zhuang xinyun 636710 studio air journal

STUDIO AIR 2015, SEMESTER 1, Studio 12 Philip Belesky

Xinyun Zhuang

Table of Contents

1 Introduction

2 Part A

A.1 Design Futuring

A.2 Design Computation

A.3 Composition and Generation

A.4 Conclusion

A.5 Learning Outcome

A.6 Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches

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Part B

B.1 Research Field----Geometry

B.2 Case Study 1.0

B.3 Reverse Enginering

B.4 Techniques: Development

B.5 Techniques: Prototype

B.6 Techniques:: Proposal

B.7 Learning Outcome

B.8 Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches

B.9 Reference

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‘The straight line be-longs to men, the curved one to God’

-----------Antoni Gaudí

An architecture student in the University of Melbourne

comes from Guangzhou, China

have lived in Melbourne 5 years

likes blue, all different kinds of blue

admires symmetry while loves fluidity as well

A.1 Design Futuring When desigining, messge of attitude

of sustainability and proposal of future are clearly sent, which

we should all keep in mind.

PART A

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Figure 1 Hannover Expo Japan Pavilion, ArchiExpo

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Top: Figure 2 paper tube frame in construction, Details on Line

bottom:

Left: Figure 3 composition of the structure , Details on Line

Middle: Figure 4 structural frame and textile external layer, Designboom

Right: Figure 5 Junction detail, Details on Line

Hannover Expo Japan PavilionDesigned by Frei Otto and Shigeru Ban, the Janpan Pavillion in Expo 2000 has been quite an example of collaboration between advance technology and foreseeing vision of material uses. Corresponding to the theme of Expo 2000, which was ‘environment‘, architects have both contributed valuable yet controversial means to building industry, further influencing people’s way of thinking and living. Shigeru Ban emphasizes the possibility of using recycle materials, such as the paper tubes, to construct structural system, which has challenged such firm stereotype that paper is to fragile and weak to support anything loads and provided such influential and strong evidence and argument to prove his ideas.1 Moreover, there are not only the choice of material but also the connections and junctions of all elements presenting architects’ statement. Wooden splices and fabric tape were used to join different components of the structural frame together without using any other metal junction, which were used to prove further that recycle paper tube structure could maintain such strong capacity in bearing different loads as well as fulfil the ‘dream’ of easy and fast construction process without using materials consisting of large amount of embodied energy.2

Both Otto and Ban have their goal to contribute in improving the poor’s living environment through architecture, which is quite evident in this pavilion as they have created a new type of lightweight architecture using paper tube structure and fireproof paper covering to offer solution to building shelter for the poor.3 Because it is lightweight, relatively fast and cheap to construct as well as reusable, which is also influential in leading the design future trend of designing with sustainability.

1 Designboom, ‘Japan Pavilion, EXPO 2000, Hannover, Germany’, Designboom.

com, 2000 <http://www.designboom.com/history/ban_expo.html>

2 3 Clarewashinton, ‘Shigeru Ban: Building With Paper - Japan Pavilion, Expo 2000’, MArch2, 2012 <https://

clarewashington.wordpress.com/2012/12/10/shigeru-ban-building-with-paper-japan-pavilion-expo-2000/>

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Figure 6 Burj Khalifa within its landscape, Genside

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Figure 7 Burj Khalifa’s height comparing to other skyscrapers , Genside

Burj Khalifa

Being famous for world’s highest man-made structure , the Khalifa tower has a total height of 829.8m, which is designed by Adrain Smith.1 Although a series of milestones and world records achieved thorough the designing and construction process, Khalifa tower has been questioned its meaning and influence behind the glory. And it does contain certain extent to inefficiency in energy and building resource. For instance, the rationale of containing 46 maintenance levels in the spire without being able to use for either residential or commercial needs to be justified.2 More than 4,000 tones of structural steel were used to construct the tower and 26,000 glass panels were used in the exterior cladding.3 These shocking numbers is reflecting the amount of embodied energy used as well as our exploitation of the scarce resource. Our recent leap in building technology is not meant to be abused to create buildings like trophy to show off. Giving the origin incentive to build such a enormous tower that to create both cultural and economic image of Dubai, it actually sends a negative message to our society while most of us has tried so hard to achieve sustainability.

1 2 3 Burjkhalifa.ae, ‘The Tower | Facts & Figures’, 2015 <http://

www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/thetower/factsfigures.aspx>

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A.2 Design Computation

During the last decade, supported by contemporary evolution of digital techniques architecture industry has got greater involved

in computational design techniques. Following paragraph will discuss the privileges the industry has benefited from integrating computation into

design via analysis of two precedent projects.

