
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1. Fabrication start with anchor points on both scaffoldings, three drones work together for three anchor points.
2. Drones fly around the scaffolding to generate nodes like the photo shown above. Then three primary links were built, two on the top as hand strap, the botton support for walking. The colour balls show shape change of ropes, less tend to green and more tend to red. At this phase, colour averagely change means only gravity applied on ropes.
3. This tensile structure change its shape with every newly built interacting link. The link beween primary ropes reinforce the botton rope that is clear shown through the colour balls. Two drones are flying around the bottom rope to brace it, the braiding pattern is shown on the left. It is the process must be done by two or more drones work together.
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4. There are total nine segments on the bottom rope, four with braidings. The connection ropes reinforce the bottom rope that support people to walk. It is much clear that, as a tensile strucure, this bridge change its shape on each node.
5. There are two more ropes between two scaffoldings in addition to three primary links. They are prepared to link extra ropes on bottom rope.
6. Two new links joined the central bottom rope. It stablize the structure when live loads on the top, the central link will remain its position in the middle instead of moving horizontally.
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Technique: Grasshopper
I input three primary links (shortest straight line) into Grasshopper, and add links between nodes by the squence of construction process. All steps are simulated by Kangaroo engine to get the near-real curve shape. Each link will cause the bridge change its shape slightly.
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Kangaroo's elastic behaviour follows Hooke's law which states: displacements or size of the deformation of a body is directly proportional to the deforming force or load. In accordance with Hooke's law, the change in length of the rope is:
x=F/k
Thus I use distance between the original and simulated cables to indentify load and force distributions on the primary rope.
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B4. Technique: Development
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Selection Criteria With the further study and research on aerial construction, I was more interested in selecting iterations which can be fabricated with current drone technology. Flying machine have the shortage of low payload, thus most of materials are limited. Following the approach of the tensile bridge of ETH, our group plan to have similar elements and materials to construct a bridge structure. This structure was composed by structural elements (steel frame) and multifunctional elements (tensile rope or cable). Our project is different with ETH tensile bridge as the structural element is a part of design instead of normal scaffolding. The friction force between rope and steel is small which cannot hold rope in a certain area, thus a set of grooves was added to the design. This geometry with triangle openings is the favourite, triangular as the simplest shape to form 3D space create dynamic geometry transitions on the surface. Also each face of this geometry looks like the harp, the further study it provide potentials for users not only observe chords but intersect with it.
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B5. Technique: Prototypes
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The test with prototypes followed the design potentials from previous research. The tensile structure is necessary to have rigid structural element such as scaffolding or loading bearing column. Flying machines have potential to fabricate on the existing structure by flying in or around it. The structural element is primary, the first method that I personalize the structure is soldering. Then I got the other option like cable tie. The process of soldering cost me much time, it reminds me the same issue for working on site. The angel of each steel wire are not perfect like we designed, the better solution is to fabricate the material with joint details. In other perspective, the design of the structural was over complicated. There are many different nodes and angles need to consider. We will develop a simple framework to solve this issue.
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In the second step, I explored how drone could dispense and fasten ropes on the frame. I followed approaches introduced in the ETH tensile bridge project. I test the nodes and braids by hand. Ropes are not good at working with steel surface, all nodes can slide along the metal surface.
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The other prototype test with a simple frame by timber. Firstly, a few columns and beams are placed as the primary structure. Each structural elements are equally divided to provide the potential for parametric design. The links between three beams brace each other. The further development would focus on the material of chord to provide sound within this bridge.
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B6. B.6Technique: TECHNIQUE:Proposal PROPOSAL
1.
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B6. Technique: Proposal B.6 TECHNIQUE:PROPOSAL- CHORD
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DESIGN CONCEPT To build an interactive acoustic bridge which allows people to play a music within the sound of nature.
SITE SELECTION The bridge is built across the creek. Our selected location is considered as quiet and only sound of water and birds can be heard. However the nice area does not have any reason for people to stay and have a listen to the sound of nature, where a few hundred meters away the only sound left is the noise from vehicles.
