studio air : final journal

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UpYuliana Kusuma Widjaja 657711

ABPL30048 Architecture Studio: AIRSemester 2 2015

2< Final Prototype Model

Brief:

LIVING ARCHITECTUREpropose an architectural intervention that will

express, support, amplify, or question continuous relationships between technical,

cultural, and natural systems

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TABLE OFCONTENTS

Introduction 4

Part A Conceptualisation 7

A.1 Design Futuring 8A.2 Design Computation 18A.3 Composition / Generation 28A.4 Conclusion 38A.5 Learning Outcomes 39A.6 Appendix: Algorithmic Sketches 40

Part B Criteria Design 51

B.1 Research Field 52B.2 Case Study 1.0 58B.3 Case Study 2.0 64B.4 Technique: Development 68B.5 Technique: Prototype 76B.6 Technique: Proposal 78B.7 Learning Objectives and Outcomes 86B.8 Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches 88

Part C Detailed Design 95 C.1 Design Concept 96C.2 Tectonic Elements and Prototypes 108C.3 Final Detail Model 114C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes 127

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Yuliana Widjaja

Hi I’m Yuliana, a third year architecture student at the University of Melbourne. I was born and grew up in Indonesia and I’ve spent these last 3 years in Melbourne to pursue my passion.

My interest in architecture arose from my keen enthusiasm in crafts and Physics. It developed as my Dad, who works as property developer - once brought me to his work and I enjoyed the multidisciplinary work-ing environments of construction industry. From that point, I realised that Architecture would be the per-fect field for me as it combines all my interests into one.

Apart from being a student, I’m an adrenaline junkie and I have ticked skydiving, bungee jumping, and riding extreme roller coasters off my bucket list, yay! This may appear irrelevant to architecture, but it has changed the way I see things. I learned to dare to take any risk, for you will never know untill you try, and in the end you will only regret the chances you did not take.

Well, learning Software tools such as Rhino and Grasshopper is definitely out of my comfort zone. I just started to learn software when I was in first year university. From that time my skills developed progressively as I used them in my previous studios. I learned a lot from Studio Earth and Water, and I am looking for-ward to taking a more advanced computerized design approach in Studio Air since I believe that creativ-ity starts when you are not afraid of exploring new things.

[email protected]

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Architecture Design Studio: Earth Semester 1 2015Brief: a place for keeping secrets

Software used: Sketch Up, Photoshop

GREAT THINGSNEVER CAMEFROMCOMFORTZONE

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[A]CONCEPTUALISATION

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Figure A1.1 The City of Dubaihttp://www.netflights.com/media/189038/dubai_01_681x298.jpg (accessed 10 August 2015)

[A.1]DESIGN FUTURING

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Design is shifting towards sustainability since people are aware that we have reached a stage where the amount of resources required to sustain the human population exceeds what is available.1

The above pictures show a Ski Dubai in The United Arab Emirates. This is an example of unsustainable practice since they have wasted huge amount of energy to maintain the ice from melting in the middle of desert temperature. Instead of creating buildings that are “alien” to the surrounding environments, architects should integrate social and the environment when designing

The word architect originates from Greek arkhitekton meaning ‘director of works’. Therefore architects play a big role in directing the future as they are - as the Greek definition of architect (arkhitekton) sug-gests - the ‘chief of buildings’.

The invention of computational approach might be a tool to help architects design buildings that incor-porate with surrounding environments and social needs. The following precedents show how architects integrate the surrounding natural environment in their design.

Figure A1.2 Interior of Ski Dubaihttp://www.orbittourism.ae/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ski3.jpg

1 Tony Fry, 2008, Design Futuring: Sustainaibility, Ethics, and New Practice (Oxford: Berg): 1.

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[1]Endesa PavilionBarcelona, 2011 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio

Figure A1.3 The southwest facade of Endesa Pavilionhttp://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac

1 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio, “Smart living Architec-ture: Solar Prototype”, Constructions: an Experimental Approach to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015), 129.

