ma nan 611953 part a&b

Nan Ma (Nancy)611953T06 Finnian Warnock

Architectural Design Studio: Air2015 Semester 1

PARTAConceptualization

Part A1 Design Futuring 5

Part A2 Design Computation 11

Part A3Composition Generation 15

Part A4Conclusion 21

Part A5Learning Outcomes 22

Part A6Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches 23

Part A7Reference List 25

Contents

PART BCriteria Design

Part B1 Research Field 28

Part B2 Case Study 1.0 31

Part B3Case Stduy 2.0 43

Part B4Technique: Development 49

Part B5Technique: Prototype 59

Part B6Technique: Proposal 63

Part B7Learning Objectives and Outcomes 71

Part B8Appendix- Algorithmic Sketches 72

Part B9Reference List 73

Nan Ma (Nancy)

The University of MelbourneBachelor of EnvironmentsMajor in Architecture

My name is Nan Ma, also called as Nancy, a third year architecture student born and raised in China. I believe that cities have memories, from any symbolic landscape and architecture can find out their past and present. No matter how cities look like, any tourists or strangers come to this city will feel the soul of this city while cities are mostly constituted by buildings, therefore the soul of cities can be read by looking at these buildings.

My experience with digital designing is limited as I previously prefer to use computational design as a production tool. The design studio Earth and Water allowed me to learn more skills about how use designing program to deepen and improve design. Currently, I am familiar with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, and skilled in Rhino, Sketch Up and Ecotect.

Parametric modeling is an interested but new field to me. I am eager to explore more on Rhino and its plug-in Grasshopper to broaden my designing possibilities. I enjoy the possibilities proposed by accurate computational design and I am also so keen to knowing the beauty and essence of parametric design.

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PART A CONCEPUALIZATION

Part A1DESIGN FUTURING

Nowadays, it’s undeniable that under the premise of not destroying the natural

environment, satisfying the requirements of human race has become a challenge. As a matter of fact, the human beings are already being given the nemesis by the nature, such as global warming and air pollution etc. The human beings should not live myopically any more, otherwise we are going to face the unpredictable catastrophic destruction. However, future changes

have to be done by designs instead of waiting chances. We also need be to critical to look at designs. ‘Design futuring’ requires to clarify what designs are supposed to be promoted or against.1 Just like the concept of sustainability is proposed, the efforts are supposed to be paid on it.

1 Tony Fry, Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg), pp. 1-16 (p. 4).

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This is a conceptual building

designed for Dubai by Faulders Studio. Its entire system can naturally grow to form building surface as time goes on and sea salt deposition.

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The salt water, is sprayed onto the mesh of building, evaporates and leaves a layer of salt thus to form a grid-like surface. In the view of fact that the salinity of seawater in Persian Gulf is the highest one over the world, salts would be deposited rapidly making the building surface like crystal-transparent shell.

This incredible and visual-impact building concept meets demands of specific regions. Buildings are getting old as time goes on; however, this concept keeps buildings be alive and renew their materials. It is totally a brand-new field but feasible idea for designing new buildings. Even though this concept has not been constructed, it has profoundly effects on finding more possibilities in the future and it has already broken through conventional thinking. I believe the concept of ‘building self-growth’will be applied and realized in the reality and it’s worthy to implementing.

SELF-GROWTH BUILDINGGeotube TowerFaulders StudioDubai

Building surface covers vascular like piping system. This system based on the structural grid frame is located

in a salt pond, the sea water would be collected and pumped from the Persian Gulf to the building through the underground pipes. Then, relying on floating solar battery board as a power plant, salt water is transported to the roof from underground, and then through the pipeline systems to realize the gravity feed.

Salt water is sprayed onto the mesh architecture, evaporates and leaves a layer of salt, thus forming a lattice epidermis. In view of the fact that the salinity of seawater in the Persian Gulf is the highest in the world, salt deposited rapidly, making the building surface like a crystal to produce a transparent shell.

9NATURAL ELEMENTS

FurnitureJoseph Walsh

Ireland

His work combines with arts and crafts,

every piece is made in log with the process of carve. The designer does not impose a fixed final form in the material, only using methods of bending and baking to make whole wood without careful treatment. He just peels the wood rough skin off and adjusts them to be furniture. Because of this, the free form naturally comes from the characteristics of wood itself. After restructuring these natural elements of wood, the real things bring into human being living places.

