StudioAIRABPL 30048

Yee Lun Chan 7232562016 Semester 1Tutor: CanHui Chen

I am Tiffany Chan. I am currently in my third year of the Bachelor of Environments and majoring in Architecture. As a transfer student from business major, I am still not so familiar with digital design softwares. I have always loved drawing and designing. However, I had never planned to study architecture until recent years. My interest in the field of Architecture developed from my previous art history class which I started to learn about some Greek and Roman architectures. I found that architecture is more than art, it can relate to culture, society, technology and everything. My curiosity and appreciation towards architecture has then lead me to begin this journey. Although I am more interested in the traditional design process, I am excited to explore digital design and fabrication. I hope this studio can enrich my knowledge towards parametric design.

ABOUT ME

DESIGNFUTURING

A1.

Precedent #1Bloom Architects: DO|SU Studio Location: Materials&Application Gallery, Los Angeles, California, United States Completion Date: November 19, 2011

In my view, instead of a real form, Bloom, should be perceive as an experimental model which explore this new technique. Exploration of material behavior helps expand future architectural possibilities. The thought of seeking responsive element to interact with climatic influences should be appreciated. I believe this project is influential, this metal can integrate with the ventilation system and provide the need for heating and cooling in an energy efficient way. I hope others can adapt this technique in their future project to achieve a sustainable design.

Design tends to take advantage of natural resources in these days. Even though passive design is not something new in this field, an innovative weather responsive metal makes this project interesting. Bloom is formed with thermobimetal which allows air to drive out responsively with the weather [1]. In other words, the material is an interacted system that is able to perform all the role of sensing, operating and reacting [3]. The concept for this is actually simple to understand under the principle of thermal expansion. The metal panels that are facing out is designed to receive the most of sunlight with curing function while the opposite size provides shading effect [3]. Metal sheet bends to allow hot air flows out when the temperature get high and they flatten out to form an enclosed place to keep warm air stay when temperature drops [3].

[1] Anderson, Lamar, “Biologist-Turned-Architect Invents “Breathing” Metal Building Skin”, Architizer, 2012 [3] Furuto, Alison, “Bloom / DO|SU Studio Architecture”, ArchDaily, 2012

Precedent #2Bio Intelligent Quotient HouseArchitects: SplitterwerkLocation: Hamburg, GermanyProject year: 2013

DESIGNFUTURING

A1.

I believe that this material will become more common in the future. Not only in the architecture field, however, its flexibility should allow it to combine with other system or material and be useful for other projects as well. This project house is built and I believe it is revolutionary because it is the first building in the world that is powered by algae. Architectural achievements should not limit to aesthetic prospect. The theory engaged in this project rather than symbolizing todays architecture world, it managed to solve the real environmental issue should continue being appreciated.

Resources in the world is limited thus a new way of living is urged to change our current living pattern. The façade of the BIQ project is installed with glass panels holding micro-algae farms which produce biomass which are used to turn into renewable energy [7]. Heat generated from daylight is collected and stored to supply for space and water heating [10]. Also, the algae façade provides perfect insulation for the building. The adaptive plants grow more and faster when sunshine get intense, hence allowing better shading in hot weather [10].

[7] Rackard, Nicky, “World’s First Algae Bioreactor Facade Nears Completion”, ArchDaily, 2013 [10] “World’s First Algae Powered Building By Splitterwerk”, designboom | architecture & design magazine, 2013

DESIGNCOMPUTATION

A2 .

Part to WholeArchitects: HG-A | LIVE COMPONENTS Location: National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul , South KoreaProject Year: 2014

The project takes the idea that every objects is composed with numerous units. From “part to whole” means forming the space by organizing small modules, the basic building block, to form a bigger space [6]. At first glance, I feel the structure is complex because of the curvy edges composed with a stack of wooden modules with several layers. In fact, with digital computing, the design of this structure is simpler than how it looks. The whole volume begins with a cube with circles following different curves which dig through the inner capacity to form the void areas[6].

Digital computing also contributes to the precise calculation of mass. The structure is achieved by composing 50:50 proportion of voids and solids [6]. Besides, the properties of material have taken into consideration during the design process which enhance design flexibility. The construction make use of the strength of wood to stabilize the structure; and with the variation of degrees in piling those wooden blocks create the “plaid” pattern. In this project, digital computing may have limit human creativity in a certain way but it has maximized available space within the design meanwhile minimized waste of materials as well.