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Figure A1.4 Endesa Pavilion Southwest elevationhttp://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac

CONTRIBUTION TO THE IDEA

In Design Futuring, users and the envi-ronment should be integrated in the design because designers design for them.

Endesa Pavilion is a perferct prec-edent of sustainable design. The form of Endesa Pavilion follows the data of the solar path of their specific sites in Barcelona. As a result, the PV panels attached can generate doubled the energy required in the building. This is indeed what design future is looking for, as the resources generated out-weigh the human needs.1

EXPANDING FUTURE POSSIBILITIES

The logic of the algorihm is gener-ated from the sun path diagram of the specific site. This means that the same algorithm can be applied to any coun-tries by adapting the parameter of Sun Path data in the specific site.

The form clearly indicates how the log-ic works. As Barcelona is located in the northern hemisphere, thus the south side is more likely to get direct sunlight. For this reason, the southwest side of the pavilion has the most PV panels, to maximise the energy generated.

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Figure A1.5 Endesa Pavilion sectionFigure A1.6 Endesa Pavilion components

http://www.archdaily.com.br/br/01-74952/pavilhao-endesa-iaac

“Parametrically designed, it reacts to the data of its specific solar site, and via its flexible solar cells generates twice as much energy as it consumes.” 1 Areti Markopoulou and Rodrigo Rubio, “Smart living Architec-

ture: Solar Prototype”, Constructions: an Experimental Approach to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015), 129.

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[2]CH2 BuildingMelbourne, 2004DesignInc Architects

Figure A1.7 The west facade of CH2 Buildinghttp://www.archdaily.com/395131/ch2-melbourne-city-council-house-2-designinc

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Figure A1.8 CH2 Building west elevationFigure A1.9 CH2 Building north elevationFigure A1.10 CH2 Building detail of north elevationFigure A1.11CH2 Building south elevationhttp://www.archdaily.com/395131/ch2-melbourne-city-council-house-2-designinc

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CH2 Building is a green building that achieve 6 Star Green Star Building. The design of this building

is generated from the objective to maximise the wellbeing of its occupants (Indoor Environment

Quality). This approach is a characteristic of De-sign Future, as sustainability looks after the people

as well as the environment.

From the images on the left, it is evident that the facade is treated differently. The decision of each

treatment is based on the surrounding environ-ments to maximise passive design thus minimising

the energy consumed by the building.

Melbourne is located in the southern hemisphere, thus the northern facade gets most direct sun

light. For this reason, the window is getting smaller as it goes to the top of the building, so that oc-

cupants at the top do not get too much sunlight. Furthermore, the amount of afternoon sunlight

that gets into the building can be adjusted using operable timber panels in the western facade.

1 City of Melbourne. About CH2 Building, accessed 10 August 2015, from https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/CH2/aboutch2/Pages/AboutCH2.aspx

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[A.2]DESIGN COMPUTATION

Figure A2.1 TheThe curvilinear programmed wall by Gramazio & Kohlerhttp://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

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Design is shifting towards sustainability since people are aware that we have reached a stage where the amount of resources required to sustain the human population exceeds what is available.1

The above pictures show a Ski Dubai in The United Arab Emirates. This is an exam-ple of unsustainable practice since they have wasted huge amount of energy to maintain the ice from melting in the middle of desert temperature. Instead of cre-ating buildings that are “alien” to the surrounding environments, architects should integrate social and the environment when designing

The word architect originates from Greek arkhitekton meaning ‘director of works’. Therefore architects play a big role in directing the future as they are - as the Greek definition of architect (arkhitekton) suggests - the ‘director of works’.

The invention of computational approach might be a tool to help architects de-sign buildings that incorporate with surrounding environments and social needs.

1 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 08-15

Computerization vs Computational

It seems that the terms computerization and computation are often used interchangeably as the same thing, while in fact they have com-pletely different meaning. Computerization is when one uses computer only for drafting tool, but the design method itself is still analog. On the other hand, computational technique makes use of computer capabil-ity to assist designers in solving complex issues, such as material optimi-zation, digital materiality, digital fabrication, and efficient construction process1.