All these images on these two pages are from Joseph Walsh’s Studio website. http://www.josephwalshstudio.com/

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‘I believe we can enhance the quality of our lives by surrounding ourselves with objects that possess values beyond their function

or aesthetic, that possess intelligence in their creation, that one can interact with and that will stimulate senses each and every time one engages with them.’ Jeseph Walsh says that. He is a self-taught designer, realising one of a kind and limited edition pieces. Walsh-stylish creative design approach gives a reflection of his appreciation of nature and his desire to engage the user with visual and tactile forms.

Part A2DESIGN COMPUTATION

Design is an important component of today’s society and it is everywhere around

us. The world is transforming from traditional manufacturing industry to the era of information. During this revolution, the methods and approaches of design have been changing vastly. The tendency of doing designs by digital methods replacing traditional sketches has revealed.

The computers are playing a more and more important role in the design field and any complicated pictures and time-wasted work could be done by digital tools fairly easily. Moreover, the work could be modified during the design process which can increase a lot of efficiency. Kalay also formulates that computers can help human beings to manage the buildings and also can make great contributions to search and rationality.

Design is a process of problem-analysis and problem-solving. As Kalay argues that ‘Design, accordingly,

is a purposeful activity, aimed at achieving some well-defined goals.’1 Digital modeling software is capable of listing and tracking all the goals and constraints that the design solution must accomplish and greatly assisting human designers to manage smaller parts or larger parts of design process.

Even though design computation never makes mistakes, it lacks of human being creativity and intuition. If there is nobody manipulate on it, it is totally useless. Kalay thinks that ‘computers will contribute their superb rational and search abilities, and we humans will contribute all the creativity and intuition needed to solve design problems.’2 In this case, ‘such a symbiosis is predicated on communication’ which means to share knowledge and make full use of different talents.3

1 Kalay Yehuda E, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5-25, (p. 9) 2 Kalay Yehuda E, pp. 5-25, (p. 7)

3 Kalay Yehuda E, pp. 5-25, (p. 15)

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COMPUTATIONITKE Research PavilionICD-ITKE University of StuttgartGermany

Computation can be typically considered as algothrithmic modeling, specifically through digital tools such as Rhino, Grasshopper and T-splines to realize. It is helpful for designers to deal with context, winds, lights, construction and etc. Compare to the outcomes, it maximizes possibilities to explore further design potential rather than pursuing a results. An illustrated example here is ICD-ITKE pavilion which is another bionic successful research pavilion. This mode of working is re-defining the practice of architecture, which works greatly on solving complicated problems through using digital models to extend capability.

Computerization, a conventional approach of designing performance, can help designers to visualize their preconceived ideas easily by using particular drawing tools. Computer assisted design can show and illustrate designs in a better way. Zaha Hadid’s Edifici Torre Espiral is a good example to illustrate this approach. Conceptual ideas sometimes come out from mind suddenly, so quick sketching to note it down and then doing modification later on digital software are quite efficient and clear. Just like what Zaha did for Edifici Torre Espiral. Sketching out ideas on paper is prior to being operated by digital software.

COMPUTERIZATIONEdifici Torre EspiralZaha Hadid ArchitectsBarcelona

Above: Source from ArchdailyBelow: Source from archdaily

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COMPUTATION DESIGNPhoenix International Media CenterBIAD UFo StudioBeijing

The sculptural shape originates from ‘Mobius Strip’. The unique shape provides the building stay in harmony

relationship with surroundings such as existing streets, public green spaces and the lake. Concepts of energy-saving and low-carbon are also applied in the building design. The irregular shape in southern and northern elevations provides quality of sunlight, ventilation and abundant landscape view to the office towers. Moreover, because of different elevations, sunshine to the residential buildings in the north cannot be blocked.

The circular contours around the Phoenix complex respond to one of important ancient Chinese philosophy—‘Yin-Yang’; that is they are sharing similar symbol. Because of irregular shape, leading-edge parametric 3D modeling software would be used for developing ideas. “This building could be characterized as a new study on computational design,” the chef designer explains during an interview.1 Just as Kalay formulates, to overcome all the difficulties in the design process, human beings are supposed to combine their intelligence, intuition and creativity with computers’ superb rational and search ability together, and also make full use of own advantages.