CLIENT
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The bridge draws attention from pedestrians who would take a walk around the area and invite them to stay for a longer time. By providing a piece
of huge musical instrument, people would be more sensitive to the surrounding sound. The chord bridge not only functions as a recreational piece of infrastructure, but also builds intimacy between pedestrians and the natural reserve area. The anticipated result is a splendid piece of music composed by human and the nature.
MATERIAL SELECTION Bamboo will be used for piers and holders as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more environmental friendly. For chords, Nylon strings are preferred, because they produce a clear sound and they have a relatively low risk from hurting users. A semi-transparent pathway is further added to the design, which allows people to walk on, so that they can see the creek running underneath the bridge while listening to the sound of it. But a drawback here would be the complicated replacement of chords .
DRO
Drones the string twine the drones ar is becaus can be i in diffe of each fundamen work as a instead
D BRIDGE
ONE TECHNOLOGY
can be used when building gs. They can carry chords and em onto the joint. The reason re preferred than human labors se a precise location and force input as a data, which results erent tightness and stiffness chord, which is ntal for our bridge to a rational instrument of a noise-maker.
1.
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B7. Learning objectives and outcomes In the study of part B, I was more confident about grasshopper. I realized the data structure is the base of geometry in grasshopper, it is a good idea to sort the data structure from the beginning of grasshopper definitions because it would be complicated to pick data issues out from the later complex definition. There are many handy plug-ins for GH to use, such as lunchbox and Kangaroo, the open source program provide much potentials for people to develop. This plug-in is not only a digital design program to use, but a platform to share ideas and knowledges by people from multi disciplines. I have toughed some basic components from the Kangaroo, I found it not only a program to analysis physics, but capable for form finding, physical properties link the structure and design together. In the further study on Part C, I will consider how to represent our design brief by parametric approach in GH. For example, how the geometry should change to create different sound experience. Through the aid of parametric design program, I do not need to guess the outcome by personal intuitions and experiences any more, all effect and outcome could be simulated by real existing data which is pretty awesome.
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B8.Algorithmic explorations
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REFERENCES 1. Kohler, M 2012, ‘Aerial Architecture’, LOG, no.25, pp. 23-30 2. Reinhardt, D., Saunders, R., & Burry, J. (2016). Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art and Design 2016, pp. ix. 3. Reinhardt, D., Saunders, R., & Burry, J. (2016). Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art and Design 2016, pp. 36 4. Mirgan, A, Gramazio, F, Kohler, M, Augugliaro, F, D’ Andrea, R 2013, ‘Architectural fabrication of tensile structures with flying machines’, in Bartolo, H et al. (eds), Green Design, Materials and Manufacturing process, CRC Press, Boca Raton FL, pp. 513-518 5. Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art and Design 2016, pp. 36 6. Aerial Architecture, pp. 23-30 7. ETH University Zurich Website. ‘Flying Machine Enabled Construction’ < http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/research-dandrea/research-projects/archive/flying-machine-enabled-construction. html > (accessed 27 April 2016) 8. Ibid 9. FRAC Centre Website. ‘Gramazio & Kohler et Raffaello D'Andrea’ < http://www.frac-centre.fr/projets-64.html?authID=304&ensembleID=1082 > (accessed 27 April 2016) 10. Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art and Design 2016, pp. 36 11. ETH University Zurich Website. ‘Aerial Construction: Building structures with flying machines’ < http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/research-dandrea/research-projects/aerial-construction.html> (accessed 27 April 2016) 12. Ibid 13. Robotic Fabrication in Architecture, Art and Design 2016, pp. 43
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IMAGE CREDITS 1. The drone used for build tensile bridge. <http://inhabitat.com/flying-drones-autonomously-build-a-24-foot-rope-bridge-strong-enough-for-humans/ drone-rope-bridge-by-eth-zurich-2/> (accessed 27 April 2016) 2. FRAC Centre Collection: Vertical Village 1:100 Model <http://www.frac-centre.fr/projets-64.html?authID=304&ensembleID=1082> (accessed 27 April 2016) 3. Rendered image of the Vertical Village <https://www.naibooksellers.nl/architecture/design-methods/flight-assembled-architecture.html?___ store=english&___from_store=default> (accessed 27 April 2016) 4. Drone is transporting foam brick <http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/research-dandrea/research-projects/archive/flying-machine-enabled-construction. html> (accessed 27 April 2016) 5. Flying Machineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freeway from drone control system, prevent miscommunication between drones <http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/research-dandrea/research-projects/archive/flying-machine-enabled-construction. html> (accessed 27 April 2016) 6. Flying Machineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freeway from drone control system, prevent miscommunication between drones < http://www.idsc.ethz.ch/research-dandrea/research-projects/aerial-construction.html> (accessed 27 April 2016) 7. Motorized spool and plastic tube are equipped to dispense ropes <http://inhabitat.com/flying-drones-autonomously-build-a-24-foot-rope-bridge-strong-enough-for-humans/ drone-rope-bridge-by-eth-zurich-2/> (accessed 27 April 2016)