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Figure 8 Coca-Cola Place, Daubney

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Figure 9 Coca-Cola Place, Daubney

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Figure 10 Facade of Coca-Cola Place, Daubney

Precedent Project 1 Coca-Cola Place Since Renaissance, architects have distinguished their role in the process of designing and constructions from craftsmen or builders which urged them to create some methods to allow them to communicate with each other. It is the reason why scale drawings and model was invented and have been used in present industry.1 Computation developed in last decade, architecture industry has benefited from integrating computational techniques, which has enabled architects to create opportunities in design process, fabrication and construction.2

Current trend of using more and more computational softwares to equip them to produce more efficient scale drawings and models is one of the convincing proof. And building information modelling is a digital tool that not only combines the scale drawing and model into one digital file but also creates opportunity of involving as much as people into the design process and as early as possible.

This Australia’s first completed building information modelling high-rise in Sydney, New South Wales is designed by architect Rice Daubney and built by Thiess.3 The process from designing to construction of the building has completed fully in building information modelling, which means the opportunity of communication among architects, structural engineers, civil engineers, contractors, builders,managers and etc. has been magnified.4 In addition, efficiency of the communication can also be improved comparing to traditional scale drawings as a 1:1 scale digital 3D model contains so much more details, assisting to

1 Kalay, Yehuda E. (2004). Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and

Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press), pp. 7-8

2 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building

of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 10

3 4 Graphisoft, ‘Australia’S 1St Completed Building Information Modelling

(BIM) High Rise Wins More Awards’, ArchDaily, 2011 <http://www.

archdaily.com/139868/australia%E2%80%99s-1st-completed-building-

information-modelling-bim-high-rise-wins-more-awards/>

prevent undesirable circumstances from happening after actual construction starts. Furthermore, involving engineers into designing process could contribute into achieving sustainability as applying more efficient design schemes such as façades, structures and services with their professional knowledge.5 Computational softwares have enabled it happen for providing relatively reliable information from imitation.

As discussed in Theories of Digital in Architecture, computational techniques like building information modelling enable architects to model the structure of material system as tectonic system, which as promoted material design to become ‘an integral part of digital architecture design process’.6

Moreover, more responsive design can be generated as computational simulation tools develops as allowing architects to analyse design options corresponding to the project brief, goals and constraints during the evaluation in design process.7

Finally, some may argue that spending such effort in producing such large scale and detail digital 3D model would be too time consuming and difficult to apply in building industry. However implementing BIM for a wide range of ‘players’ in the industry would be more likely to become efficient approach if people would dare to step forward and embrace the change by adopting this new process.8 And by the time design and construction professionals can move fluidly from ‘virtual to the actual’ will be likely to push the industry forward to stimulate digital revolution in the industry.9

5 8 9 Case, ‘Practice 2.0: BIM Myths And Building Truths’, ArchDaily, 2011 <http://

www.archdaily.com/167109/practice-2-0-bim-myths-and-building-truths/>

6 Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds (2014). Theories of the

Digital in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge), pp. 5-6

7 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of

Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 13

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Figure 11 Interior of Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Studio Fuksas

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Figure 12 Interior of Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Studio Fuksas

Figure 13 Terminal building 3 of Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Studio Fuksas

Precedent Project 2 Shenzhen Bao’an International AirportComputation has evolved not only to define a digital continuum from design to construction, but also to become a medium that supports a continuous logic of design thinking and making. Computational approaches have been beyond presentation or representation.1 In fact, morphogenesis, parametric design and scripting have contributed into developing a new paradigm of design thinking, supporting by Burry’s statement of ‘scripting as a driving force for 21st century architectural thinking’.2

By accepting and applying computation into design thinking, architects now are likely to more easily accumulate their knowledge of definition and formalization of biomimetic principles of design which is derived from design principles of nature. It has been something that architects has spent years on searching approaches, such as Gaudí.3

As well as being inspired by nature,

1 Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds

(2014). ‘Theories of the Digital in Architecture’

(London; New York: Routledge), pp. 1

2 Burry, Mark(2011), ‘Scripting Cultures:Architectural

Design and Programming’, AD primer,

John Wiley and Sons, West Sussex, UK

3 Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds

Architects Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas from Studio Fuksas has transferred the image of a manta ray, a kind of fish that breathes and changes its own shape, into understanding of algorithm thinking and scripting design technology, creating this large scale computational architecture.4 The profile of the roofing is specially considered corresponding to the variation in height alluding to the natural landscape.5 Assisted by computational technology associating materialization and fabrication, architects could benefit from acquiring countless amounts of achievable geometries than any time in the history.

Moreover, the most important privilege of engaging contemporary computational design techniques is the exposure to countless opportunities of conceivable geometries. By creating an ‘unambiguous, precise, relative simple operation’ script, the computer could generate hundreds and thousands of output corresponding to different input, which is what algorithm is capable

(2014). ‘Theories of the Digital in Architecture’

(London; New York: Routledge), pp. 6

4 5 7 ArchiDaily, ‘Shenzhen Bao’An International Airport

/ Studio Fuksas’, ArchDaily, 2014 <http://www.archdaily.

com/472197/shenzhen-bao-an-international-airport-

studio-fuksas/> [accessed 19 March 2015].

of.6 Among all these output, only such small proportion could be imagined beforehand while computation technology could generates within such short period of time and hardly any obstacles. Take the profile of the ceiling in Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport as example, the rhythm created by the graduation of size and position of opening is so impressive that it would hard to believe it purely come from human imagination without assistance of computation.

