nan ma(nancy)_611953_final_journal

Nan Ma (Nancy)611953T06 Finnian Warnock

Architectural Design Studio: Air

2015 Semester 1

PART AConceptualization

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

CONTENT

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 CDetailed Design

Part C1 Design Concept 67

Part C2 Tectonic Elements &Prototypes 96

Part C3Final Detail Model 102

Part C4Learning Objectives and Outcomes 110

Part C5Reference List 114

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.

‘Whatever your mind conceive and believe, it can achieve.’

2

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).

T his 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 stea salt deposition.

6

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.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.

Geotube TowerFaulders Studio, Dubai

SELF-GROWTH BUILDING

7

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

FurnitureJoseph Walsh, IrelandNATURAL ELEMENTS

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.

‘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.

8

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

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

2 Kalay Yehuda E, pp. 5-25, (p. 7)

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

1010

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 11

Phoenix International Media CenterBIAD UFo Studio, BeijingCOMPUTATION DESIGN

12

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 13

Part A3

Composition/ 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).

14

TEK CentreBIG Architecture, Taipei

COMPUTATIONAL APPROACH

15

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.

17

Football Stadium Arena BorisovOFIS Architects, Borisov, BelarusCOMPUTATIONAL APPROACH

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 Archdaily18

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.

20

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.

21

22

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.

Part B CRITERIA DESIGN

25

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

26

Structural Geodesics SkyscraperVahan Misakyan, Yerevan, Armenia

SOLAR MEMBRANE- COVERED TOWER CONCEPT

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.

28

SG2012- GridshellMATSYS, New YorkRULED SURFACE

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 and geometric parameters through using some digital tools such as grasshopper, kangaroo and karamba. Additionally, the cluster will be developed including the use of genetic algorithms and iterative physical prototyping as an evolutionary design process. As well as its integration between geometry, structures and material performance, a holistic precedent created by use of parametric tool inspired me a lot.

29

Green VoidLAVA, Sydney

MINIMAL SURFACE

This project is a digital design, inspired from nature, realized in lightweight fabric, 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, digitally 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’.

30

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






B2.2 Species and Interations

GridShell Case Study

31

#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

32

#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



33

#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

34

#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



36

Figure 1

Figure 2

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.

Part B2.3

Selection Criteria &Outcomes

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.

37

Figure 3 Figure 4

38

B3.1 Case Study 2.0

Canton TowerMark Hemel, Guangzhou China

STELL STRUCTURE

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.

B3.2 Reverse Enginnering

Canton Tower_Moments

STEP

01

Created- two ellipses

02

The upper ellipse rotates and tilts into right direction

03

Give it right step and beginning number between these two ellipese

04

Divide these two curves and shift dividing points to connect

40

05

Show all the components

06

Created- central cylinder

07

Final Outcomes- rendered by Ketshot

41

A variety of shapes can be generated by using computational tools while this shape whether could be constructed or not was not sure in the beginning.

The conceptual idea has lots of uncertain factors, totally designed in the aspect of aesthetics. During process of discussing tower itself and its structure, architects and engineers did every modification step by step.

Mr. Helmer produced a digital model of Canton Tower in the first place trying to calculate the number of ring beams, pillars and waist size. Finally, he found that the 36 bulky columns have to be reduced to 24 so that Canton Tower will be able to have a perfect size and ratio.

Everybody hoped that the waist of Canton Tower should be slender not only just architects. But what extent of slimness that can make tower stand up is an important thing to explore. For structure, when it is slim enough it will have safety issue and the costs of steel structure will be increased as well.Reduce 1 meter per in architectural drawing, it has to pay more 2000-4000 tons of steel. Thus, the radius of waist of the tower has been changing, it is finalized really late. In the end, bottoms oval size is 60 × 80 meters while the top’s is 40.5 × 54 meters and the thinnest waist position is in 280 meters. All this best position and size were found out by using computational tool.

Through looking at interview of Canton Tower’s chef designer, I have to say that the number of advantages of computation design is infinity. It brings architects and engineers new possibilities and further development potential. By using computation design, the design outcomes can be visually viewed and modified accurately before it starts construction. Easy to improve and easy to have better choices.

B4.1 Species &Iterations

Canton Tower Case Study

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






44

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






45

46

#3.2Python ScriptU 16V 5

#3.4SRF Divide U7 V10Amplitude 9.8Shift 1

#3.1Python ScriptU 5V 5





47

#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



48

#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



49



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


#4.6SRF Divide U60 V80Factor 2.0Extrude Z: 200Range 1.0Flatten Dispatch




50

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

51



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






52

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. Grasshopper is able to create infinite possibilities for parametric design from one primary source. 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.