The following precedents show how architects integrate computational technique in their design process, allowing sophisticated solution to complex issues, which are hardly possible to be done manually.

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[3]The Programmed WallZurich, 2006Gramazio & Kohler

Figure A2.3 The fabrication process of programmed wall http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

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The first precedent of design computation is “The Programmed Wall” by Fabio Gramazio and Matthias Kohler. It was a research project in 2006 that investigate the design potential for brick using digital fabrication. At that time, it was considered a radical invention as it resolved the limited flexibility of brick modules to produce fluid form. It would be extremely difficult to produce complex curvilinear walls if using traditional design and construction methods since mason cannot lay the brick as accu-rately as computer does, even with extra tool.

Brick masonry construction has declided significantly in western countries due to high cost of masonry labor and long duration of construction pro-cess that causes even higher cost. 2 Thus, this research may brick back the popularity of masonry construction since it has solved the shortcom-ings of this method.

In addition to faster and relatively cheaper construction process, digital fabrication allows designers to supervise the construction process since the robot is controlled digitally.

In conclusion, there has been a change in the use of computer in design and construction indusry. Previously, computer was only used as a tool to digitize drawings, but today designers use computer to do the construc-tion process, allowing accurate result and more resolved outcome.

"A robot is not only quicker, more precise, and more pro-ductive, but it also enables complex designs that are im-possible for a human to build with that level of accuracy."1

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BASIC LOGIC

Gramazio and Kohler started the design by creating possible iterations of curvilinear surfaces (Figure A2.4). Next, they create the logic based on procedural logic of laying brick in traditional masonry.3

“A brick is laid to another brick, shifted, and perhaps rotated until the end of a row is reached. The next row is then shifted by half of the brick width, and the previous procedure is repeated, and so on until the desired height is reached.”4

This logic is applied to both vertical and horizontal direction, which eventually create a curvilinear wall (Figure A2.5).

1 Gramazio, F., & Kohler, M. (2008). Towards a digital material-ity. In B. Kolarevic, & K.R. Klinger, Manufacturing material effects: rethinking design and making inarchitecture (p 113). NewYork: Routledge.

2 Kareem El Sayed Mouhammad. “Potential Innovative use of conventional building materials: Case Studies on Masonry and Stone Constructions”, Alexandra University. http://www.aca-demia.edu/1454683/Innovative_use_of_conventional_materials

3 Nick Dunn, Digital Fabrication in Architecture (London: Laurence King Publishing, 2012),53.

4 Gramazio and Kohler, 2008.

Figure A2.4 The curvilinear iterations http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

Figure A2.5 The logic is applied in vertical and horizontal direction http://gramaziokohler.arch.ethz.ch/web/e/lehre/81.html

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[4]ICD/ ITKE PavilionStuttgart, 2010Achim Menges

Figure A2.6 ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2010http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

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ICD Pavilion is a research project by University of Stuttgart that uses inno-vative design process that is more efficient than in the past. In conven-tional design process, the form was generated first before moving to ma-teriality. In contrast, the designers of ICD Pavilion started the project by studying the behavior of the material they would like to use. The test the bending stress of the material physically (Figure A2.8). Next, the results were then transformed into algorithms that would determine the form. After setting the logic, the designers used software such as FEM Model-ling to let computer generate the possible forms that satisfy the logic.1

This computational design technique is far more efficient than the con-ventional design process because the final form is structurally efficient since the form is generated from the behavior of the material itself.

This precedent shows that computational design technique allows de-signers to increase the efficiency in construction using the natural behav-ior of material using parametric algorithms.

1 Moritz Fleischmann, Jan Knippers, Julian Lienhard, Achim Menges and Simon Schleicher, “Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in computational design Processes”, Material Computation: Higher Integration in Morphogenetic Design, Architectural Design 82,2 (2012): 44-51.