[6] “Part To Whole / HG-A | LIVE COMPONENTS”, ArchDaily, 2014

Precedent #1

Precedent #2

Silk PavilionArchitects: MIT Media LabLocation: MIT Media LabProject Year: 2013

Perhaps the most interesting part of the Silk Pavilion project is the innovative technique being used. The pavilion is not purely computational, it combines the digital form finding method with a mix use of robotic and biological fabrication [9]. Computing has re-define the practice in design practice: They first research the habitual nature of silkworms in order to understand the thread properties produced from silkworms. And with the information, the curvature of the design is obtained based on the performance of how a single continuous thread react [2]. I would say computing has affect the design greatly in this case. Without the digital design technique, it would be hard to determine the form with only knowing the data of the quality of thread. Robot also plays an important role in the fabrication process. Robot first started a set of guide thread with pattern that is constructed over an aluminum frame as a foundation which allows silkworms to follow to create the sphere structure [2].

[2] Flaherty, Joseph, “A Mind-Blowing Dome Made By 6,500 Computer-Guided Silkworms”, WIRED, 2013 [9] Stott, Rory, “Silk Pavilion / MIT Media Lab”, ArchDaily, 2013

DESIGNCOMPUTATION

A2 .

This project suggests the interlocking relationship of material, curvature and structure in digital computing is irreplaceable. Digital fabrication can often easily be reproduced which can be seen as an advantage, however, when everything is unify, it can lose one’s characteristic. I think what make the Silk Pavilion special is that with the integration of biological fabrication, unpredictable textures and features can make the structure unique.

COMPUTATION/GENERATION

A3 .

Vaulted WillowArchitects: MARC FORNES & THEVERYMANYLocation: Borden Park, Edmonton, Canada Year: 2014

The significance of digital computing is shown in the project of the Vaulted Willow.The Valuted Willow combines structure, skin as well as ornamentation into one system, which also means that the material properties must need to be fully taken into account during design process [8]. I believe the design idea is derived from the hanging chain model which used the concept of spring system, but digitally, to its structural form-finding process which results to this parabolic structure. It seems to me that without the aid of digital computation, this complex form would be challenging to create by using only traditional method. Yet, the computation solves the complex problems with algorithm and allows designers to understand the design more deeply and the whole process turns out to be much easier. The project in order to maintain lightweight, used thin aluminum sheets for the overall structure and overlay strips at the edge which allows better connectivity for transmission of additional load [11].

[8] Rosenfield, Karissa, “Marc Fornes / THEVERYMANY Constructs Self-Supported “Vaulted Willow” With Ultra-Thin Aluminum Shells”, ArchDaily, 2015 [11] “11 Edmonton”, MARC FORNES & THEVERYMANY™, 2011

Precedent #1

Computation helps evaluate each strips for fabrication to have a better management in material and thus reduce wastage and help save material cost. Also the precise information like axis of bending, angle measurements and color data for each stripe allows an accurate and more efficient building process [11].

COMPUTATION/GENERATION

A3 .

Precedent #2

Subdivided Columns - A New OrderArchitects: Michael hansmeyerYear: 2010

[4] Hansmeyer, Michael, “Computational Architecture: Subdivided Columns”, Michael-hansmeyer.com, 2016[5] “Michael Hansmeyer: Ornamented Columns”, designboom | architecture & design magazine, 2011

Perhaps these beautiful columns should be perceived as revolutionary artworks, they redefine the typical way of thinking and express an innovative design thinking. Hansmeyer begins with subdividing the local parameters of the topography and topology of a doric column [5]. Through the process, each single components revealed and gives a result that is not only complex but also confusingly beautiful [4]. Although under the same of rules, each column is different to one another due to the variation in shifting of points. It is surprisingly for me to notice that such a complex in form of columns can be generated by using simple subdivision algorithmic script. However, ‘simple’ here can only applies to digital computation. This is because this process would be impossible and can take endless time for humans to calculate.The complicated form of columns is unlikely can be composite by humans simply with our aesthetic sense in the first place. In this instance, computation save times to create a great variety of design probabilities and flexibilities which is difficult for human to evaluate.