53

Prototype

Connection Materiality

Knee Brace Fabrication

Part B5.0

Technique: Prototypes

54

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.

55

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.

56

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.

Part B6.0

Technique: Proposal

58

Part B6.1

Design Process

60

The way of generating lattice structure

Different possibilities patterns of flower shelters’ position

Choose the most suitable one for further generating

61

Different possibilities patterns of flower shelters’ position

Choose the most suitable one for further generating

Part B6.2

Materiality

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.

62

Part B7.0

Learning 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.

63

Part B8.0

Appendix-- Algorithmic Sketch

#Control PointsBy using component of ‘closest points to curve’ can generate various and interesting patterns

#Anemone Generation SnowflakeBy using Grasshopper pluged-in Anemone, it is getting easy to design something which can follow the loop

64

65

#Anemone Generation

#Based on Voronoi Definition

Part C DETAILED DESIGN

To address the feedback from the interim presentation, more specific technique need to be selected

to focus in depth for the final design development. In moving forwards developing a design concept, I figure out that I need to further explore on sustainability and what does Merri Creek really need. During this process, I also need to understand how to exert a better level of control and aesthetically incorporate it as part of the landscape design. By using

parametric tool, trying to understand how different variables affect design outcomes and how could it be relevant with precedents. As talked with my tutor, I agreed with what he suggested, that is Vertical Garden is another garden built up in a garden. However, the conceptual idea of sustainability and ecology is what I still want to keep as along Merri Creek is natural and non-polluted space. The functionality needs to be improved.

Part C1 Design Concept

C1.0 Interim Presentation Feedback


C1.1 Location Analysis

68

The Merri Creek is located in southern parts of State of Victoria which flows through the northern suburbs

of Melbourne. It begins in North of Melbourne and flows south for 70 km until it joins the Yarra River. The Merri Creek is an environmental, heritage and recreation corridor that draws its significance from its role as a continuous corridor as it does from the qualities of individual reaches. All areas of the Creek are important because they contribute to the linking of areas of environmental, heritage and recreational value along the Creek. The Creek has a unique role to play in the preservation of threatened flora and fauna and the

maintenance of vegetation communities that in other places have almost been totally destroyed.

Revegetation works and parkland development including path construction and park retrofit have created a linear park of outstanding quality and landscape character. Consequently, it plays an important role in the park system of the metropolitan region. While walking or cycling along Merri Creek, indigenous plantings, constructed wetlands and reserves and diverse animal can be obviously aware of.

69


C1.1.1 Landscape Analysis

70

As can be seen from this diagram of area of green coverage, both sides of Merri Creek are full of greenery space such as parks, wetlands, reserves etc. Therefore, the whole Merri Creel is natural and basically should be clean and pure.


C1.1.2 Transpotation Analysis

71

As can be seen from this diagram of roads location, along whole Merri Creek area has many roads can reach. This means Merri Creek is located at good position in Melbourne.


C1.1.3 Chosen Site_Road and Function Analysis

72

Figure 1 Figure 2

These two diagrams are in smaller scale than the previous analysis. These two are more specific on the site that I

choose. My site is located near the junction between Merri Creek and Yarra River. As here has higher water floating velocity, so it is able to make my design work efficiently. In addition, the back bridge is the last bridge in the Merri Creek if look at Merri Creek from North to South, which means it is the last chance to reduce amount of pollutants before it is going into Yarra River.

There is a small car parking near the place that I choose for placing my project and this site is also closed to the highway, therefore if there is anything to be delivered, it would be easy to make it. Figure 2 presents the type of properties in the neighbourhood. As can be seen from this diagram, most area near my site is for residential purpose, which means my site might be a good place for family union lunch. Therefore, some problems exist in this space need to be improved.


C1.1.4 Section Diagram

73

A

A

B

B

Section A-A

Section B-B

These two section drawings are cutting through Merri Creek and its surrounding land from North to South direction. These two drawings visually present the topography of Merri Creek which

is unflat and has different level water. Water of Merri Creek floats from higher level terrain to the relative lower level and then joins into Yarra River. In this special and beneficial space, my project will work efficiently.