In addition, efficiency to generate preferable design options could be increased when engaging computation technology into design process. The example of the opening in the ceiling profile would be convincing enough to support the conclusion. Sizing, positioning and materials of openings generated by parametric design technology could take up architects and engineers’ days and nights’ effort without insurance of accuracy. Not to mention, the double skin roof allows natural light in to create comfortable internal environment and create light effects, which determines the importance of accuracy of the positioning and sizing of the openings.7

At last, computation technology could help architects to achieve

6 Definition of ‘Algorithm’ in Wilson, Robert A. and

Frank C. Keil, eds (1999). The MIT Encyclopedia of the

Cognitive Sciences (London: MIT Press), pp. 11, 12

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A.3 Composition and Generation The architectural industry has reacted differently to the big shifting from traditional designing methods ‘composition’ to ‘generation’.

Featuring algorithmic thinking, parametric modelling and scripting culture, there are advantages and shortcomings of this new design

methods. However, it has not yet been embraced to achieve full potential with the positive prospect of development in architectural

field. Following will discuss in detail along with two precedent projects.

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Figure 14 HASSELL and Herzog & de Meuron’s proposal of Flinders Street Station, HASSELL + Herzog & de Meuron

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Figure 15 Platform, HASSELL + Herzog & de Meuron

Figure 16 East concourse, HASSELL + Herzog & de Meuron

Precedent Project 1 The Flinders Street Station Winning ProposalDesigned by architects HASSELL and Herzog & de Meuron for the Flinders Street Design Competition, It is clear that architects have tried not only delivering the ‘glory of the first 19th century design for the station’, but also derived inspiration from contemporary Melbourne city’s urban fabric, such as the site’s location, and linear nature; the river and city edge, rail, public and river-based operations as well as the station’s place within the city fabric and public realm, along with special consideration of social and cultural roles of the station.1

From architectural practise of new design method of ‘generation’, their attempt is also relatively distinguishing in Australia. The fluidity of gradual transition of openings on the roof is symbolic of scripting and parametric design techniques. It is one of the architectural practise

1 Alison Furuto, ‘The Flinders Street Station Winning Proposal / HASSELL +

Herzog & De Meuron’, ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/413042/the-

flinders-street-station-shortlisted-proposal-hassell-herzog-and-de-meuron/>

in trend that architects ‘generate and explore architectural spaces and concepts through the writing and modifying of algorithms that relate to element placement, element configuration and the relationships between elements’.2

It is also clear that the distance of current acceptance and computational design methods’ full potential in the industry, not to mention public’s few acknowledgement. In this case, although in use of parametric modelling, architects have chosen relatively traditional structural system like linear columns in the platform, which could have been integrated with tectonic models to create more revolutionary structural system such as curvilinear system that could be ‘grown’ from profile. It shows us the limitation of current practise, reflecting architects’ cautiousness about challenging public’s inherent knowledge as well as clients’ attitude. In this case, the parametric design could be eye-catching from the beginning, however it would be more likely to faint as some sort of decoration instead of the building itself.

2 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of

Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 11

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Figure 17 Heydar Aliyev Center, Hufton + Crow

‘The straight line belongs to men, the curved one to God’

-----------Antoni Gaudí

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Figure 18 Interior, Iwan Baan

Precedent Project 2 Heydar Aliyev CenterOn the other hand, pioneers like Zaha Hadid have stepped forward to explore the potential of generative design approaches with computational design techniques. Understanding the logic of algorithmic thinking is fundamental to architectural practise of generative design method. It is similar to what we have learnt from nature that the principle behind create its possibility.

By following and adapting parametric modelling and scripting culture, Zaha Hadid has created this art centre, which praised the fluidity of geometry, structure and materiality as well as challenged to redefine relationships among spaces. Generative design methods are evident in every detail. The building skin is so continuous that it appears homogeneous as well as the interior space’s continuous calligraphic and ornamental ceiling patterns propose seamless relationships between floor and wall, wall to ceiling. 1 Yet it would be difficult to distinguish them apart as they emerge into a wholly continuum which reveals the nature of generative design method with computation design techniques. The graduation of some sort of ‘growing’ gesture fulfil the space which implies the direction of architectural future practise.

And it is not yet the full potential that generative design methods could achieve. Most importantly, by the use of generative design methods it become possible to create digital continuum from form generation, performance, morphogenesis, tectonic, materiality, fabrication to construction.2

1 ArchiDaily, ‘Heydar Aliyev Center / Zaha Hadid Architects’,

ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-

center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 19 March 2015].