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part C. Detailed Design
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Part c contents C.01 Design Concept __77 C.02 Tectonic Elements & Prototypes__89 C.03 Final Detail Model__101 C.04 Learning Objectives and Outcomes__111
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C1. Design Concept
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It is necessary to review our design brief before we start finalizing all key decisions. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to use some site analysis diagrams to clarify and explain our design briefs. We choose the site just next to Merri Creek, the Trail along Merri Creek is a designated natural escape away from chaos of metropolitan atmosphere, however, the busy traffic on the adjacent main road disturbing quiet and peace in this particular area. According to the diagrams, we recorded sounds from different locations around our site then found that the closer to the main street, the more irregular noise get involved. Furthermore, we find trees and shrubs are effective barriers to break the sound transmission. The other consideration is also related to the experience in this green area. According to our analysis on the circulation, there is no bridge connection only for pedestrians and cyclists in this area which means local dwellers living on the north are enforced to go across the main street then arrive the Merri Creek Trail. It is terrible experience for these who want to escape the busy work and relax under the natural environment because they have to suffer from traffic rolling on the main street.
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Therefore, we decided the target area is the part over the Merri Creek that also enclosed by wild plants. By taking the advantages of this natural area, we want to highlight: “The contrast between the main traffic bridge and our bridge in terms of function, material, and form” “A space enrich natural experience by manipulating sensory factors like visual and acoustic information” “The fabrication capabilities of drones in the fast and efficient approaches as well as the abilities of small flying machines finish a structure without conventional equipment and special vehicle. Try to maintain untreated natural environment”
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According to our design brief, we decided on selection criteria to assess forms. Firstly, the form itself is organic and abstract because it is more related to the natural characteristics. In the perspective of appearance, this bridge is exposed to visitors as a dynamic and abstract form from inside or outside, this form is more adaptive in this designated natural area. Otherwise, in the perspective of visual transparency and acoustic transmissibility, this structure is also remarkable because the light structure allow both view and sound going through. Inside the space, pedestrians cross the creek with natural sound from flowing water, birds, and weaving leafs as well as watching exact same thing like they hear. Outside the space, this bridge is not so blocky that will not block all view through the creek. In a distance away from this bridge, it just looks like the abstract cloud or shadow across over the creek rather than an artefact bring disharmony into the natural environment.
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Radius
Circle
Rotate
Curve Loft Mesh Refine mesh
Kangaroo
Kangaroo Engine
Springs From Mesh
Braced Grid 1-D LunchBox
Withdraw structural GRIDS from transformed TOWER form
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[1] Merri Creek: Typical Creek Profile
Tree Profile:
Growth Rate: Moderate Habit: Rounded to spreading Height: 12 - 30m Width: 10 - 10m Lifespan: Long
Growth Rate: Moderate Habit: Boardly conical to rounded Height: 6 - 15m Width: 6 - 10m Lifespan: Long
Site Plant Map
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To push our brief to a limit, that enrich natural experience as much as possible, we decided to employ wild trees as the primary structural elements. We tried to avoid using artificial structural elements like steel products because they will disturb the natural context then design briefs. The whole structure will be fixed on trees like the hammock yet in a large scale. It should be looking as a floating structure between trees then fully blend into the context. As a part of this bridge, trees play the important role. It is necessary for us to know trees and other plants on site before we place a bridge there. According to the ‘Typical Creek Profile’ from ‘Merri Creek Aquatic and SemiAquatic Planting Guide’, we identified two spices of large tree on site which could grow up to 30 meters. The vegetation plan was generated to clarify the locations of selected trees and shrubs as well as our project location because it was influenced by a few capable trees as scaffoldings. We refer to one of ETH drone fabrication project, the tensile bridge, to explore how to make knots on trees.