74


C1.2 Problem Statement

In such natural environment, rubbish is floating over the river or accumulating on the side of Merri Creek. It not only happens in part of river, but also rubbish floats in lots of parts of river. Heavy industries were located nearby

the creek throughout much of 20th century, being home to quarries, landfills and accepting waste runoff from neighouring factories. There is no denying water pollution over the Merri Creek has resulted in degraded quality of living for primary inhabitants such as fish, birds and diverse wildlife. Water pollution also degraded the riparian ecology of the creek leaving behind pollutants such as heavy metals and various greases. Recent decades have seen some regenerative planting and the foundation of several community groups dedicated to protecting and regenerating the creek’s ecology.

That is why I am thinking why do not keep trying to improve water quality and make whole site be more ecological and sustainable. Nowadays, neighborhoods mostly are residential, which means it could be possible that families have lunch together here on weekends. In this case, it would be really annoying that rubbishes are below grasslands or floating over the creek. My initial idea is more suitable for some spaces with no environmental problem and being intent to add more natural elements in. However, along Merri Creek, it needs better water quality and clearer environment.

75

These photos were taken along Merri Creek

76

Ways of Generating River Trap Concept Ways of Generating

Form and Shape

77

Ways of Generating Form and Shape

Ways of Determining and Controlling Design Concept

Ways of Trapping Rubbish

Part C1.3

Generating River Trap Concept

78

Floating State: The river trap is floating over the creek in order to take floating rubbish. To do this, the materiality of river trap needs to be considered. There is no doubt that the density of material is less than water could make it float otherwise it would immerse into the creek.

Semi-floating State: This proposed state is the river trap is semi-floating in the creek. Half of the river trap will be above the river while the half of it will be immerse below the river. To do this, the materiality and volume of river trap also needs to be considered. It would be most feasible state to work out.

Immersing State: This state is the river trap that immersing into the river. Noticeably, it could come out a problem that the submerged plants probably would hitch it to prevent it trap rubbish efficiently. In addition, most of rubbish is floating over the river rather than sinking in the bottom of river. In this case, some fish and diving inhabitants would be attacked.

Part C1.3

Generating River Trap Concept_comparison with the tranditionals

80

81

Due to the amount of rubbish cannot be estimated and expected before, if the rubbish accumulated in front of racks and cannot clean up regularly, it will increase the difference of water level between in front

and back of river trap. Consequently, the destructive power from water flow will be increased and the rack will be compressed causes deflection and break.

As the river trap will be submerging in the water for long time, rust affects its durability. In this case, the water quality will be influenced due to the rust from trap fall into water. Moreover, the rust of river trap lattice will also lead to river trap is not able to trap more rubbish.

When the angle of river trap is greater than 60 degree, at its lower part has few amount of weed accumulation; while when the tilt angle is less than 45 degree, a variety of weeds can be pushed into the top with no winding dirt around river trap. Therefore, the best river trap is mounted at an inclined angle in order to take advantage of the impact of water floating pushed the floating and suspending rubbish that traps absorbed into the top water level of river trap1. In this case, the area of water that is able to float can be ensured and at the same time, it is convenient for cleaners or machines to clean them up. Most importantly, if the surface or lattice of river trap is changed into curved shape and the horizontal arc tangent with water level is greater than 45 degree2, this structure is more conducive for pushing rubbish or weeds onto the top of the river trap. Moreover, the arched structure has greater strength, stability and better performance.

All in all, as what I researched learnt what failed river traps, I believe my intent river trap is supposed to be ecological, sustainable and environmental friendly to the site and water quality, as well as it should be part of landscape. As the landscape around Merri Creek has great spiritual significance to the Wurundjeri people. Before Melbourne was founded and the area developed, the landscape was a complex mosaic of grasslands, grassy woodlands, freshwater meadows and streams, and was home to a multitude of plants and animals. Wurundjeri elders believe that a journey through this region was important for educating younger members of the tribe about Wurundjeri culture3. Therefore, it is responsible to protect and improve quality of Merri Creek.