Figure A2.7 FEM modelling showing the bending stress across the formhttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

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Figure A2.9 Bending Stress data analysishttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

Figure A2.8 Physical Experiment on bending be-havior of material plywood stripshttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=4458

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Figure A3.1 The subdivided columns by Michael Hansmeyerhttp://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html?screenSize=1&color=1

[A.3]FROM COMPOSITION

TO GENERATION

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Not only can computer assist human in digital fabrication and construction, but also in generating forms. Generation is one of computational techniques that allow architects to explore forms during design process. So instead of com-posing the geometry from the start, designers create a constructive logic and let computer generates the forms, thus the outcome is emerging beyond the intellect of designers.

To use generative approach, architects need to generate an algorithm based on certain logic. The key feature of algorithm is that it is made of definite set of operations and is easy to follow1. The movement of each particle is af-fected by the relationship to its neighbors, and at the same time is affecting how the neighboring particles move. This simple rule results in unpredictable and infinite number of possible forms and the architect can then choose the best iterations amongst them.

However, despite the above advantages of using generative design approach in the design process, there are also disadvantages associated with it. One of the major problems caused by digital architecture is that it creates gap between the architects and the end products. This happens because some architects are lacking of algorithmic scripting skills, thus often they invite scripting experts to optimize the initial concepts they had2. In this case, the archi-tects can only contribute to the concepts and overall shape of the building, but they cannot involve during the form generation process. Therefore it is necessary for architects to develop their knowledge in scripting to catch up with the trend of digital architecture.

The precedent in the previous section (A2 Design Computation) - the programmed wall- has given an idea of how the wall is generated from algorithm. The following precedents – Brass Swarm and Subdivided columns – will further demonstrate how architects can generate a complex from a basic logic using parametric design approach.

1 Definition of ‘Algorithm’ in Wilson, Robert A. and Frank C. Keil, eds (1999). The MIT Encyclopedia of the Cognitive Sciences (London: MIT Press), pp. 112 Asterios Agkathidis and Elizaveta Edemskaya, “Vladimir Shukhov: A Critical Review on Digital Architecture,” eCAADe 33 (2015): 1.

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[5]Agent Bodies + Swarm IntelligenceMelbourne, 2004Kokkugia

Figure A3.3 Swarm Composite Kokkugia Researchhttp://www.kokkugia.com/woven-composites

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SWARM INTELLIGENCEFigure A3.4 Swarm Intelligence Kokkugia Researchhttp://www.kokkugia.com/filter/swarm-intelli-gence/swarm-intelligence

Agent BodiesFigure A3.5 Agent Bodies Kokkugia Researchhttp://www.kokkugia.com/filter/agent-bodies/agentbodies

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Ronald Snooks is a Melbourne architect who has strong interest in computational design processes and robotic fabrication techniques. In his experimental architecture research called Kokkugia, he and his partner Robert Stu-art- Smith explore generative design practices based on the logic of complex self-organizing behavior of systems1.

Two of the main research agendas that they are working on are Swarm Intelligence and Agent Bodies.

1. Agent Bodiesis multi-agent used to design complex tectonics. The logic of it came from the conceptualization of ant bridges, which demonstrates the interrelated geometry of ant bodies when forming Ant Bridge.

2. Swarm intelligenceis an algorithm that draws from the logic of collective behavior that happens intuitively, such as in flocking of birds and schooling of fish.

From these two logics, Ronald Snooks generate seven different forms, which are completely different one to another. It is interesting how simple logics can result in varied impressive results that you would not have ex-pected that they all come from the same logic. Two of the researches are Brass Swarm (Figure A3.6) and Com-posite Swarm, shown in the previous page (FigureA3.3).

Brass SwarmFigure A3.5 Brass Swarm Prototype in Shanghai 2015http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/agent-bodies/brass-swarm

1 Kokkugia, “Research Agendas”, accessed 9 August 2015, from http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/research/research-agendas

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Figure A3.10 Subdivided columns by Michael Hansmeyerhttp://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

[6]Subdivided ColumnsGwangju Design Bienalle, 2011Michael Hansmeyer

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BASIC LOGICSubdivided columns consists of 2.7 m high different abstracted doric col-umns. In this project, Hansmeyer used typical doric column as the basic log-ic. The input form contains rules about the fluting, entasis, and proportion of doric column’s shaft, capital, and supplemental base1 (Figure A3.11).