The Beijing-based architect says ‘this modeling software enabled him (the chef designer) to intricately manipulate the parameters of the overall design and structural engineering of the Phoenix Center, to precisely control the airflow around the building and to convert the façade’s steel diagrid into a network of miniature canals to transport raindrops into an array of reflective pools surrounding the building.’2 The conversion clearly explains the importance and power of digital modeling. Designers can copy, delete, track changes and improve digital models on the computer by taking less time. Most importantly, computer can accurately calculate without any mistakes such as the width of pipe, quantity of steel bars etc.

1 Arcspace, Shao Weiping (3 March 2014) <http://www.arcspace.com/features/shao-weiping/phoenix-media-center/ > [accessed 16 March 2015]. 2 Arcspace, Shao Weiping (3 March 2014) <http://www.arcspace.com/features/shao-weiping/phoenix-media-center/ > [accessed 16 March 2015]. All images here are from Arcspace and Wechat

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Part A3Composition/ Generation

With the application and the improvement of computation technology in design, a great

deal of design work which had to be done by hands in the past times while now can be processed by computer. Digital modeling significantly changes the world of design and engineeringt and increases the complexity and possibility of what can be built and designed. It seems that try to find new breakthrough of computation is crucial to fabricate innovative designs and broaden boundaries of capability.

The development of modeling, actually, is a change from physical modeling to digital modeling. At the same time, the use of digital modeling software is shifting Architecture from drawing to the algorithm in designs. The traits of drawing by hand are: it can express the concepts of designer intuitively; it is vividly show people a feeling of returning to nature. However, hand-drawing usually take a very long time to finish a particular work; besides, mistakes are intolerant because it is not easy to redraw but you can delete and redo works on computer. Undoubtfully, computation is redefining the practice of architecture, which had already promoted the shift of architecture practice from drawing to algorithm, in parallel to the shift from composition to generation.

Computer can be used as ‘a virtual drafting board to make model easier to edit, copy and increase the precision of drawings.’ Most importantly, computer empowers designers to generate complicated forms furthering by their intelligence, creativity and capability. Computational design is more concentrated on buildings’ performance such as how to deal with construction, environment, ecology and economy rather than the outcome from itself.

In reacting to the shift from composition to generation, computation becomes essential when designs need to be completed. ‘Computation also allows designers to extend their abilities to deal with highly complex situation’, especially good for large projects.1 Unlike conventional approach, computation as a new approach of design is considered as an important way to integrate building with surrounding environment where architects are able to explore further options and speculate on further design potentials. The shift from composition to generation certainly had given architects possibilities to explore more beyond the surface qualities.

1 Brady Peters, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 83 (2013), pp. 8-15, (p. 10).

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COMPUTATIONAL APPROACHTEK CentreBIG ArchitectureTaipei

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Computation certainly plays an important role of redefining the practice of architecture in the shift from composition

to generation. For large-scale construction projects, from the very beginning of design and planning, project construction, completion and final acceptance, is a long process where a lot of uncertainties exist. Taking technology of parametric design is a major breakthrough to overcome all the difficulties. It is throughout the entire period of building construction as it can prefabricate architectural design, construction and management and list all the complicated information together.

Even though TEK (Technology, Entertainment and Knowledge) Centre in Taipei is designed for a competition by BIG Architecture, BIG Architecture team used computational design to realize their first conceptual design. This project was challenged with the task of integrating streets into building to create more public spaces and what kind of material can be used for construction without affecting lightness of whole building. Architects took a computational approach by sectioning the cube with some inward contraction of potholes on the surface. The material of building is laminated concrete slab, this material not only can be used for shading, but also help visitors easy to enter.

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COMPUTATIONAL APPROACHFootball Stadium Arena BorisovOFIS ArchitectsBorisov, Belarus

Football Stadium Arena Borisov also used the algorithmic thinking to approach. The stadium is surrounded by vast expanse of trees and is made up of flat but smooth silvery steel skin with structural framework and irregular perforation. Architects take consideration about the existence of natural advantage and terrain intervention in the site and they are trying to save these existing trees as many as possible. It would be complicated if do it without computation. One important thing about this parametric precedent is the interpretive role of algorithm does in the design. The use of algorithmic thinking to shape the stadium led to the exploration of new ideas and potentials of further design.

The idea originates from really dynamic things from nature such as foam, rocks etc. This stadium looks like a lightweight textile membrane over a tube. Through separating different parts from it to design part by part, including the building envelop, structure, tribunes, entrances etc., it eventually achieves that a theme that is appropriate for the stadium zonings. ‘Architects are increasingly experimenting with computation to simulate building performance, to incorporate performance analysis and knowledged about material, tectonics and parameters of production.’1 During process of design, computational design allows designers to get performance feedback from various stages and modification can be done in many times.