1 Naihua Yuan, Plan Selection of Trashing Purge Large Pumping Station (Me-chanical Press: Beijing), pp. 20-35 (p.22).2 Naihua Yuan, p.27.3 Plan Melbourne, Government of Plan Melbourne, (27 May 2015) <http://www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au>

Part C1.3

Generating Form and Shapes_Via Minimal Surface (GreenVorid)

82

After learning the process of doing GridShell and Green Void, I am interested about the minimal

surface and also trying to integrate it with river trap due to the juxtaposition of ‘minimized material waste while maximizing its architectural presence ’, as well as integration between geometry, structure and material performance. In this case, the tensile material needs to have something like wire or steel acting as skeleton to support the whole structure. However, the bending potential of wires will affect the membrane outcomes. Green Void employs tensile membrane as well to provide an accurate and elegant shape of minimal surface. Therefore, after studying these two precedents, I was intent to make it be successful

on my project. However, I fingered out that if I do the minimal surface, it would have several problems may come out. Firstly, even though minimal surface is quite elegant and smooth, but it is going to be hard to get grid over it. As the tension of membrane would be limited and when the rains are heavy, the skeleton would not be enough to support the whole structure. Secondly, the primary responsibility of river trap is supposed to trap rubbish. However, this minimal surface has long span in the bottom and also would be have long span over the river, thus less rubbish can be trapped which means river trap losses its main function.

83

Part C1.4

Generating Form and Shapes

84

85

This is the first idea that I generated. It combines river trap function with bridge and asking people to be physically involved and interactive with my design. This idea integrates

minimal surface and the concept of river trap together. It is elegant and fully shows the tensile ability of membrane or steel or any other material system. However, it is placed on the site, the rubbish will be trapped in front of the river trap. More and more rubbish accumulate in the front will cause the beauty of Merric Creek and will also emit odour. Therefore, the water quality cannot be improved efficiently. Conversely, it will lead to more weed to be perishable.

86

Part C1.4


87

This is the idea that I integrate concept of river trap with bridge by applying definition of Minimal Surface. The bridge will be on the top of this. This is kind of idea is failed as well, as all

rubbish are trapped will be exposed and scattered in front of this. There is no space can store rubbish. Moreover, due to the direction of water floating is different and unexpected, probably collected rubbish will be separated again. Therefore, this conceptual idea of River Trap will not work greatly in both perspective of aesthetics and function.

88

Part C1.4


89

This is the last attempt that I generate by appying definition of Minimal Surface. This time the important aspect that I improved is it has somewhere to store rubbish (in the

middle). As can be seen the roughly rendering on the left, it has two openings in both sides, I was intent to design river trap that enable to collect pollutants in both direction when it is floating in the river. However, this idea thought is failed as the place of storing rubbish is not enough and fast velocity of water floating probably may casue rubbish dispersed.

Part C1.5

Determining and Controlling Design Concept

90

The waterway of Merri Creek twists and turns walking through hills, grasslands and reserves; steep terrain along the river banks on both sides and pollutants are accumulated on the sides of creek.

Pollutants from heavy industry, quarries, landfills and factories dominated the creek area. Pollutants are made up of complex and variable types. According to the Merri Creek Management Committee observational data, pollutants mainly are nutrients, heavy metals, sediments and toxicants, as well as rubbish1.

High levels of heavy metals in the sediments of Merri Creek as a result of contaminated stormwater from industrial areas and leachates from tip and former tip sites probably also contribute to this problem. Storm water runoff both urban and rural is a significant source of nutrients. Noticeably, organic pollution still affects parts of Merri Creek and turbidity and suspended solids periodically exceed SEPP objectives after storm events. Moreover, litter has a marked impact on environmental values and aesthetic amenity of urban reaches of the Merri waterways2.

In many “S” shaped channels, the width of creek is sharply wider or narrower, velocity of water flow is dramatically slower or faster. This will not affect the original river track to block pollutants. Therefore, there is still a great amount of pollutants piled up on both sides of the creek.

1 Merri Creek Management Committee, Merri Creek and Environs Strategy Chapter 3.2 - Water Quality and Stream Health (30 May 2015), <http://www.mcmc.org.au>.2 Merri Creek Management Committee, 30 May 2015.

91

As Merri Creek Management Committee observational data presents, pollutants mainly are nutrients, heavy metals, sediments and toxicants, as well as rubbish which means that the pattern of my proposed design is crucial. Different grid size and various pattern designs may influence final feasible outcomes. On the left pattern is made up of different size of grid in order to trap various types of pollutants. In the bottom the size of grid is getting small to ensure that pollutants can be blocked in the trap. Additionally, some large size of grid can make sure that my proposed river trap is able to have enough buoyant force rather than getting heavier to immerse into the creek. The relatively large grids are suitable to capture heavy mental, fabric etc while small grid is able to capture plastic bottles, litter etc.

