Ian GrohsgalWorks

Cont

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4 Landscape

3 Representation

1 Biomorphism

2 Space

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BiomorphismUrban Intervention

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Inspired by both the complexity of the Big Brown Bat’s (Eptesicus fuscus’s) wings as well as their similarity to our own hands, the above study ex-amines the bat’s phalanges during flight. In the four snapshots of flight shown above from both the side and the front perspectives, each of the bat’s phalanges (highlighted in red) bend and flex depending on the movement while at the same time retain their slightly curved and tapered geometry.

Studying the Bat in Motion

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1/8 in. x 1/4 in. Neodyni-um MagnetsSmaller width magnets to con-nect phalanges together.

1/4 in. x 1/4 in. Neodyni-um MagnetsUsed a larger width to provide good connection at the joints.

Laser Cut MDF.Cut out in circular cross-sec-tions to represent the geomet-ricty of the bat phalange

Steel RodSingle straight steel rod provides a central supporting axis for the MDF cross-sections.

Aluminum RodSix aluminum rods link the the MDF cross-sections to create the geometry of the analogue.

Analogical Basis for Biomorphic Structure

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AnalogueFollowing the preceding visual studies surrounding the motion of the bat’s phalanges, the proceeding analogue then focused on the geometry and the movement of the bat’s phalanges during its flight. The images and diagrams above indicate the analogue’s extension and radius at the joints, the tapering geometry, and the rod and cross-section construction that was used to represent the phalanges as well as the extents of their movements.

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Biomorphic StructurePushing the ideas developed while designing the analogue further, the above biomorphic structure explores the larger-scale architectural poential of the earlier design in an urban intervention. Using Skirkanich Courtyard at the Univeristy of Pennsylvania as the intended site, the analgue was then transformed into the main strutural supports for a catalievered Roman canopy that serves as a shelter and shading device that facilitates thru foot traffic.

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Mediation PlatformSpace

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Constraints

Contraints, whether self-imposed or dictated by necessity, serve as an essential basis for architecture. This project seeks to design a space in which two people can comfortably rest and work while operating within certain restraints dealing with the materials used, the design influence studied, and how inhab-itants interact with the space. This project was designed using rods as the material, a natural form as the principal influence, and standing as the position.

Synthesizing Constraints

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Translating Constraints into DesignFrom the mandated constaints, a space was created utilizing both flexible and rigid rods in order to accomodate two people interested in both rest-ing and working. The cornerstone of the design stems from the idea of the birds nest providing both shelter and a sweeping 360 degree view of its surroundings. This design does just that—it provides an enclosure for the individuals when resting and an expansive workplace when studying.

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The ModelThe design consists of 64 flexible rods that are connected with aircraft-grade steel cable to a turnable crank within the cylindrical base. The crank then allows for the space to easily convert between a space conducive to either resting or working at the users’ conviencence.

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RepresentationThe Hand

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Measuring and Representing the HandThis project focused on recording and representing a selected hand position. Using the body measurement tool (bottom left) made of laser cut MDF and 1/8” x 1/8” x 6” balsa wood strips, the heights of various points on the hand were measured. The points were translated into Rhino, and the original was edited to translate visually the ideas of light and shadow through triangulation. The final model was fabricated by laser cutting Bristol board and folding it into the final model.

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LandscapeBeach Stone Patio

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Creating a Gathering PlaceCreated space serves an important role in our interaction with our environment. I strive to design spaces that wiill serve as gathering points to bring people togehter. Designed and constructed on the northeast side of a home in Rhode Island,the above patio serves as a landscape that brings people together around the focal point, the outdoor grill. This stone patio attests to my dedication to create spaces for people in their worlds.

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