1 Brady Peters, pp. 8-15, (p. 13).

All images here are from Archdaily

Part A4CONCLUSION

Designing a sustainable future for human beings is designers’ main challenge and responsibility. Design is an activity

of purpose and a process of solving new problems. To address the problem of integration between context and buildings and other social problems, computer plays an important role in every stage of design. Therefore, computerization makes the realization of design possible, computational approach and algorithmic thinking push it further, augmenting the intellect of the designer and increasing capability to solve complex design problems. There is no denying that parametric language is redefining the practice of architecture, which had given rise to the shift of architecture from composition to generation.

Before doing Studio Air, the approach of all the projects I did is computerization design. I usually do some hand-drawings first, modified designs on paper as well and then do the final design by using digital tools. I cannot say it wastes time, because quickly sketches what

you are thinking and what you are inspired is an instinctive reflection. However, I did waste a lot time on redoing the same thing. I am intended to have a try on algorithmic thinking as my future approach as it would allow me to explore more new ideas and also easily solve some complicated problems.

With the rapid development of Architecture, some strange landmarks are emerged in different places. It seems to indicate the architectural design industry would face new innovation of technology, which I believe this innovation can rely on development and application of parametric design. In the future, personally, more and more people will aware that the core functions of parametric design, such as maximally extending human beings’ thinking, providing more possibilities and range changes of all the variable etc. Architects can relatively intuitively adjust the variables through parametric design to achieve best state of projects in controllable range.

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Part A5LEARNING OUTCOMES

By learning grasshopper, I came to realize the meaning of using parametric design as approach is not simply a tool

of generating ideas, but its potential is to explore further options to solve complicated design problems. Even though my computing skills are at introductory level, I believe that the learning algorithmic thinking will help my future designs and will affect the way I am thinking. In addition, using approach of parametric design would create more uncertain designs, which may inspire me to come out more surprising and unbelievable building forms.

Through doing some researches, I found that in existing three-dimensional system, most of architects use dynamic navigation or quick sketch to generate the two-dimensional profile features of three-dimensional structure and then use digital tool of extrusion to get three-dimensional model. However, the parameter of three-dimensional modeling system has

huge difference with actual modeling system. The difference is caused when project tree-dimensional model to two dimension model. Especially for measurements, digital software cannot accurately do parametric design from engineering drawings. Therefore, due to the immaturity of the software, skills of architectural parametric design still need to be improved.

The capability of Architecture is also constantly improved with the development of society. I believe that future parametric design will be able to have s significant impact and change for the construction disciplines, let’s wait and see.

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Part A6Appendix --- Algorithmic Sketches

The parametric generation of outer cross steel frames around the model is the most interesting

outcome that I have generated through using Grasshopper. Through learning and knowing more about parametric design, I was amazed and crazy about adjusting different the variables to look at incredible and dynamic shape that I ever expected. During this process, it proves me that computation is capable to argument the intellect of a designer and increases his or her capability to solve complex problems.

Further exploration and implementation in integrating multiple computational techniques in the material systems would be ideal to generate s suitable design outcome for Part B. I have researched some computational techniques from Part A precedents. I am also intended to learn some new material techniques from precedents to integrate it with my later design to broaden the design opportunities and generate proper design outcome for Part B.

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Part A.1Tony Fry, Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg), pp. 1-16.

Faulders Studio (2009) <http://faulders-studio.com/GEOTUBE-TOWER> [ac-cessed 11 March 2015].

Joseph Walsh Studio, <http://www.josephwalshstudio.com/>[ accessed 13 March 2015].

Part A.2Kalay Yehuda E, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Meth-ods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5-25.

Archdaily, ICD-ITKE Research Pavilion 2013-14 (8 July 2014) <http://www.archdaily.com/522408/icd-itke-research-pavilion-2015-icd-itke-university-of-stuttgart/> [Accessed 11 March 2015].

Archdaily, Spiral Tower (14 July 2009) <http://www.archdaily.com/29029/first-stone-of-the-spiral-tower-by-zaha-hadid-in-barcelona/> [Accessed 11 March 2015].

Shao Weiping, Phoenix International Media Center (3 March 2014) <http://www.arcspace.com/features/shao-weiping/phoenix-media-center/> [as-sessed on 15 March 2015].