Case study of Part B: Tensile Bridge, ETH Drone Research Project. Reverse Engineering Diagrams
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C2. Tectonic Elements & Prototypes
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In the current application, flying machines like drones are capable to fabricate cable-beam structure as drone can be equipped with the motorized spool to release tensile materials, but a rigid frame was also required to keep the geometry and pattern of the bridge. Firstly, we divided this structure into two parts, rigid frame and tensile connections. The frame was withdrawn from the border of this geometry. We intend to keep the abstract and dynamic form as much as possible thus it is also necessary to fix each side in a certain angle within the whole frame. Therefore, we customized each three-way junctions and 3D print them. The total six junctions hold each side and enable the geometry be as exact same as we want.
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Tectonic Element: Three-Way Junction
From individual poles to an accurate framework
Elements used in model making: -Timber Stick: measured and cut according to digital design -Three-way Junction: fabricated by three-D printing then classified according to digital design
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Kangaroo Exploration: Stiffness Then we considered and tested materials for tensile structure in two approaches. First of all, we start with Kangaroo simulation for four potential tensile materials, these of Cotton Thread, Nylon String, Metal Wire and Bronze Wire. We found the simulation of Kangaroo Physics Engine is based on three major inputs of REST LENGTH, GRAVITY, and STIFFNESS. We tried to find out how the stiffness input actually works because it would be the major variation between different materials. According to the Daniel Pikerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answers in Grasshopper website Discussion Board, the definition of stiffness in Grasshopper is based on the formula: Stiffness=
ExA L
E: Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modulus (Pa) A: Cross-section area (m2) L: Length (m)
The length for connections are diverse, it will influence the STIFFNESS
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Kangaroo Simulation: Tensile Materials
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -5000 N Stiffness (EA/L): 2692
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -300 N Stiffness (EA/L): 247
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 1267
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 763
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -5000 N Stiffness (EA/L): 2256
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -300 N Stiffness (EA/L): 207
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 1062
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 639
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -5000 N Stiffness (EA/L): 1820
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -300 N Stiffness (EA/L): 167
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 856
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 516
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -5000 N Stiffness (EA/L): 1384
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -300 N Stiffness (EA/L): 127
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 651
Rest Length: 0.01 Gravity: -500 N Stiffness (EA/L): 392
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The importance of the digital physics simulation is to test the performance of different materials and preview them before physical model. However, we found it pretty diverse between our digital simulation and physical test. Firstly, on the side of our Kangaroo simulation, the input information are limited because we only calculate the stiffness and weight as different properties of material. The problem is we cannot collect accurate information for the material we particularly use, for example, we only found the young's modulus for bronze raw material instead of bronze guitar string, and most of them are alloy or compound. Otherwise, Kangaroo based on basic physical rules and settings, it is a challenge for us to represent the realistic material performance as we found in prototype experiments. I believe it remains potential for me to develop my parametric design skills further in the future. Finally we decided to use Nylon string because of its potential advantages fit this project. The design brief highlight the importance of natural environment and visual experience through the bridge which means the minimum amount use of artificial elements in the bridge and organise them in a harmony way. Nylon String has translucent colour and higher strength-to-weight ratio, in other words, this material would be strong enough with a light-weight appearance. The other expectation for the Nylon String is to enrich sound experience when visitors try to interact with this live music instrument. Actually, the Nylon String we used is just taken from Folk Guitar String. But we are not expecting users to make comfortable rhythm by the Nylon String because we want them focus on the surrounding environment instead of a large-scale music instrument. We believed the disappointment received from this fake music instrument motivate people move their interests in the environment around them then enrich the experience along Merri Creek Trail.