2 Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds (2014). Theories of the Digital

Hadid has showed us examples of integrating generative method into materiality and mechanical structural system. There are two collaborating systems in Heydar Aliyev Centert: a concrete structure combined with a space frame system. In order to achieve large-scale column-free spaces, vertical structural elements are absorbed by the envelope and curtain wall system, which was generated by the parametric modelling and scripting.3 Unconventional structural solutions were specially designed and introduced, such as the curved ‘boot columns’ to achieve the inverse peel of the surface from the ground to the West of the building, which showed us insights of generative design methods’ potential relating to not just deign field but also structural engineering.4

Moreover, there is primary incentive for the industry to embrace more of the generative design method, which is increased efficiency. The possible amount of resources such as construction time being saved could contribute to driving the improvement of architectural industry and thus sustainability in the coming future. In this case, the space frame system enabled the construction of a free-form structure and saved time and money throughout the construction process.

in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge), pp. 5-6

3 4 ArchiDaily, ‘Heydar Aliyev Center / Zaha Hadid Architects’,

ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-

center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 19 March 2015].

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Figure 19, Theatre, Hélène Binet

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A.4 Conclusion

Digital development in architectural industry has gone beyond simple documentation and moved forward in creating digital continuum from form generation, performance, morphogenesis, tectonics, materialization, fabrication and construction, enhancing efficiency in the whole industry.

Featuring algorithmic thinking parametric modelling and scripting culture, computation design has offered varieties of opportunities of generating much more conceivable and achievable geometries as well as creating more responsive design options to both people and environment.

In last, when architects design, sustainability should be one of the ultimate and fundamental goals and rules as if current designing impacting the future.

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‘When Architects have sufficient understanding of algorithmic con-cepts, when we no longer need to discuss the digital as something different, then computation can become a true method for archi-tecture.’

-----------Peter Brady

A.5 Learning Outcome

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It is surprisingly fulfilling after these three weeks’ studies that I have understood

the reason why we started to be trained to think algorithmically and practised

computational design tool like grasshopper, which is challenging yet full of wonders.

By researching precedent projects, I have been inspired by the practise undertaken by different architects around the world,

which has contributed such effort to drive the architectural industry to embrace the

shifting to generative design method. From not knowing what algorithm means

to current stage of cannot wait to have a go at generating my own design

outcome from applying computational design approaches, it has only been three weeks, which has offered us opportunity to

explore the design future in architecture.

‘Scripting as a driving force for 21st cen-tury architectural thinking’

----------Burry Mark

A.6 Appendix-Algorithm Sketches

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The reason why I choose this algorithmic sketch is that by adding random variable into the script, grasshopper offers us a great deal of opportunities to generate potential geometry while controlling via data input.

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Reference Images:

Archiexpo, 2015 <http://trends.archiexpo.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/japan-pavilion-shigeru-ban.jpg> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Architectureanddesign.com, 2015 <http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/the-book/projects/large-commercial/coca-cola-place-formerly-ark> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Canadinarchitects, 2015 <http://www.canadianarchitect.com/asf/principles_of_enclosure/environmental_mediation/images/fabric.jpg> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Courtesy of Studio Fuksas, 2015 <http://www.archdaily.com/472197/shenzhen-bao-an-international-airport-studio-fuksas/> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Designboom, 2015 <http://www.designboom.com/history/ban/e2.jpg> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Detailsonline, 2015 <http://www.detail-online.com/inspiration/japanese-pavilion-at-the-expo-in-hanover-106867.html> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Detailsonsine, 2015 <http://detail-online.com/inspiration/sites/inspiration_detail_de/uploads/imagesResized/projects/780_2013082910144322a4cf2fa6e39041b34267ed3cac93320406c402.jpg> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Gentside, 2015 <http://img0.gtsstatic.com/wallpapers/68cdff10286a1b212a47242ef9660768_large.jpeg> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Gentside, Http://Img0.Gtsstatic.Com/Wallpapers/F16c4adc9ca15417c6137ffdaff8388e_Large.Jpeg, 2015

Hélène Binet, 2015 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Hufton + Crow, 2015 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Iwan Baan, 2015 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 20 March 2015]

Articles:

Alison Furuto, ‘The Flinders Street Station Winning Proposal / HASSELL + Herzog & De Meuron’, ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/413042/the-flinders-street-station-shortlisted-proposal-hassell-herzog-and-de-meuron/>

ArchiDaily, ‘Heydar Aliyev Center / Zaha Hadid Architects’, ArchDaily, 2013 <http://www.archdaily.com/448774/heydar-aliyev-center-zaha-hadid-architects/> [accessed 19 March 2015].

ArchiDaily, ‘Shenzhen Bao’An International Airport / Studio Fuksas’, ArchDaily, 2014 <http://www.archdaily.com/472197/shenzhen-bao-an-international-airport-studio-fuksas/> [accessed 19 March 2015].