92

This pattern design is relatively well-proportioned as it has same grid size. As there is no regulations how pollutants are scattering in the creek and there is also no fixed positions of pollutants are supposed to be. However, pollutions are floating or suspending over or in the creek which are influenced by floating velocity of water and topography of creek. Therefore, it is important to have different pattern design outcomes to suit different situation. As the left diagram shows, half of grid is solid while half of it is empty, but each grid is relatively small otherwise captured pollutants would float away with water.

This type of pattern has changeable tendency of grid size as I used ‘Curve Closest Point’ in order to have dynamic and interesting gradated tone over river trap surface. As my purpose of river trap is not only can trap pollutants but also should be a part of landscape, so the elegance is important. Some grids are void, some of grids are solid and some of grid is semi-void. In this case, it is suitable for all types of pollutants to be captured. Different lines that are able to affect pattern outcomes have been tried several times, the most suitable ones were chosen to apply river trap.

93

Part C1.5

Determining and Controlling Design Concept_Basic Structure

Above figures : front viewLeft figures: perspective view

As what I learnt from Canton Tower in Guang Zhou is the elegance steel framework around. I drew two ellipses in Grasshopper, rotated the upper ellipse and then lofted them to have a great amount of outcomes in order to generate similar but different

basic structure of river trap. These three outcomes are chosen as they have enough openings to collect pollutants. The main reason why I designed river traps in different general size is there are different types of pollutants so that it needs to have various shape and size to respond different requirements.

The opening is the largest area all over this basic structure as it requires enabling to collect as many pollutants as possible. However, it gets thinner and slimmer in order to transmit pollutants individually to the bottom where can store pollutants. Apparently, the place of storing pollutants needs to have enough space otherwise river trap is meaningless.

94

Part C1.6

Ways of Trapping Pollutants

Above diagram shows movable river trap is in the status of empty. It is semi-floating in the river and at the same time collecting pollutants. The contact area is large.

Above diagram shows movable river trap is in the status of almost full. It is semi-floating in the river, but the bottom would be down to a lower level. The contact area is smaller.

95

Figure1: Empty Status

Figure2: Almost Full Status

Store pollutants (rubbsih, litter...)

Store pollutants (rubbsih, litter...)But almost full

As different and various density of pollutants, they could immerse, semi-floating or fully floating in Merri Creek. When the river traps are semi-floating over the creek, it means it still is able to collect more pollutants while if its bottom moves down to a lower level,

it means river traps are almost full, but it does not mean it cannot collect pollutants. However, only semi-floating or even floating can be collected as they have smaller density and density is smaller than water.

Water Level

Water Level

Part C2 Tectonic Elements &Prototypes

C2.1 TimberConstruction Process

1. Select large diameter logs, cut wood with specifications of features and intercept their length2. Remove the peel3. According to the log characteristics, trim and square logs off4. Place logs into the digester tank in order to soften wood5. Put logs into the chipping machine6. Dry sliced wood and ensure water content of about 8% -10 %7. Cut the side of sliced wood off and stack together with different specifications8. Pack veneer by tightening its perimeter just for in case of end breakage occurs during transportation

Get natural materials Remove the peel Squared off log Digesting Slicing

Packing Cutting Drying

96

Get natural materials Remove the peel Squared off log Digesting Slicing

Packing Cutting Drying

97


C2.2 Technic: Prototype 1

98

1

Wood as a crucial building material has features of light weight, high strength, good performance and great processing characteristics so that it is favored and popular in making furniture, building framework and some craft works. Structure

that is based on wood is green, ecological, environmental-friendly, renewable and other features. That is main reason why I decide using wood as river trap. Even though it will be eroded in the river, check workability of river trap regularly just for in case that rotting will affect water quality. According to different force conditions, the connection types should be different. Some of them are direct force transmission through different connecting members while some of them is transmitting forces via fittings such as tooth connections, pin connections and connected by metal connectors1.

In this prototype that I tested and explored, it is very suitable for something immersing in the river as there is no exposed joints. Therefore, less possibility of erosion of iron and fastening two pieces of wood together can avoid using bolts.

1 Mackey, Introduction of Timber Connector (12 June 2015), <http://www.mackay.co.uk/>.


C2.2 Technic: Prototype 2

100

This prototype is showing the feasibility of concealed dowels. The difficulty of making concealed dowels is harder than the face-to-face dowels, which requires combination of each two pieces of wood must be seamless;

otherwise the overall structure will not be stable and compressible.