I believe Hansmeyer didn’t know how those columns would exactly look like before the result generates. The shortcoming of design generates by computation is that the outcome can be unpredictable. When numerous data is being analyzed with various factors engaged in the design process, it can be hard for humans to assume and know the result beforehand. However, I guess this is also what makes computation design interesting.

I develop a better understanding about digital design through part a. By researching those precedents, I realized the significance of curvature, material and structure under the design process in computation design. Computation has change todays design practice; it allows us to reach out the boundary that we used to unable to manage with only traditional method. Simulation of material properties is one particular feature of digital design that show us the effectiveness of computation to help human to solve complex problems. Overall, computation open up a lot of opportunities and it requires further exploration.

From the precedents, we can able to see computation helps us to step towards a more sustainable life. My intended design approach is also to focus on the topic of sustainability and protecting the animals which inhabit at the site. The design aims to raise the awareness of environmental protection and hence providing a better living for the future.

A4. Conclusion

A5. Learning outcomes

Without knowing anything about parametric design, and have zero background in “grasshopper”, I feel nervous with this studio at the beginning. The resources that were provided in the last three weeks provide me a clearer understanding about the concept of computation design. And now I believe I am able to distinguish some similar terms like computation and computerization, composition and generation etc. Through following the online videos, it allowed me to get a touch on grasshopper. I am excited to see how I can apply what I learnt in the videos in the project.

[1] Anderson, Lamar, “Biologist-Turned-Architect Invents “Breathing” Metal Building Skin”, Architizer, 2012 <http://architizer.com/blog/doris-kim-sung-thermo-bimetal/>

[2] Flaherty, Joseph, “A Mind-Blowing Dome Made By 6,500 Computer-Guided Silkworms”, WIRED, 2013 <http://www.wired.com/2013/07/your-next-3-d-printer-might-be-filled-with-worms/>

[3] Furuto, Alison, “Bloom / DO|SU Studio Architecture”, ArchDaily, 2012 <http://www.archdaily.com/215280/bloom-dosu-studio-architecture/>

[4] Hansmeyer, Michael, “Computational Architecture: Subdivided Columns”, Michael-hansmeyer.com, 2016 <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info.html?screenSize=1&color=1#undefined>

[5] “Michael Hansmeyer: Ornamented Columns”, designboom | architecture & design magazine, 2011 <http://www.designboom.com/architecture/michael-hansmeyer-ornamented-columns/>

[6] “Part To Whole / HG-A | LIVE COMPONENTS”, ArchDaily, 2014 <http://www.archdaily.com/544023/part-to-whole-hg-a-live-components>

[7] Rackard, Nicky, “World’s First Algae Bioreactor Facade Nears Completion”, ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/339451/worlds-first-algae-bioreactor-facade-nears-completion

[8] Rosenfield, Karissa, “Marc Fornes / THEVERYMANY Constructs Self-Supported “Vaulted Willow” With Ultra-Thin Aluminum Shells”, ArchDaily, 2015 <http://www.archdaily.com/596033/marc-fornes-theverymany-constructs-self-supported-vaulted-willow-with-ultra-thin-aluminum-shells>

[9] Stott, Rory, “Silk Pavilion / MIT Media Lab”, ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/384271/silk-pavilion-mit-media-lab>

[10] “World’s First Algae Powered Building By Splitterwerk”, designboom | architecture & design magazine, 2013 <http://www.designboom.com/art/worlds-first-algae-powered-building-by-splitterwek/>

[11] “11 Edmonton”, MARC FORNES & THEVERYMANY™, 2011 <http://theverymany.com/public-art/11-edmonton/>

References

A6. Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches

A6. Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches

Tessellation is commonly being used in the area of pattern creation in terms of architectural use. It is particularly rich in mathematics and is highly related to geometry. A tessellation is created with the arrangement of shape by repeating and fit tightly with no overlaps and leaving any gaps; but with aesthetic understanding, tessellation can turns into an art form with beautiful patterns.

RESEARCH FIELD

B1 .

Tessellation is able to reinterpret a smooth surface by simply using sheet materials. In order words, it seek a balance between the geometry and material performance. With the use of computational software, it is in particular beneficial when handling complex forms as it produces precision of data in surface definition which brought together the architecture itself with the materials; while leaving more controls for designers to explore how tessellation manipulate in producing such forms.