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Prototypes: Material Test
Cotton Thread
Nylon String
Metal Wire
Bronze Wire
Nylon String is selected as the best tensile material in making model
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Fabrication Details: Slots on Bamboo Pole
It is time to consider how to fix tensile structure into three Bamboo Poles. We have to consider the accuracy which drone could dispense Nylon String in the designated location. It would be impossible to use sophisticated fixing method on each joints regarding of the poor drone flying accuracy, therefore we tried to cut slots on the Bamboo Pole where Nylon String can be fixed. In our first attempt, slots have same width and it is larger than the diameter of Nylon String. However, we found it is difficult to stop sliding of strings because there is only a small friction applied on the bottom of Nylon Strings. Then we improve the shape of slots to increase the friction between strings and poles. The width on the top is as same as our first prototype but it gradually decrease towards zero. It ensures Nylon String squizzes into each slot that effectively increase the friction. The LIVE LOADs also contribute to fix tensile structure because they will apply on strings in the direction squizzing into slot, also means the process of occupancy is also supposed to be a continuous process of fabrication.
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Fabrication Details: Slots on Bamboo Pole
Rigid structure was prepared to be braced by tensile structure
Two types of slots, the botton pole increases friction and prevent sliding of Nylon Strings
Live loads apply on strings in the direction sequzzing into slot, fixing is supposed to be a continous process
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Pole
Final Pattern Weave List PLine Continuous string from start to end (zigzag)
Curve DivideCurve Points Line A loop pass through three points (loop)
Move
Points Target points drone fly towards, in a sequence Flying Path
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Weave List PLine
Flying Path Simulation
offset away from anchor: 0 m offset away from anchor: negative speed: 0.05 m/s
offset away from anchor: 1 m speed: 0.5 m/s
offset away from anchor: 0 m speed: 0.05 m/s
offset away from anchor: 2 m speed: 0.05 m/s
offset away from anchor: 1 m speed: 0.15 m/s
offset away from anchor: 4 m speed: 0.5 m/s
We changed the initial pattern of tensile structure when we considered how to dispense Nylon Strings from drones. In the previous pattern, all connections between poles are single segments do not link each other. However, it would not be an efficient fabrication approach because drones will only carry a small spool of Nylon Strings when they make this little loop. They do not have any equipment to cut the string then go to next loop. Zigzag pattern will increase the efficiency of flying machines since the tensile structure is a continuous whole, drones can carry a large spool of Nylon Strings then dispense them from the start to end. Otherwise, we found the improved slot have friction to stop the sliding of Nylon String in our prototype experiments. We manipulate the data tree with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Weaveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; component to organise a workable and efficient flying path. Although the flying path is designed to have same Zigzag pattern as the Nylon Strings, the real flying path need to be offset away from physical structure to avoid colliding. We not only change distances fly path away from physical structure, but test different speeds of drones. As drones need to change direction when they fly around framework, speed will influence their inertia, also means the difficulty for drones to change direction.
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C3. Final detail Model
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Site Model: From digital model to fabrication
The site model is vital for our design because the design briefs are highly related with the environmental context. We employ Laser Cutting to ensure the site model is accurate and clean. Firstly, we made a digital topography model according to the contour map derived from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Land VICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; website. Then we map plants, particularly trees and shrubs, by Google Earth and site observation. Then we made relative layers in Rhino in a scale of 1:50 according to the height difference. Each layer was numbered in an order of altitude. The other component for site model is a transparent box, it is used to fix Nylon Strings on each side because trees do not have structural capability in our 1:50 physical model. This box not only brace the bridge structure, but suggest the coordinates when drones fly away from trees.
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2
1
3
4
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Fabrication Details: Primary structrual framework
In the actual size fabrication, we use Bamboo as the material of structural framework. Bamboo have natural textures and form which also emphasis our brief of natural experience. But we use 4mm timber stick to represent bamboo in our model because there is no bamboo in suitable size for a 1:50 scale model. We customize each connections and 3D print these three-way junctions. The accurate length and angle for each pole element ensure the geometry of structural framework is as exact as what we want.