GENERATIVE DESIGN APPROACHNext, the initial input goes through het-erogeneous process of subdivision al-gorithm, which divides a surface into smaller surfaces. Figure A3.12a records the gradual process of subdivision in 2D form. It initially started with 3 lines, then they divided again and again, resulted in complex form on the right. More-over, Hansmeyer did not only do sub-

division in XY plane, but also in Z direc-tion, forming even more sophisticated results. During the subdivision process, Hansmeyer also varied the parameter of division ratio, shown in Figure A3.12b. From this precedent, it is evident that generative method of designing has ex-ceeded human intelligence as it allows exploration in 3D form which is impos-sible to be done by analog design due to physical constraints of 2D medium.

FABRICATION PROCESS

However, the disadvantage of gen-erative design occur when explora-tion go beyond the capability of fab-rication technology. For instance, Hansmeyer admitted the difficulty during the fabrication process of

Figure A3.11 Typical doric column used for setting the initial logicFigure A3.12a (above) The subdivision process in 2D Figure A3.12b (below) Variation of ratios in parameterhttp://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

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The architect designs a process that produces a column, rather than designing a column directly. Michael Hansmeyer

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the subdivided columns for the Gwangju Design Biennale in 2011.

The columns were fabricated layer by layer using 2700 sheets of 1mm card-board2. The sheet was individually cut by laser cutter, and stacked around a common core to hold them together. The detailed curvy form makes it ex-tremely difficult to be 3D printed as the parts are prone to breaking off.

From Michael Hansmeyer’s experi-ence, we learn that during genera-tive design process, it is crucial to think of constructability as the limit of the exploration in generative process.

1 Michael Hansmeyer , “Subdivided Columns - a New Order”, ac-cessed 10 August 2015, from <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info.html?screenSize=1&color=1>.

2 Ibid

Figure A3.13 Several iterations of subdivided columnsFigure A3.14 Fabrication process of subdivided columns in Gwangju Design Biennale 2011http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns.html#20

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[A4]Conclusion

In conclusion, we are now living in the era where the human population is significantly increasing, while on the other hand the resources are decreasing. Due to concern of insufficient amount of resources to sustain the needs of generations to come, human,

inclusing designers, need to change their behavior and way of thinking. Design futuring looks towards sustainability, in which the design must incorporate with the environment

so that it minimises negative impacts to the environment.

Computational approach, unlike computerization, uses computer as a tool in assisting designers to analyse and solve complex problems, thus giving the most efficitent solu-tion to minimise the impact on environment. For instance, The position of PV panels in Endesa pavilion is based on the computational data of sun path in Barcelona. The ar-

chitect used parametric design to create the form that can optimise the input of radia-tion energy to every single PV panels. This is impossible to be done manually without the aid of computer, therefore computational technique is critical for designers to achieve

Design Future.

In addition to that, computational architecture includes generative design approach which enable designers to generate complex forms. With this method, instead of com-posing the geometry from the start, designers start with making algorithm that makes the logic of movement. Next, the computer will create infinite number of possible out-comes based on the logic, and designers can choose several iterations that work and they can develop them even further. This allow designers to come up with unexpected

yet interesing discoveries.

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Within these three weeks, I realised that computational technique really is a beneficial approach in designing. It brings many disadvantages, such as for exploring new mate-rial, material optimisation, and increasing efficiency of construction. More importantly, it helps architects to generate forms beyond 2 dimensional medium which was previo-ulsly a limitation when using analog design method. Generative design approach al-

lows designers to come up with complex forms beyond the imagination of the design-ers themselves.

In some cases the exploration may go too far and create issue during the fabrication , such as in Hansmeyer subdivided columns project. However, I believe that in the future

the fabrication technology will get more advanced and able to accomodate the exploration of generative design approach.