Volta Dom has reference to the historic structural component, the vault, to create the space with an arched ceiling [8]. The project is generated with a planar surface with packed patterns and by inputting data of applied force to create those arches [6]. In this way, the beautiful patterns form with the technique under tessellation has no change in their interlocking arrangement, and are able to apply not only to a flat plane but they are able to transform into a three dimensional space. The curvy panels are divided into smaller developable strips and installed together.

Volta DomArchitects: Skylar Tibbit

In this project, we are able to see the technique of tessellation doesn’t only apply in ornamental purpose, but it can offer functions like working as structural element. Volta Dom as a self-supporting structure has taken the advantage with the capacity of material performance to maintain structural capability. The whole structure need to be completely linked to the structural capability of each panel.

[6] “Voltadom By Skylar Tibbits - Designplaygrounds”, Designplaygrounds[8] “Voltadom Installation / Skylar Tibbits + SJET - Evolo | Architecture Magazine

Case Study 1.0B2.

The elegant patterns should be the most outstanding feature of Vousoir cloud and this is apparently an outcome from the technique of tessellation. Different from the Volta Dom, Vossoir cloud doesn’t simply follow the strict rules of tessellation but instead it leaves spaces between each modules while each gaps allows penetration of light which create a dramatic effect. Apart from patterning, the Delaunay tessellation also provide critical information for structural logic which determine the purely compression system.

The form finding of the vaulted geometry can be seen referring to the hanging chain model. The force of gravity is driven to various anchor points to create different effects from the base geometry [5]. The form of Vossoir cloud is an efficient response to optimize the structural force with the lightweight plywood surface which are completely under compression [9].

Iwamoto Scott- Voussoir CloudLocation: Los Angeles, CA, United StatesYear: 2008

[5] “Iwamotoscott”, Iwamotoscott.com, 2016 [11] “11 Edmonton”, MARC FORNES & THEVERYMANY™, 2011 [9] “’Voussoir Cloud’ By Iwamotoscott With Buro Happold - Archivenue”

Species1 Species3

Species2 Species4

1

2

Species5

3

4

1. I have choosen this as one of my selection because it looks the most different from the others. Here, I put all the points along one side and I found that this has affect the whole form but not only the location of openings.2. This iteration was selected due to its aesthetic form. Its shape is visually interesting compared to the others. I like how the triangulated plane grown from the centre and appear like a flower. 3. I was exploring how patterns can be generated over here. In fact, the chosen iteration has the simplest pattern among all others, but I like the equal balance which formed the regular rhombus pattern.4.The form of this iteration made me think of some cathedrals. But , in favt, what I am exploring here is the cull faces. I found out that by using this component, a pretty much regular pattern will be formed. It is hard to create something really unique.

Case Study 2.0B3 .

[2] “Dragon Skin Pavilion– LEAD – Laboratory For Explorative Architecture & Design[3] “Dragon Skin Pavilion / Emmi Keskisarja + Pekka Tynkkynen + Kristof Crolla (LEAD) And Sebastien Delagrange (LEAD)”, ArchDaily Magazine

Architects: Emmi Keskisarja, Pekka Tynkkynen, Kristof Crolla (LEAD) and Sebastien Delagrange (LEAD)

Location: Kowloon Park, Hong KongProject Year2012

Dragon Skin Pavilion

The Dragon Skin Pavilion is designed as an experimental artwork by architecture students from Finland [3]. It concept is to inspires people to think the space we live in today being developed into a technology combined space in the future [3]. Through digital design and fabrication technology, the project intends to explore new opportunities for spatial, tactile, and material possibilities. [3]

The project shows how tessellation is implemented, in this case, the regular, repetiting wooden panels interconnected to each other to create its general form. I found the joining system used here interested me the most. In most other projects, additional bolts are often necessary for connecting structure but instead, the Dragon Skin Pavilion is designed with algorithm to get accurate position of each panel which shifted with a certain degree of angle to create its curvature and connected by simply slide past to interlock one another for connection [2]. The structure formed with 163 pieces of plywood components which are digitally fabricated by bending rectangular pieces; doesn’t only take patterning for aesthetic purpose, but the material capacity is also significance in providing structural stability [3].