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Fabrication Details: Tensile structure
We divide each pole into 13 parts by 12 slots half-cut on it. Then a few fixing methods are tested to combine two elements together. The physical model was fabricated by hand instead of drones, but we considered to mimic behaviours of drones when we made it. We start with a knot at the first slot then wrap around the framework in a zigzag pattern as same as that in digital simulation. This bridge is attached with selected trees, then to be floating like a hammock. In the model assembly process, we realized the potential damage to trees if we place our actual size bridge on site. Therefore, we suppose this project as a temporary structure along Merri Creek. The drone technology increase the efficiency of fabrication that possibly recycle the bridge structure and reassembly it in a similar site.
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Final Detail Model
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Final Detail Model
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Final Detail Model
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Final Rendered Image
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C4. Learning objectives and outcomes
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Objective 1. “Interrogate a brief” under the context of digital technologies The digital technologies will improve the efficiency both in design and fabrication process but I believe the application area is depend on the site context. For example, our design brief focus on the natural environment and experience, we considered to use drone technology for fabrication to minimize the influence of construction work disturbing the natural environment on the site. Objective 2. Developing “an ability to generate a variety of design possibilities for a given situation” We use algorithmic design and parametric modelling to explore the possibilities regarding our design brief. In the Part B of this journal, we produced a matrix of iterations and rational evaluate them in the direction of design. In this studio, design is not limited in terms of form and materiality, we also need to consider the flying path which ensure drones could fabricate the real size project in the future. I used algorithmic programs to evaluate and analysis the flying path showing in my Part C. Objective 3. Developing “skills in various threedimensional media” The study in this studio underpin my understandings in how technology affect the design process. I developed the understanding in ‘computerization’ and ‘computation’ which are playing different roles in design process. The program I used before like AutoCad is a computerization tool only used for drawing and documenting in design process. It increase the efficiency of drafting but hardly influence design for a project. On the other hand, this studio requires us to develop the abilities in computation program like Grasshopper. It’s the beginning for me to consider how to use the evaluation functions, then generate a variety of design possibilities. The digital program are no long modelling or drafting tools for me but as evaluating or analysing platforms. Objective 4. Developing “an understanding of relationships between architecture and air” The major property of air is invisible but it has physical characters. Our design proposal highlight the experience in natural environment thus we tried to achieve the visual transparency but also considered the influence of environmental factors like winds, in the design of structural elements.
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Objective 5. Developing “the ability to make a case for proposals” The main technology we learned to use is “fabrication by flying machines.” In the current status of drone technology, the accuracy is limited by two meters in the outdoor environment. We consider this issue and tried to address it in our design, like the slots on three poles, it is much easier for drones to dispense strings into a pocket and stop its movement. Also we forward future developments that could influence our project. For example, the development of 3D Scan technology will improve the efficiency in modelling the environment. There will be no need for us to model the plants according to site observation and complex topological analysis. Drones equipped with advanced sensors could generate flying path and finish up the fabrication by swarm behaviours. Objective 6. Develop capabilities for conceptual, technical and design analyses of contemporary architectural projects We focus on Grasshopper and Kangaroo Physics simulation this semester, they provide the technical support for us to evaluate forms and structures. And I also explored how Kangaroo change geometry refer to realistic inputs from material’s information. We compared results of physic simulation and physical prototype experiments, the differences between them inform me to develop computational skills further to produce reasonable analysis outcomes in the future. Objective 7. Develop understandings of computational geometry, data structures and types of programming The data structure behind the preview of Rhino is the core in computational design. The definition will always reflect on the geometry therefore it is necessary to have a clear data structure from the beginning to the end. Objective 8. Begin developing a personalised repertoire of computational techniques regarding its pros, cons, and area of application. I believe parametric design would be the main stream in the future but it cannot dominate the architectural industry at present because it is not fully capable to finish all phases in architectural design. I prefer to use it as a handy tool to produce iterations and possibilities in the design process, and it is also useful to do structural optimization. We actually take advantages of simulation capabilities from computers, but it currently cannot replace the intuition and feeling of architects.
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REFERENCES 1. B. Bainbridge, Merri Creek Aquatic and Semi-Aquatic Planting Guide, 1999. Moreland City Council.
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Appendix-Drone fabrication animation
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