As the advantages overcome the disadvantages, I believe that generative design approach will replace the analog design approach and become the trend in years to

come (or even now). For this reason, I think it is important for me to learn algorithmic software such as Grasshopper for my future career in architecture practice.

[A5]Learning Outcome

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[A6]Appendix:

Algorithmic Sketches

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These are the first attempt of my exploration on Grasshopper. At this stage, due to my limited understanding on Grasshopper inputs, the exploration is based on trial and

error, thus the results are random and some of them are failed.

I played a lot wih triangulation inputs, such as octree, voronoid, and metaball. I combined the triangulation inputs with surface commands such as pipes and lofts

to create geometry.

This exercise has given me a better understanding on how computational design strategy in the precedents work. Different inputs and variable parameters can result

in various complex iterattions, which often create unpredictable yet interesting outcome.

Week 1

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In the second trial, I tried to experiment with surface panelling. I create two different geometries, which are circles and lines,,as

the panels on lofted curves.

I did not expect the outcome would be this interesting. The panels create shadows when rendered, causing even more dramatic

effect.

Week 2

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In this exercise, I experiment with contours and geodesic inputs. From the contour lines, I also try to divide it into points, and use octree, shown at the bottom right images. However, this experiment failed because the points are too close to one another, thus the boxes are concentrated to one area only.

I also played with changing the contours in X, Y, and Z direction and it came up with interesting result (top right image)

I look forward to continue learning Grass-hopper throughout the rest of this semester and I believe that this will help my design process in the future.

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Week 3

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Fry, Tony. 2008. Design Futuring: Sustainaibility, Ethics, and New Practice (Oxford: Berg).

Markopoulou, A. & Rubio, R. “Smart living Architecture: Solar Prototype”, Constructions: an Experimen-tal Approach to Intensely local Architecture 85, 2 (2015).

City of Melbourne. About CH2 Building, accessed 10 August 2015, from https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/CH2/aboutch2/Pages/AboutCH2.aspx

Gramazio, F., & Kohler, M. (2008). Towards a digital materiality. In B. Kolarevic, & K.R. Klinger, Manufac-turing material effects: rethinking design and making inarchitecture (p 113). NewYork: Routledge.

Mouhammad,K. “Potential Innovative use of conventional building materials: Case Studies on Masonry and Stone Constructions”, Alexandra University. http://www.academia.edu/1454683/Innovative_use_of_conventional_materials

Dunn, N. Digital Fabrication in Architecture (London: Laurence King Publishing, 2012),53.

Fleischmann, M. et. al, 2012. “Material Behaviour: Embedding Physical Properties in computational design Processes”, Material Computation: Higher Integration in Morphogenetic Design, Architectural Design 82,2, pp 44-51.

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

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

Agkathidis, A. & Edemskaya, E. 2015. “Vladimir Shukhov: A Critical Review on Digital Architecture,” eCAADe (33).

Kokkugia, “Research Agendas”, accessed 9 August 2015, from http://www.kokkugia.com/filter/re-search/research-agendas.

Hansmeyer, M. “Subdivided Columns - a New Order”, accessed 10 August 2015, from <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info.html?screenSize=1&color=1> .

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Bibliography

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[B]CRITERIA DESIGN

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Figure B1.1 The ICD/ITKE Pavilion 2013/2014http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/wp-content/gallery/rp2013-14-icd-itke/folie24.jpg(acessed 20 September 2015)

[B.1]RESEARCH FIELD:

BIOMIMICRY

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As discussed in the previous chapter, architecture is now moving towards sustainability as human has caused huge damage to nature in the past and if we continue to do that, the future generations wouldn’t be able to have enough resources to survive.

Fortunately, the best precedents for the solution is just around us: biological entities. Janine Benyus claims that “(w)hen we look at what is truly sustain-able, the only real model that has worked over long periods of time is the natural world.” The reason is because nature has been striving for millions of years, yet its existence doesn’t bring negative impact to its surrounding.