Burjkhalifa.ae, ‘The Tower | Facts & Figures’, 2015 <http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/thetower/factsfigures.aspx>

Case, ‘Practice 2.0: BIM Myths And Building Truths’, ArchDaily, 2011 <http://www.archdaily.com/167109/practice-2-0-bim-myths-and-building-truths/>

Burry, Mark(2011), ‘Scripting Cultures:Architectural Design and Programming’, AD primer, John Wiley and Sons, West Sussex, UK

Clarewashinton, ‘Shigeru Ban: Building With Paper - Japan Pavilion, Expo 2000’, MArch2, 2012 <https://clarewashington.wordpress.com/2012/12/10/shigeru-ban-building-with-paper-japan-pavilion-expo-2000/>

Designboom, ‘Japan Pavilion, EXPO 2000, Hannover, Germany’, Designboom.com, 2000 http://www.designboom.com/history/ban_expo.html

Definition of ‘Algorithm’ in Wilson, Robert A. and Frank C. Keil, eds (1999). The MIT Encyclopedia of the Cognitive Sciences (London: MIT Press), pp. 11-12

Graphisoft, ‘Australia’S 1St Completed Building Information Modelling (BIM) High Rise Wins More Awards’, ArchDaily, 2011 <http://www.archdaily.com/139868/australia%E2%80%99s-1st-completed-building-information-modelling-bim-high-rise-wins-more-awards/>

Kalay, Yehuda E. (2004). Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press), pp. 7-8

Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds (2014). Theories of the Digital in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge), pp. 1-6

Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 10-13

B.1 Research Field PART B

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Geometry

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Research Field: Geometry

Choosing geometry as my starting point to explore parametric design and modelling is a very potential move as it focuses on expanding the existing field of geometry in architecture while aiming to break through the existing boundary with assistance of information based design and algorithmic thinking.

Form finding process has been an important step in design procedure, which is challenge for every architects as well as engineers. And this research field can lead to discourse of relationship between geometry and structure, which would be my focus area while doing case studies.

The grid shell structure designed in SG2012 is a very well presented precedent to explore the close relationship. And it shows the possibility to create a building whose

geometry form is its structural system.

It means by parametric design approach, the idea of combining geometry and structure has come to be achieved. In short words, a building would no longer need a structural system to transfer all dead and live loads it carries to foundation, instead, it is the geometry form functions both, providing space and transfer loads. It could be seen as one of the future leading trend in the industry from my perspective as it could generate so much more possibilty to interior space without the interruption from structural elements.

It forms my foundation of my technique by encouraging my consideration on both geometry exploration and structural capacity.

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SG2012 GRIDSHELLB.2 CASE STUDY 1.0

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SG2012 GRIDSHELL

This project is a workshop held ar SmartGeometry 2012, which focused on the design and construction of a wooden gridshell using only straight wood members. They were bent along geodesic lines on a relaxed surface. The design is was analyzed to minimize material waste while maximizing its architectural presence in the space with usage of parametric tools. 1

They aim to explore material properties such as the wood grain orientation and density and their relationship with bending stresses, member profiles and joinery techniques.2

1 Matsysdesign.com, ‘SG2012 Gridshell « MATSYS’, 2015 <http://mat-sysdesign.com/2012/04/13/sg2012-gridshell/> 2 Smartgeometry.org, ‘Gridshell Digital Tectonics’, 2015 <http://smartgeometry.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=arti-

In grasshopper script, it contains only a few simple commands to create the whole structure including loft, geodesic and shif list.

The special aspect of this case study is how they utilize the bending property of timber as well as their exploration of joinery.

What’s more, their interpretation of combination of geometry and struture is another eyecatching characteristic, which would be very helpful to start my research journey.

cle&id=134%3Agridshell-digital-tectonics&catid=44&Itemid=131>

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Matrix of iterations

1 Changes in numbers of dividing points on curve

3. Piping

4. Panelization using waverbird

5. Changes in origin curves

6. Changes in arch and generation of spheres based on original curves

2. Changes in shifting list parameter nad numbers of dividing points on curve

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SELECTION CRITERIA

This iteration provides example of possibility to manipulate the shift list command to achieve different polyline connection, from factor 1 to 20. It also shows the limits of the original script, which is that the shifting factor is in certain order within the circulation. It means it can only have a certain amount of iterrations no matter how the number is adjusted. And this iteraion show the limit of iteration produced according to the origin dividing number of the three curves.

This iteration provides the possibility of potential panelization of the origin model which is basicly polyline form. Being able to generate mesh or surface from origin line contributes an important part to further develop the script and create more possibility of function of the potential design. In this case, the panels could be designed into solar panels which contributes into energy generation.

This iteratioin is one of the best examples developped following the original script by offseting origin curves to generate new gridshell. And It brings out surprises in form finding as well. Also it is an example that combines geometry and structural system as the external gridshell layer functions as structural system to support internal gridshell layer as well as generate space.

This iteration is chosen as it starts up a new form finding process. Generated by creating sphere with 4 points, other iterations in the same species contain certain extent of sphere while this one creates an interesting geometry outcome which worth more exploration. In terms of structure, it may need more consideration to achieve self support.

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CANTON TOWER B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

REVERSE ENGINEERING

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CANTON TOWER

Being world’s tallest TV and sightseeing tower, Canton Tower is one of the most important landmark in Guangzhou. IBA architect says they wanted to create a ‘female‘ tower, being complex, transparent, curvy, gracious and secy, making strong contrast to most ‘male’ skyscrapers. 1

The structure consists of a open lattice-structure, built up from 1100 nodes and same amount of connecting ring and bracing pieces. It can be seen as ‘ a giant three dimensional puzzle of which all 3300 pieces are totally unique’.