In this case, if the connection between two wood pieces has cracks, the water will go into the structure which means wood will be eroded faster than it should be. By using concealed dowels, the overall appearance of river trap will not be affected as the whole structure will keep smooth feeling of materials. In this case, it is able to respond my initial brief which is the river trap should be part of landscape.

101

This prototype is testing the tolerance of bolts and tensile possibility of wood. As the connector of bolts is flexible connection, so when floating velocity of water turns into high speed, it would have some tolerances. In

this case, less possibility of joints or structure can be damaged. The Grid Shell also uses this connecting method to obtain maximal tension and compression of timber.

This type of connection requires two layers of timber and totally four layers of timber need to be connected by bolts. However, bolts have to be immersed in the river, the material of bolts is supposed to be steel with purpose of reducing possibility of erosion.

102

Part C3.0

Final Model

Part C3.1

Types and Size of River Trap

104

Name: ‘Lubber’Size: LargeSize of Max Grid and Min Grid: 100mm, 50mmDimension: Length 2000mm Opening Radius 1200mmFunction:As it has big ‘body’, it mainly collects large rubbish such as clothes etc.

105

Name: ‘Mediumer’Size: MediumSize of Max Grid and Min Grid: 80mm, 50mmDimension: Length 1500mm Opening Radius 800mmFunction:It is able to collect all rubbish except really large ones.

Name: ‘Dwarf’Size: SmallSize of Max Grid and Min Circle: 50mm, 20mmDimension: Length 500mm Opening Radius 300mmFunction:It is small but light. It still can go through very narrow parts of Merri Creek. Its main job is to collect plastic bottles. Most importantly, it has glowstick around so in the night, it will be a special landscape on the river.

106

Part C3.1

How River Trap Works

107

As different and various density of pollutants, they could immerse, semi-floating or fully floating in Merri Creek. When the river traps are semi-floating over the creek, it means it still is able to collect more pollutants

while if its bottom moves down to a lower level, it means river traps are almost full, but it does not mean it cannot collect pollutants. However, only semi-floating or even floating can be collected as they have smaller density and density is smaller than water.

Two dynamic covers are over the bridges in order to place and collect river traps. The previous bridge is located higher level than the back bridge. Therefore, the previous cover over the bridge is for placing river trap, and when the level of water in Merri Creek is getting higher, it will be released automatically and randomly. River traps are going to float in the Merri Creek to collect floating pollutants. During this moving process, it would be a part of landscape. As more pollutants river traps collect, its bottom will move to a lower level than its initial status. Therefore, the pollutants such as rubbish would not be seen from banks of Merri Creek, which means it will not affect its landscape function.

When river traps move to the lower water level, there is another cover (the back one) to collect them up. Radius of holes in the cover is relatively small. As what I designed for river traps, the opening is the largest part of overall river traps while the bottom is smaller than the opening and slender waist. In this case, when river traps float down to the back bridge, they will be held. If the river traps does not collect enough pollutants, they still have a stable place to collect.

The back bridge is last bridge within Merri Creek, which mean it is the last chance to prevent pollutants going into Yarra River to degrade water quality. What’s more, the back bridge is located at very convenient transporting place which means all the rubbish that river traps collect can be easily deliveried to urban rubbish treating stations.

Part C3.2

Fabrication Process

108

1

2

3

4

Unroll Surfaces and make tabs in Grasshopper

How these pieces work together How these pieces stick together

How these pieces stick together

109

As the pattern that I designed has lots of grids and each gird has different sizes, so the fabrication

would be hard to make. First of all, I layered all the lattice structural strips in 4 main templates and marked them in different colours in order to easily recognize when I do the model-making later. I unrolled all the surfaces and made tabs in Grasshopper which saved plenty of time to each pieces individually.

1 millimeter thickness of box board is chosen to make model. As box board is workable with glue to stick them together, so everything has to be done before fabrication is about marking each pieces; otherwise, it is going to be hard to find out which pieces belong to this template and where it is going to be connected with.

Therefore, when I get big sheets from Fablab, every piece has their own name on it. Through doing this huge amount of fabricating works, this experience fully shows me how conceptual idea can generally realize in the real world. It also shows that more possibilities that architects can make through using 3D printing and laser cutter.