Part A.3Brady Peters, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 83 (2013), pp. 8-15.

BIG Architecture, TEK Centre <http://www.big.dk/#projects-tek> [assessed on 18 March 2015].

Murrye Bernard, TEK Centre (27 December 2010) <http://buildipedia.com/aec-pros/featured-architecture/technology-entertainment-and-knowl-edge-center-tek-cener> [assessed on 18 March 2015].

Archdaily, Football Stadium Arena Borisov (28 October 2014) <http://www.archdaily.com/562054/football-stadium-arena-borisov-ofis-architects/> [assessed on 18 March 2015].

Reference List

Part B CRITERIA DESIGN

Approaching towards the case study, the research field of Geometry is chosen for my exploration purpose. I am convinced that its fluidity, order and consistency characteristics are suitable for constructing an interactive space.

As Geometry will be used as basis on the interpretation of architecture, I believe that its order and fluidity attribute could further link with a dynamic and well-ordered overview in our final design outcome. Moreover, I also believe giving aesthetic manner alone to parametric design is not enough. Supported by Moussavi’s argument in the paper of The Function of Ornament, a good outcome of architecture is supposed have great integration which combines with functional

and representational features.

The approach in Part B will be started from learning Structural Geodesics Skyscraper explore the form of structural geodesics (representational feature) together with the installation of sustainable energy (functional design).

As Moussavi mentioned, ‘…these internal orders that architecture gains an ability to perform relative to culture…’ It is necessary to consider urban setting and culture into design to provide a function as interactive living space. That is, the design outcome would be favorable not only in terms of its aesthetic beauty but also being an interactive living space to create the concept of sustainability.

Part B1Research Field

SOLAR MEMBRANE- COVERED TOWER CONCEPTSructural Geodesics SkyscraperVahan MisakyanYerevan, Armenia

The Structural Geodesics Skyscraper is a futuristic design which aid to be environment-friendly and sustainable. An “intelligent” skin over the building is used for equipping with rain water collection systems, photovoltaic cells and wind turbines. Moreover, this intelligent skill controls mechanical openings so that it is able to control how many daylights can go through into building.

Three undulated towers and the top structure are organically together while bridge-shaped livable space runs through. There is not only around 50% outer surface is open design, but also garden and green areas are provided in the opening as well. The center of the building is a hollow cylinder which is designed for removing hot air from outside, thus it can regulate the temperature of green area, commercial area and residential area.

Flexibility for light and wind to enter is important medium to enhance the interactivity between interior surrounding and exterior environment. This design promotes the similar

principle with ‘Geometry’ which three-dimensional polygon small unit is used for the basic structural shape. In addition, this design also considers the urban setting. The entire complex consists of several parts such as the major part of skyscraper and the other building complex with the new transportation hub as the additional part. They are extension of the main volume, aim of which is to create clear architectural environment for the people in the street and the architecture for human scale.

Interaction between users and exterior environment can be greatly achieved by integrating building with nature. Therefore, the feature of sustainability (functional design) is used in this design with purpose of providing better livable space for interior areas.

RULED SURFACESG2012- GridshellMATSYSNew York

SG2012-GRID SHELL CLEARLY SHOWS THE MATERIAL SYSTEM OF GEOMETRY AND IT ALSO CLEARLY REPRESENTS HOW MATERIAL PROPERTY CAN BE EMBEDDED WITHIN PARAMETRIC DESIGN AND ANALYSIS ENVIRONMENT. THE MATERIAL OF CLUSTER FOCUSES ON TIMBER AS THEY GIVE A CHANCE TO EXPLORE THE INTEGRATION OF GENERATIVE AND ANALYTIC DIGITAL TOOLS WITH MATERIAL REALITY. HOWEVER, THIS CLUSTER EXPERIMENTS WITH PARAMETRIC MODEL THAT INTEGRATE THESE MATERIALS ANF GEOMETRIC PARAMETERS THROUGH USING SOME DIGITAL TOOLS SUCH AS GRASSHOPPER, KANGAROO AND KARAMBA. ADDITIONALLY, THE CLUSTER WILL BE DEVELOPED INCLUDING THE USE OF GENETIC OF GENETIC ALGORITHMS AND ITERATIVE PHYSICAL PROTOTYPING AS AN EVOLUTIONARY DESIGN PROCESS.