1 ArchDaily, ‘Canton Tower / Information Based Architecture’, 2010 <http://www.archdaily.com/89849/canton-tower-informa-tion-based-architecture/>

It seems to have a simple idea of just having two rotated ellipses which causes the tightening to rotate to create a ‘waist’. However, during the reverse engineering project, I realize it is not the ellipse rotating, they are the tightening (lines) intersecting with each other, creating this weaving pattern and twisting illusion.

One of the most fascinating properties of the project is that every ‘line’ seems curvy but in fact they are straight lines. Also the connection designed to join all these elements are good examples to explore for my following projects. Overall the project not only provide a good example for exploring possibility of combing geometry and structure as one but also it broadens my understanding of parametric design by applying straight compnenets

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REVERSE ENGINEERING

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Design Procedure:

1. Having two ellipses, one

as base, another is about

‘450m‘(to demonstrate the

scale) above the base one.

2. After dividing two ellipses with

same number, the most important

part is to introduce shift list

command in grasshoper, which

basicly shift certain number of the

list. Then use polyine to link every

point (0 on bottom ellipse to 1

on top ellipse) on both curves.

3. Use shift list command

again to shift the order of the

polyline generated by step 2,

and use polyline to connect

points on both curves.

4. Use polyline to connect every

intersection of two ‘twisting lines‘.

5. Use tube command to

transform polyline into solid.

There are differences of

thickness of the pipe among

these three types of lines.

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1. Changes in shifting list parameter nad numbers of dividing points on curve

2. Changes in size of piping and exploring different variables available in tubes

3. Attempt to generate mesh from Voronois 3D to expand possibilities

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B.4 TECHNIQUE: DEVELOPMENT

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4. Use attractor points and random value to panelize

5. Form finding using Kangaroo plug-in

6. Panelization using weaver bird plug-in

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7. Use lunchboc plug-in to explore structure and panelization

8. Incorporating Kangaroo and lunchbox to explore geometry and structure

667

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SELECTION CRITERIA

This iteration shows possibility of potential panelization methods corresponding attractor point.

In terms of structural system, it is a possbile structural system to be adapted into later design.

This iteration is generated by Lunchbox plug-in, which provdes more structural systems to work with. This truss structure is potential in not only structural aspect but also geometry aspect as it could generate more forms with simple adjustification. Also relating to the site, the existing relaxing natural view could be maintained by adopting this truss framing structure without blocking users’ view.

This iteration brings our surprises in form finding process with use of Kangaroo plug-in. By manipulating anchor points and forces, grasshopper and kangaroo could generate many more forms to be further developped. This one has the potential to be adapted in relation to the site, especially to the slope and trees around, which could be further explored for my proposal.

This iteration is generated by use of both kangaroo and lunchbox plug-in as kangaroo has stronger capacity in form finding and lunchbox could creat possible structural system to make it self-support. It is also a very good example of combination of geometry form and structural system as one, which meets one of my essential selection criteria. Also it could be used in energy generation with installation of transparent solar panels in the truss framing.

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PROTOTYPE

B.5 TECHNIQUES

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4

This prototype is one of my successful

prototypes to test the structural

system. It allow me to explore

how species 8’s different forms’

structural system could work.

In addition, it also shows

cleanly the weakness in joints

among trusses and location of

structural support’s placement.

It enhance my development in

adjusting my geometry form.

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These prototypes shows my process of

develop structural connection between

structural components in the truss.

First: In reality, the structural

component will not work like

the simple gluing process as in

the model making process.

Second: Adaptive, flexible

joining material wil not

provide enough support.

It leads me to explore prefabication

of joint component.

This prototype is made by 3D print

using ABS. And the outcome is not

very successful as the printer would

generate temporaty support inside the

joint which is too difficult to be removed

and thus fail to be used as the joint.

As such, if I want to prefabricate the joint,

other 3d printer and material should be

used which could allow me to have hollow

tubes as shown in this digital model. Also

reducing the number of different models of

joints is needed

to further

developped

to use

prefabrication.

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B.6 PROPOSAL

SITE

Chosen site is in Coburg and surrounded mainly by residential area, which provides a relatively quiet environment. The

main noise sources come from the Antonine College and sports field across the creek. The existing site is quite a natural environment consisting both small scale forest

ecological systems and waterbody system, which could be engaged into Part C’s design development.

When I visit the site, the existing natrual view is fascinating and lead me the idea to adapt transparent truss system

to preserve existing view as well as to frame the view to enhance the function of the pavilion. Also there is

pressurized power line on the site, from which I think there is a missing link between artificial and natural environment.

And it is one of my initial concept for the proposal.