110

Part C4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes

Design Statement

The proposal of this river trap is made up of a timber lattice structure incorporated with the purpose of being part of landscape. It is inspired by the original river trap in the Merri Creek, but obviously it does not

trap pollutants efficiently. Additionally, Merri Creek Management Committee observational data regarding content of pollutants over Merris shocked me. That is why I am intent to design something is able to improve water quality of Meeri Creek. My design proposal is not only acting as pollutants trap, but also aimed to fully raise residents or citizen awareness of sustainability and water protection. It will work efficiently through the river traps floating over the creek. Canton Tower inspired me to design stable lattice structure, no matter for previous Vertical Garden or now River Trap; in addition, Grid Shell gave me basic knowledge about using minimal material to create maximal architectural project and how to connect two pieces of timber.

Completion of this whole project is based on computation approach that is able to bring more possible outcomes and expand design potential including material selection, joints connections, fabrications and shape-controlling and determining. All in all, this design proposal is not an architectural result, but also aims to perform some functions for cleaning Merri Creek. Probably this kind of river trap cannot greatly improve water quality of Merri Creek and even probably not the pollutants can be collected, but when they are floating over the river, it will raise citizen awareness of trying to make some contributions to improving Merri Creek.

This project is proposed to be built near the junction between Yarra River and Merri Creek. Basically, the floating velocity of water near junction is high and blocking pollutants to avoid degrade water quality of Yarra River is significant. Cleaners will clean them up and then put them in the higher water lever again when ‘cages’ (river traps) collect enough rubbish. Place that cleaners can clean rubbish has small car parking nearby and it is closed to drive through highway. Hence, pollutants can be conveniently transported to urban rubbish treating station.

111

Part C4

Learning Objectives and Outcomes

I have to admit that I learnt a lot from Architectural Design Studio: Air. It is not about skills of Grasshopper improved or even computational design thinking acquainted, but also includes the way of understanding and implying

parametric design and how to generate and explore further possibilities of design.

Integrating conceptual design ideas with real site conditions is achieved by further developing prototypes with the analyzing and researching date and statement. In this case, I clearly know about what kind of problems that I need to solve and what does the successful river trap look like. In this stage by using computational tools, I successfully obtain optimum efficiency in technology functionally, at the same time, preserving its design aesthetic to its best.

With purpose of solving problem regarding water pollution, computational techniques helped me a lot to have analysis and prototypes. Beginning from Grid Shell to Canton Tower, I underwent several bottlenecks. Trying to integrate design of river trap and minimal surface was failed and trying to associate bridges with river trap was failed. Fortunately, after many hardships and struggles, I managed to breakthrough and produce something new but relevant with precedents. Grid Shell connecting structure and lattice structure of Canton Tower is a stepping stone, new exploration was generated by re-looking at reverse engineering of Canton Tower.

My horizon was expanded by doing Studio Air. It lets me what is real charming of architecture. Through completing this project, even though someone told me my idea is crazy and I felt discouraged at times for not having logical and innovative idea. I still want to thank everything I have been through. It enriched my knowledge about minimal surface, pattern design and advantages of timber. Grasshopper and Rhino gave me different and various design possibilities that I can after while Photoshop and Illustrator gave me super amazing performance of final project and interesting diagrams.

112

Part C4.1 Learning Objectives and Outcomes

Further Development

This is the further development of my design proposal in respond to the feedback from the final crit.

To reconsider the design should be as a part of landscape and the functionality is trapping rubbish, more prototypes regarding pattern design should be tested in order to have best outcomes. As my feedback reflects, river trap with two structural layers would be a better choice due to the requirements of function and aesthetics. Therefore, I am thinking the outer layer should be the existing structure while adding new inner structural layer. In this case, it ensures more pollutants can be collected and efficiently upgrade water quality.

Beyond reconsidering the aspect of being part of landscape and its function, the better method of connection also needs to be considered. With having another structural layer, additional connectors have to be installed between offseted members, which are installed in vertical orientations. Through doing this, when river traps are getting full and the bottom is getting to move down to the lower water level, less erodible possibility may occur to joints.

113

Basic structure of river trape Add inner structure with same slenderness ratio Two layers of structure

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> [accessed 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 Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5-25.

Archdaily, ICD-ITKE Research Pavilion 2013-14 (8 July 2014) <http://www.arch-daily.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.arc-space.com/features/shao-weiping/phoenix-media-center/> [assessed on 15 March 2015].

Part A.3Brady Peters, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, The Build-ing 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-knowledge-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

114

Part B1: Evolo, Structural Geodesics Skyscraper in Armenia (2015) <http://www.evolo.us/architecture/structural-geodesics-skyscraper-in-armenia/> [accessed 25 April 2015].