MINIMAL SURFACEGreen VoidLAVASydney, Australia

This project is a digital design, inspired from nature, realized in lightweight fab-ric, using the latest digital fabrication and engineering techniques to create more with less. The 20 metre tall sculpture is made up of lightweight, woven fabric stretched over aluminum profiles and suspended on the thin stainless steel cables.

This design refers to the structure of cells, crystal and soak-bubbles making full use of material tension and trying to use minimal surface by digital calculating. The installation is a ‘Minimal Surface’ that consists of a tensioned material, digi-tally patterned and custom-tailored for the space. The chief designer Chris said that ‘The concept was achieved with a flexible material that follows the forces of gravity, tension and growth, similar to a spider web or a coral reef. We are interested in the geometries in nature that create both, efficiency and beauty’.

B2.2Species & Iterat ions

#1.2CRV DIVIDE 11NO. CONTROL PT 10CRV DIVIDE 11SHIFT LIST 5 -5






#2.2NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 10CRV DIVIDE 80BRANCH ABCD REVERSE

#2.4NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 10CRV DIVIDE 80BRANCH CD REVERSE

#2.6NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 80CRV DIVIDE 80BRANCH C REVERSE

#2.1NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 8CRV DIVIDE 100LENGTH 1.85

#2.3NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 10CRV DIVIDE 80LENGTH 3.35

#2.5NEW SURFACENO. CONTROL PT 10CRV DIVIDE 80BRANCH BD REVERSE

#3.2Set New CRVCRV B Shift 5CRV A Reverse

#3.4Add New CRVThree Arch ConnectCRV AB Shift 1CRV AB Reverse

#3.6Pipe Radius 0.25Shift 3Reverse Curve B

#3.1Set New CRVCRV B Shift -2CRV DIVIDE 20

#3.3CRV A Shift -5CRV B Shift -5CRV DIVIDE 30CRV B Reverse

#3.5Reverse CRV ACRV Divide 15Sweep Radius 0.15

#4.2SRF DIVIDE U35 V3Flip Matrix


#4.6SRF DIVIDE U3 V6Flip MatrixAmplitude 5.8


#4.3SRF DIVIDE U16 V6Flip MatrixBall Radius 0.18

#4.5SRF DIVIDE U3 V6Flip MatrixAmplitude 1.9

#5.2Random Points 16Scale 0.74Nurb CRV Degree 1Toggle Ture


#5.6SeriesA Start 5 Step 5SeriesB Start 2 Step 8Gradient



#5.5SeriesA Start 0 Step 10SeriesB Start 0 Step 10Gradient

At the first stage of experiment, the first iteration only altered the exiting parameters without inputting new geometry or adding new definition. This allows me to get clear sense about how the primitive mechanism of curves influenced on Gridshell.

The second species was altered by transforming curves and changing the way of connecting two lines in order to explore different dynamic shape, amazing movement and continuity of well-ordered and parametric strips.

Grasshopper is able to create infinite possibilities for parametric design from one primary source. In this part, the given grasshopper definition is SG2012- Gridshell. I was trying to change its different parts into simpler or more complicated form by changing existed parameters, replacing surface and adding new components in Grasshopper. The purpose of this approach is aimed to find more unexpected outcomes and possibilities.

The third species was done by repositioning and rotating geometries. Interactive lines give me different feeling.

The fifth species explored more the structure. More possibilities of different outcomes are generated by Voronoi, Gradient and Weaverbird. When I put weaverbird component, it is generating a very interesting wavy surface.

After experimenting and generating different species, I moved on to the selection criteria to pick four iterations from 30 species. Basically, these selections will be helpful or enable me to process into further exploration and possibilities.

I believe that these four species that I would like to choose are able to use renewable and sustainable material (potential to be made of environmental-friendly material) and can be fabricated. They also need to have aesthetic characteristics and elegant shape in order to attract visitors to come. Lastly, it is supposed to have further exploration (potential to have possibilities of further development).

In the case study one, discovering many types of curves, layers and structure that could be formed by base geometries and various parameters are the main focus to generate interesting outcomes. Therefore, playing around with different basic things will give me some new inspirations. I believe that further development of this iteration may result in surpassing the conventional understanding of Geometry.

B2.3Selection Criteria &Outcomes

1 2

This iteration was processed by transforming curves and changing the way of connecting lines. It is not simple waffle girds, but instead it has a sharp corner in the intersection of two lines. It will be beneficial for supporting the whole structure. In terms of adaptability of sustainable technology, geothermal energy harvesting would be best to introduced to this iteration.