Create curves and loft to create general form

Cull to shift pattern position and scaled them to get this final result

Reverse EngineeringB3 .

1

1

1

5

Create tesselation patterns

1

Create tesselation patterns Morph patterns onto surfaceCreate bounding boxfor pattern

1 1 12 3 4

By creating the triangulated pattern and morphing it to the surface, I am able to develop a similar form of the Dragon Skin Pavilion. However, I noticed that the actual pavilion has a much complex tessekation pattern than what I did here. In the real one, each wooden modules are different from the bottom to the top of the openings in order to form the curvature.

Form Finding through culling points

Form Finding through adjusting constraint curve

Form Finding through adjusting constraint curve

Cull faces

Cull faces

Tesselation

Tesselation

I was aiming to find a form with the exploration on culling pattern. This component allows me to get control with the cells by using the boolean toggle by simply setting true or false.. I like this hemisphere dome form which is able to create the spatial experience with the gradual increase in internal volume and unlike a sphere, it allows to provide a stable base for the structure.

Similar to what I aim above, by adjusting the constraint curves, I can easily control the size of openings and get a general form for the design. The curvature of the structure with the increase in height and a wide opening which is more likely to be considered as an open space which is an opposite of the one above.

I begin to think about pattering over here. This is one of the iterations taken from the exploration of patterning by culling faces. I choose this as one of my selection becasue of the nice composition formed with the balance between “positive” and “negative”. I think the gaps here are able to allows adequate lighting to get through.

Tesselation is one important element I found in the Dragon Skin Pavilion. Here, I lofted two curves to create a pattern for morphing onto the surface. I found this is interesting because the patterns itself formed the gaps in between each patterns initially without the need of culling faces like what I did above,

This prototype is done with polystyrene to explore the potential for this material as well as the tessellation pattern. Each modules are cut with the exact small size and shape according to the printing.Material: Through this prototype, I found out that the bending capacity of polystrene is highly related to its thickness. Thick polystrene tends to crack easier than thinner one. Also, this material can perfectly float on water which is an important element in my design.Connection: I used wire to tie each module to another one. This joint has worked effectively to provide movement so as to form the opening for valve. Polystrene has pretty much reach my expectation in most of my testings, but it require a rigid support like a grid shell in order to stand structurally for a real architectural structure.

1.Testing with its bending performance2. Connection joints between each modules is explored with wire3. Test to see whether this connection is possible using for the valve4.Tesselation pattern5. Exploring the performance of how well it can be float on water

Technique Prototypes: B 5.

Dights Fall

Technique Proposal: Site of Interest: Dights Falls

B 6.

Dights Fall located at the downstream of the junction of the Yarra River with Merri Creek can be a possible area for my design. The weir at the dights increase the velocity of water so that rubbish can flow in naturally to the trap and able to keep litter inside without flowing back

Water pollution can trigger great impact to the environment. The wildlife can be greatly affected by the quality of water and there are reports showing that animals living in the Merri Creek are often trapped by rubbish such as water bottles, fishing nets, plastic rings and hair ties etc. Environmentalist has noted that it is almost impossible for entangled animals to free themselves and this can seriously threatened their lives. Animals can potentially get horrific hurt or forfeit the ability of foraging and may even get drown. There is no doubt that water pollution can leaves the habitat in poor condition or have a chance to lead animals to death.

Litter Trap is a floating device installed at strategic locations along waterways to collect and retain floating litter, vegetation and other debris. The system operates silently without any mechanical assistance, capturing and retaining debris ready for removal and disposal.” (Source: Bandalong Litter Trap)

Design concept:

I see this as an opportunity to create something to tackle this problem. I understand that definitely my design is impossible to fully collect all the litters but it also aims to remind people that the interrelationship between nature, technology and culture. My design intent is to use the concept of the litter trap which is able to trap the floating litter in order to reduce the amount of rubbish at waterway and developed it into a design with both function and aesthetic purposes

(Existing and original form of Litter Trap)

Parametric design can perfectly stand for the system connection in order to evoke people awareness and to think about how technology and culture are causing impacts to our nature.