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

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/> [ac-cessed 20 April 2015].

Smart Geometry, Grid Shell (2015) <http://smartgeometry.org/in-dex.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=134:gridshell-digital-tectonics&catid=44&Itemid=149> [accessed 17 April 2015].

T-Splines, Organic Architecture (8 July 2008), <http://www.tsplines.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=28992> [accessed 12 May 2015].

Part B3.0Arch Daily, Canton Tower Information (19 November 2010), <http://www.archdaily.com/89849/canton-tower-information-based-architecture/> [accessed 28 April 2015].

Detail-Online, Canton Tower in Guangzhou (November 2010), <http://www.detail-online.com/inspiration/canton-tower-in-guangzhou-103502.html> [accessed 26 April 2015].

Part B5.0Grasshopper 3D, Elastic Form Finding (17 November 2012), <http://www.grass-hopper3d.com/forum/topics/elastic-form-finding> [accessed 7 May 2015].

Min-Fu Hsu, Rotational performance of traditional butted timber joints with gap (12 September 2015) <http://proj.ncku.edu.tw/research/articles/e/20080912/2.html> [accessed 19 April 2015].

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

115

116

Part C1.0Alarmy, A Little River Trap in London (2015), <http://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-a-litter-trap-on-the-river-thames-london-uk-48947838.html> [assessed on 25 May 2015].

Anacostia river Keeper, Traditional River Trap (2015), <http://www.anacostiariver-keeper.org/updates/ddoe-anacostia-riverkeeper-groundworks-anacostia-dc-storm-water-sytems-install-and-maintain-0> [assessed on 26 May 2015].

Christoph Hermann, Mutant Museum Growth (2015), <https://www.flickr.com/pho-tos/christoph-hermann/6949775379/> [assessed on 7 June 2015].

Melbourne daily, Merri Creek (3 June 2015), <http://melbournedaily.blogspot.com.au/2014/07/merri-creek-brunswick.html> [assessed on 3 June 2015].

Merri Creek Management Committee, Merri Creek and Environs Strategy Chapter 3.2 - Water Quality and Stream Health (2015), <http://www.mcmc.org.au> [as-sessed on 30 May 2015].

Karsten Schmidt, Voxel Posse (6 June 2015) <https://www.flickr.com/photos/toxi/5328120847/sizes/l> [assessed on 6 June 2015].

Naihua Yuan, Plan Selection of Trashing Purge Large Pumping Station (Mechanical Press: Beijing), pp. 20-35 (p.22).

Plan Melbourne, Government of Plan Melbourne (2015) <http://www.planmel-bourne.vic.gov.au> [assessed on 27 May 2015].

Rocky Mountain Land Liabrary, Traditional River Trap (2015), <https://landlibrary.wordpress.com/2010/05/07/cedar-the-tree-of-life/> [assessed on 26 May 2015].

Studio Jonas Coersmeier, Nanotectonica (2015), <https://www.flickr.com/photos/pixelprobe/3746111590/> [assessed on 4 June 2015].

Trip Advisor, Merri Creek (2015), <http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Attraction_Re-view-g2065563-d1307682-Reviews-Merri_Creek_Trail-Clifton_Hill_Yarra_Greater_Melbourne_Victoria.html> [assessed on 3 June 2015].

WikiMedia, River Thames Rubbish Trap in London (2015), <http://commons.wikime-dia.org/wiki/File:River_Thames_Rubbish_Trap,_London_-_Dec_2008.jpg> [as-sessed on 27 May 2015].

Wikipedia, Merri Creek bird view (2015), <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merri_Creek> [assessed on 3 June 2015].

117

Part C2.0Mackey, Introduction of Timber Connector (2015), <http://www.mackay.co.uk/> [as-sessed on 2 June 2015].

Matsys Design, Voronoi Morphologies (2015), <http://matsysdesign.com/2009/06/18/voronoi-morphologies> [assessed on 13 June 2015].

Win Shine Wood, Flow works of wood processing (2015), <http://www.winshine-wood.com/sales.aspx> [assessed on 13 June 2015].

Part C4.0Arci 211, Voronoi diagrams (2015), <http://arci211groupa.blogspot.com.au/2012_04_01_archive.html> [assessed on 13 Jun2 2015].

Zhu Long, Evolo Competition (2015), <http://down6.zhulong.com/tech/detail-prof845296JZ.htm> [assessed on 11 June, 2015].

nan ma(nancy)_611953_final_journal

Documents