A good demonstration of Geometry can be greatly seen in this iteration. By dividing curves into more pieces, a very smoothie surface is obtained. I believe these smoothie characteristics that may be suitable for underground context if further develop.

A triangle structure was built up on the surface to experiment the different variation which can be produced. The solid frame is stretch out in different directions for the creative shape. For the further exploration, some sustainable technology or equipment can be adapted into this iteration such as solar panel, hydroelectricity etc.

The most amazing function that grasshopper have is iteration can be visually and smartly calculated in an accurate way. This iteration was processed by adding new skin on the surface (voronoi) and using component of surface morph. And then, it gave me a desirable outcome. In this case, this iteration is very sustainable as it has lots of openings and fresh air can be easily obtained. However, for the further development, some solar panels can be installed at the top of skin.

3 4

Most importantly, this design gives me insight to figure out how to take consideration for material construction. An elliptical ground level shape and a rotated second elliptical form are connected together via steel tubes. These tubes were filled with concrete in order to increase stability and enable fire protection after multiple stories were precisely fixed in position. However, realization of this design is based on computational designing thus it gets better opportunity to make sure whether this idea can be realized or not.

This design basically starts from an elliptical ground level shape and part of filled-concrete steel tubes around, but when it is constructed higher, the central cylinder is supposed to be finished first. The calculation is complicated that digital programe is needed to ensure the web of rotating steel tubes fitted together. The structure consists of an open lattice-structure, built up from 1100 nodes and the same amount of connecting ring- and bracing pieces.

Compared to my previous case study SG2012-Girdshell, the computation method was used as a tool to generate form. However, in this case study, focus should be shifted from aesthetic form to create amazing structure for the means of corporation of sustainability.

B3.1Case Study 2.0

B3.2Reverse Enginnering

B4.1Species &Iterations

#1.2CircleA 58 CircleB 71Rotating Degree 35CRV Divide 14Shift 6






#2.2CircleA 11 CircleB 64Extrude on Z 242CRV Divide 12Rotate Degree 24






#3.2Python ScriptU 16V 5

#3.4SRF Divide U7 V10Amplitude 9.8Shift 1

#3.1Python ScriptU 5V 5



#4.2Offset DistanceA 24Offset DistanceB 6SRF Divide UV7Flatten Dispatch






#5.2Grid Size 2Ex5 Ey2PolygonA Radius 2.5PolygonB Radius 2.5

#5.4Grid Size 2Ex8 Ey8PolygonA Radius 2.5PolygonB Radius 8

#5.6Grid Size 5Ex8 Ey8PolygonA Radius 15PolygonB Radius 20



#5.5Grid Size 2Ex8 Ey8PolygonA Radius 8PolygonB Radius 8

#6.2CircleA Radius 5CircleB Radius 9Shift Item 12

#6.4CircleA Radius 3.5CircleB Radius 6Shift Item 15

#6.6CircleA Radius 2.5CircleB Radius 3.5Shift Item 8

#6.1CircleA Radius 5CircleB Radius 8Shift Item 12



#4.2SRF Divide U15 V10Factor 1.2Extrude Z: 200Range 0.4


#4.6SRF Divide U60 V80Factor 2.0Extrude Z: 200




Morph Geometry into Surface UVW CoordinatesSurface Morph: U=V=1

#9.2CRV Divide 91CircleA 312 CircleB 164Series: Start 79 Step 8






Except criteria from the brief, the selection criteria includes aesthetic appearance, potential for further development, and fabrication possibilities in order to push this measure to its optimum standard.

As Kalay mentioned in her article, problems need to be tackled by producing candidate solutions for consideration and choosing the right solution for further consideration and development in order to obtain the best result. She also proposed that criteria of depth, breadth and priority need to be met when solution needs to be found out. Therefore, during the process of meeting these requirements, the outcomes can be moderated better including materiality, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance

etc.

Some successful were chosen as they have dynamic shape, ideal structural and further developed potential. This series of iterations were generated by focusing on the elegant structure of Canton Tower. The dynamic thing of the first one is the change of is skin. Some of them are void while some of them are solid. During this experiment, I found that differnent fluent skin can give me different feeling. The second is created by using Surface Morph. The fluidity appearance gives me the sense of key characteristic of Geometry. The third was generated by using different start and step number of series. The naturally rotate its shape also very dynamic.