Also, in order to adapt the solar panel system, the site is chosen on the flat land area where there is no existing trees

to block the sun. However, it could be further developped to adapt the sloppy area by adjusting heights of different

components of the structure to receive sunlight while enhancing the interrelationship with the site. It leads to

more exploratio in following part C development.

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The pavilion propsal consists of two aspects in function. It is designed to be the pavilion to

broadcast history and development of Merri Creek to existing users including families in

surrounding residential area, students in Antonine College, joggers along Merri Creek Trail and

people from the sports field as well as potential users like tourists. The pavilion forms a link to

connect the artificial area and natural area through its own

transparent truss geometry, which is also its own structural system to

achieve self-support. Also transparent solar panels are also installed to

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generate energy which

support pavilion’s

electricity consumption,

as there are screen

installed to serve as

display and exhibition

as shown in the render.

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B.7 LEARNING OUTCOME

During the part B design process, I have accumulated a great extent of grasshopper skills including

kangaroo and lunchbox plug-in, as well as gaining more understanding in parametric design. And

one of the important step in the following part c is to develop efficient connection among truss

elements while try to adjust the joints into modular component which could be used in prefabrication.

In terms of design proposal, more interrelation should be developped between the pavilion and site, and one of the potential direction is to adapt

the geometry to the existing sloppy bank area and adjust the height of different component to

optimise the possibility of receiving sunlight.

For grasshopper skills, more plug-in need to be explored, such as honeybee to gain

accurate information of solar exposure and karamba to optimise the structual form to

generate a realistic building form.

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B.8 Algorithmic Sketches

These are my sketches

when trying to use

Lunchbox plug-in in

order to panelized

the surface.

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B.9 Reference Articles:

ArchDaily, ‘Canton Tower / Information Based Architecture’, 2010 <http://www.archdaily.

com/89849/canton-tower-information-based-architecture/> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Matsysdesign.com, ‘SG2012 Gridshell « MATSYS’, 2012 <http://matsysdesign.

com/2012/04/13/sg2012-gridshell/> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Smartgeometry.org, ‘Gridshell Digital Tectonics’, 2012 <http://smartgeometry.

org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=134%3Agridshell-

digital-tectonics&catid=44&Itemid=131> [accessed 1 May 2015]

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Images:

E-architect.co.uk, 2010 <http://www.e-architect.co.uk/images/jpgs/guangzhou/

canton_tower_i131010_iba11.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Enclos, 2012 <1. http://www.enclos.com/assets/images/Enclos_Structural-

Systems_Grid-Shell_Morongo2x.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Fc04.deviantart.net, 2010 <http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2012/265/0/5/

canton_tower_by_jonsonox-d5fkqyj.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Gztvtower.info, 2010 <http://gztvtower.info/downloads/IBA_4726CMYKmed.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

matsysdesign, 2012 <2. http://matsysdesign.com/wp-content/

uploads/2012/04/IMG_9460.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Matsysdesign, 2012 <1. http://matsysdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/

sg2012_ren_skin_01.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

Matsysdesign, 2012 <2. http://matsysdesign.com/wp-content/

uploads/2012/04/IMG_9469.jpg> [accessed 1 May 2015]

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DETAILED DESIGNPART C

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C.1 DESIGN CONCEPT

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FEEDBACK

Feedback from part B ‘s presentation has pointed out the lacking of engagement with the site of my proposal, which

in direct word is my adequate consideration of the site . The idea of designing a pavilion introducing solar energy

generation could be placed anywhere other than this site.

SO WHY HERE?

Also the structural capacity of the proposed pavilion has remained ambiguity as only structural dead load were considered however, load capacity of live load

such as wind load hasn’t been well developed.

In addition, the prototype was not accurate enought to be developed into detailed tectonic

joint, which needs more effort in exploring and defining, especially the angle of each connection.

It generally has different angles of every connection which has limited the ability to be prefabricated.

AS SUCH, A COMMUNAL TECTONCI ELEMENT NEEDS TO BE DEVELOPED !

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TAKE A STEP BACK!

As such, I decided to rethinking the design process, going back to site analysis to explore potential on the site, and exploring more possibiliy to develop.t

SITE ANALYSIS

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SITE ANALYSIS

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4

NATRUAL ASPECT:•At the middle area of Merrie Creek

•Surrounded by Coburg residential area

•Easy public transport access

•Relatively low noise level

•Quite high coverage of existing trees in natural area

FUNCTION AND USER ASPECT:•A college near the north entry where there is a bridge to cross the stream---students and residents

•A sport field for tennis and jogging---joggers and sports lovers

•Egan Preserve---joggers, residents and potential tourists

SITE ANALYSIS

SUSTAINABILITY ASPECT:•Very distinct division boundary between artificial area where human live and work, and natural area where there has been relatively few human intervention

•People seems to take the artificial area for granted like it has alway been this way before.