For form finding of my design, I pay most attention on how the form can responds to its function which is to trap the litter in place. Also, the connection of the design and the site is linked with the fluid form of the litter trap where the curvature is derived from the curve of the waterway while the tesselation is taken form the pattern of the tree bark where I saw at the site . The structure itself need to be float on water so a low density material is required. Polystyrene is something that I am thinking of. Although it doesn’t seems to be a green material, the design can reuse polystyrene

that had been used for cups, containers or packaging etc. What brings into concern is that polystyrene, a lightweight material, is unable to stay in place. So, the structure will need to tie to rods thats are fixed to the ground. On the other hand, adopting the idea of tessellation from the Voussoir Cloud and the Dragon Skin Pavilion, for my design, patterns are arranged and packed in a similar way so that it can leaves spaces for fish to go through and not trapping them.

Mechanical power is not required for my design and it works solely with the natural force.

Pin joints will be used for the connection between the structure with the valve. The flap is opened up with the pushing force from the velocity of water allowing gabage to flow in naturally. In contrast, the flap will close to form an enclosure so rubbish can be trap inside without flowing back with an opposite velocity.

After part A, we switched from a research based study to really start experiencing the use of Grasshopper. From part b, it pushes me to develop computational design skill and the knowledge is fruitful. Throughout the course of part b, I faced a lot of challenges with the use of Grasshopper. I felt confused most of the time and this has definitely restrained the potential of my design. Case study 2.0 is a main struggle to me, I was unable to manipulate the definition for a long time. However, it was rewarding and I had gained some confident when the project has been generated. On the other hand, producing the large amount of different iterations made me feel tired but this had apparently helped me in experimenting and finding out the possibilities and limitations of the algorithm. This has further proven the advantages and opportunities of computational design which has been mentioned in part a research.

Learning Outcomes and Feedbacks

B 7.

Reflecting the feedbacks received from interim presentation, I noticed that the design still requires a deeper exploration in various aspects in order to be better developed. Form finding of the design should be taken into deeper consideration and get some improvements. Also, I have failed to think about the material and construction of the real structure. I have originally used paper as my prototype and this was apparently not ap-plicable to the real situation. Thus, I was reminded to develop a clearer understanding of how does the litter trap works and the components of it. So, I decided to take a step back to return to the researching stage in order to perceive a complete concept of what it was made up with as well as how it actually function.

[1] “Dragon Skin”, Dragonskinproject.com, 2016 http://dragonskinproject.com/

[2] “Dragon Skin Pavilion– LEAD – Laboratory For Explorative Architecture & Design”, L-e-a-d.pro, 2012 <http://l-e-a-d.pro/projects/dragon-skin-pavilion/2259/>

[3] “Dragon Skin Pavilion / Emmi Keskisarja + Pekka Tynkkynen + Kristof Crolla (LEAD) And Sebastien Delagrange (LEAD)”, ArchDaily, 2012 http://www.archdaily.com/215249/dragon-skin-pavilion-emmi-keskisarja-pekka-tynkkynen-lead

[4] “Dragon Skin Pavilion Is A Digitally Fabricated Plywood Sculpture - Evolo | Architecture Magazine”,Evolo.us, 2012 http://www.evolo.us/architecture/dragon-skin-pavilion-is-a-digitally-fabricated-plywood-sculpture/

[5] “Iwamotoscott”, Iwamotoscott.com, 2016 <http://www.iwamotoscott.com/VOUSSOIR-CLOUD>

[6] “Voltadom By Skylar Tibbits - Designplaygrounds”, Designplaygrounds, 2011 http://designplaygrounds.com/deviants/voltadom-by-skylar-tibbits/

[7] “Voltadom By Skylar Tibbits | Skylar Tibbits - Arch2o.Com”, Arch2O.com, 2013 http://www.arch2o.com/voltadom-by-skylar-tibbits-skylar-tibbits/

[8] “Voltadom Installation / Skylar Tibbits + SJET - Evolo | Architecture Magazine”, Evolo.us, 2011 http://www.evolo.us/architecture/voltadom-installation-skylar-tibbits-sjet/

[9] “’Voussoir Cloud’ By Iwamotoscott With Buro Happold - Archivenue”, Archivenue.com, 2016 <http://www.archivenue.com/voussoir-cloud-by-iwamotoscott-with-buro-happold/>

References

B 8. Appendix