Prototype

Connection Materiality

Knee Brace Fabrication

B5Technique: Prototypes

This ‘Flower Shelter’also can be named as ‘Vertical Garden’ has circular gradient lattice structure and its shape, space and structure are generated by oval bamboo rotating strips upward to change. Lattice structure relatively loose in the bottom , up to the waist is more intensive, the waist is fixed just like a braided rope, and then an open lattice structure at the top connected with rotated oval panel.

Moreover, the way of connecting

boxes and strips will use Knee Brace as it is able to hold the weight of soils and is not easily broken down when it is windy.

Prototype Main Structure:

Prototypes were fabricated to investigate structural tectonics and how boxes of planting flowers can connect with strips. Notches of lattice structure create stability and prevent structure from collapsing. Besides, boxes of planting flowers are fixed on the lattice structure so that they are not easily fall down.

This Vertical Garden or Flower Shelter installation aims to bring more natural elements to the site and also stimulate visitors to the site. It will be positioned along Merri Creek, or used for street light or tram and bus stop signboards. Therefore, an interactive community space can be created to raise the awareness of sustainable energy and trying to use environmental materials. The bamboo strips are rotating upwards to the top as a main supporting element and boxes with soils around it will be used for planting flowers.

B6Technique: Proposal

B6.1Design Process

B6.2Materiality

Bamboo is one of the most efficient renewable and recycling materials in the planet. When 30 to 50 years are needed for harvesting of conventional timber, bamboo only needs 3 to 5 years to be ready. Furthermore, their light and high strength coefficients characteristic ensure structural integrity. In my design, bamboo material will be developing for the use of construction. Most importantly, there are many places in Melbourne selling or planting bamboo so that it is a local

supply material which will have low embodied energy and be sustainable.

For the material boxes, I would like to use timber as it is also a lightweight material. There are lots of available trees in Melbourne. Therefore, local supply material saves transportation fees. Most importantly, timber can be degradable and recycled which is environmental-friendly and sustainable material.

B6.3Future Possibilitis

Street Light: with a solar panel at the top

Bus/Tram Stop Signboard: bring more natural elements to the humans living space

B7Learning Outcomes &Objectives

Through doing Part B, there have been lots of challenges to be overcome. At the first stage, I started adapting a new designing method also known as parametric computation. It was very difficult to generate a variety of design possibilities. But with long time spending time with it, my skill was getting better. When I had no idea about what I am supposed to address some problems, Woodbury’s article gave me a perception about the parametric fundamentals, parametric algorithm and also fabrication Considerations. In addition, Kalay’s article also provided me with some useful technique such as the ‘search’ process. By getting essential points from these readings, I was inspired to generate better ideas and iterations when comprehend.

For the material boxes, I would like to use timber as it is also a lightweight material. There are lots of available trees in Melbourne. Therefore, local supply material saves transportation fees. Most importantly, timber can be

degradable and recycled which is environmental-friendly and sustainable material. Even though bamboo has a lot of advantaged but it also has lots of drawbacks such not long enough life span etc.

Studio Air asks us try to understand the relationship between architecture and its surrounding environment. It is a good point for me to do from now on. This objective may not extremely crucial, but it does contribute a lot into my design process in terms of sustainability and green technology consideration.In Part C, I will keep using my idea which is trying to bring landscape and architecture together into one project. And also, the patterns of boxes will be considered as it would be a main feature of my project. Most importantly, I will try to find more essential ideas of my precedents to improve my design.

B8Appendix-- Algorithmic Sketch

Anemone Generation

Control Points

Anemone Generation Snowflake

Reference List

Farshid Moussavi and Michael Kubo, eds,The Function of Ornament (Barcelona: Actar, 2006), pp. 5-14.

Evolo, Structural Geodesics Skyscraper in Armenia (2015) <http://www.evolo.us/architecture/structural-geodesics-skyscraper-in-arme-nia/> [accessed 25 April 2015].

Kalay, Yehuda E., Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design(Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5-25

Lava Void, Lava Void (2015) <http://www.l-a-v-a.net/projects/green-void/> [accessed 20 April 2015].

Smart Geometry, Grid Shell (2015) <http://smartgeometry.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=134:gridshell-digital-tectonics&catid=44&Itemid=149> [accessed 19 April 2015].

Timber Frame, Knee Brace (2015) <http://www.timberframe-house-plans.com/joinery-post-girt-knee-brace.shtml> [accessed 28 April 2015].

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