•NOT ENOUGH APPRECIATION ON EXISTING FASCINATING NATURAL VIEW

•NOT REALIZED HOW MUCH THAT HUMAN HAS IMPACTED ON NATURE

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SITING

RATIONALE:•A very representative site in the entire area of Merri Creek, which has the potential to become an experienmental spot

•Existing distinct division between artificial and natural area has been the basis of an experienmental pavilion as the pavilion should function on reminding users their impact on nature

•Existing Trees can be the object for experienment

•Right at the trail of the access from Rennire St, which could be relatively easy to be noticed

•Beside the trail from north entry

•On the trail towards south

•Relatively good solar exposure

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DESIGN CONCEPTFINALISING DESIGN PROPOSAL

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DESIGN CONCEPT

EXPERIENMENTAL PAVILION:

With concern on people’s ungrateful attitude toward natural area, I have come to the idea of designing a pavilion which

could directly show users their nagative impact on the environment as time passes. As such, I further develop this idea

with incorporating with site where there are a large number of existing eucalyptus ltrees. I then tried to finalise my design concept as builiding a experienmental pavilion which could

creat e a continuely changing contrast between areas that have been intervented by human and those that not via designed dynamic comparison of trees inside the pavilion and outside the pavilion as the pavilion controling the amount of sunlight

transmitting. As the diagrams shown, at the start, trees inside and outside the pavilion are similar and time goes by, trees inside the

pavilion would tend to grow slower and in smaller shape and with narrower canopy when comparing with trees outside in the

natural area. And in a longer period, trees inside the pavlion may start to die while trees in natural area will continuely growing.

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FORM FINDING:guiding by the idea of integrating into the site, I tried to develop forms from some basic contouring lines to start with. And I tried to create some structure that remain as hollow as possible in order to provide space for tree growth, which would also lead to interesting effects that not only integrate into the site but also create dynamic exterior extra layer of the pavilion. As such I went back to my part B’s case study Grid Shell and Canton Tower to explore the potential of grid structure.

PAVILION STRUCTURE

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4

a

STAGE 1

Deriving curves from contour lines and

using control point to manipulate it in order

to have some potential to transform it into pavilion structure.

STAGE 2

Using shift listing and polyline in grasshoper

script to generate grid structure for one

facade of the pavilion.

Reversing the direction of shift listing.

STAGE 3


script to generate grid structure for another

facade of the pavilion.

Keepting the origin direction of shift listing.

a

TECHNIQUE ILLUSTRATION

STAGE 4


script to generate grid structure for the roof of the pavilion.

STAGE 5

Rather than simply using piping

command, a combination of prep

frame, retangular and lofting command

has been used to generate the structure

from line work.

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PAVILION PANEL SYSTEMPanel system incorporating UV filter

coating could be able to control the amount of sunlight transmiting through

the pavilion and thus controlling how much sunlight could be received by the trees inside the pavilion. And it functions

as the parameter of the comparison between intervented and natural area.

TECHNIQUE ILLUSTRATIONIteration

4

a

Using Weaverbird plug-in (Pictureframe and triangulation leveling)to create pattern for panels which are inserted into the grid structure to control sunlight transmittance.

Also to create more complicated lighting effects, control points have been used to generate dynamic and parametric pattern on panels.

a

TECHNIQUE ILLUSTRATION

4

STRUCTURE

CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

PANELS

SOLAR ANALYSIS

A summer and winter solar analysis generated by using Ladybug plug-in in grasshoper which enables me to analyze the solar exposure of the pavilion and adjust the panel system accordingly.

C.2 TECTONIC ELEMENTS & PROTOTYPE

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PROTOTYPES

a TESTING RESULT:

Using MDF to model the actual friction obtained by timber material ;

During the testing process, the joint with one tenon could be easily took off from the mortise. Even incorporating into the load of the structure, I think it is stil not strong and rigid

enough to connect components of the grid structure

PROTOTYPES

a

TESTING RESULT:

Using MDF to model the actual friction obtained by timber material ;

During the testing process, the joint with one tenon and one mortise at the same surface performed more structural

rigidity and could hold components more firmly.

PROTOTYPES

a

FINIALISING TECTONIC JOINT

After researching on gusset plate, I developed the second prototype into this one, which could enable angles needed for connecting

each component of the grid structure could be satisfied.It obtains five conponents that consist of mortise and tenon at the connection surface.

C.3 FINAL PROPOSAL,RENDER AND DETAILD MODEL

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FINAL MODELGeneral form, three-dimensional printing

FINAL DETAIL MODELPROCESS

FINAL DETAIL MODEL

C.4 LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOME

Long before this semester started, I’ve been fascinated by parametric design, not only in architecture but

also in other fields like jewery designs and fashion design and I’ve always wanted to be able to learn and use

parametric design some day. And this studio has offered me the chance

to explore computation design approach. Although it has been so

much work load and challenge in both learning the software and realizing

parametric designs, it is a very great opportunity to have studied this subjectt and improved my skills in this studio. The

most impotantl thing is I have been offered the key to open the world of parametric

design. And I also realized parametric design is not just something only exists in the computer but could be

definitely achievable via holistic structural analysis. I will definitely contine my journey on computation design!

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zhuang xinyun 636710 studio air journal

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