The term biomimicry and biomimetics are often used interchangeably, while in fact they are slightly different. Michael Pawlyn defines biomimicry as “mim-icking the functional basis of biological forms, processes, and systems to pro-duce sustainable solutions”2. In contrast, biomimetic is is a general term for imitating the elements of nature. The main difference here is that biomimicry does not only generate biomorphic forms to imitate nature’s appearance, but more importantly learning from its behavior to find out a solution for more sustainable practices.

Therefore, I will use biomimicry as the foundation of my design by incorpo-ratng nature’s characteristics as the solution for the issues on Merri Creek.

1. Janine Benyus, Ted Talk Biomimicry in Action, July 2009, http://www.ted.com/talks/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_action?language=en2. Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 2

"When we look at what is truly sustainable, the only realmodel that has worked over long periods of time is the natural world. "1 -Janine Benyus-

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[1]Palazzetto dello Sport

Pier Luigi Nervi Rome, Italy, 1962

Michael Palwyn in his book “Biomimicry in Architecture argues that nature is able to use material effeciently due to its evolved ingenuity of form, such as folding, vaulting, and inflation. Nature continuously refining its structure to be able to survive, so the characteristics that we can see today is the best structure nature can be throughout the entire process of evolution. For that reason learning from the nature surround us today will give us inspiration for creating a sustainable and effective structure.

Design Implication & Opportunities

In this example, Nervi was inspired by the efficient use of network of ribs in Amazon water lily that are able to stiffen large area of leaf without adding significant thickness. In this project, Nervi combined the structural strength pro-duced by the interconnecting ribs as well as dome action to support wide thin planar surface. 1 As a result, he cre-ated extremely efficient structures and minimised the overall material cost.

Fabrication

In this project, Nervi makes use of the advantage of his invention of reinforced concrete called ‘ferro cemento’ which is elastic and strong thus allowing him to create complex form.

1. Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 9

(left) The Oculus of Palazzetto dello Sport. http://www.architectural-review.com/Journals/2012/01/30/e/k/j/020a-palazzetto-IMG_7467.jpg

a. The Oculus in planhttps://www.pinterest.com/pin/569353577864421959/b. Inspired by the Amazon giant water lily leafMichael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011), 8.c. Section of Palazzetto dello Sport. http://www.urbipedia.org/images/5/51/Palazzetto_dello_sport.Planos1.jpg

(b)(a) (c)

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ICD / ITKE Pavilion 2014/15http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

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[2]ICD/ITKE Pavillion

2014/2015Inst. for Computational Design (Prof. Menges) Inst. of Building Structures &

Structural Design (Prof. Knippers)

Design Implication & Opportunities

This project was inspired by the underwater nest construction of the water spider. As water spider spends most of its life under water, they build a reinforced air bubble to survive. To begin with, the spider builds a horizontal sheet web as the base for putting the air bubble. Next, the air bubble is progressively reinforced by laying a hier-archical arrangement of fibers from within(shown in figure a). This results in a stable structure that can withstand mechanical stresses, including changing water currents, thus providing a safe and stable habitat for the spider.

Fabrication

ICD/ITKE Pavilion 2015 takes this natural production process to create efficient fiber-reinforced struc-tures using industrial robot.

Initially, the robot is placed within an air supported membrane envelope made of ETFE. Next, the robot is programmed to reinforce the inside with carbon fiber to gradually stiffened the structure into a self-supporting structure. The carbon fibers are only applied to area that require structural reinforcement, which results in a resource efficient construction process.

(c)

(a) Microscopic image of Diving Bell Water Spider (Agyroneda aquatica) nesthttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

Robotic placement of carbon fiber reinforcement layers Various fiber reinforcement strategieshttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

(b) Water Spiderhttp://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

1. Universitat Stuttgart, accessed 20 September 2015, http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965.

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Figure B2.1 Biothing Seriossi Pavilionhttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2637/3709156721_4c01a33f6f_b.jpg(acessed 20 September 2015)

[B.2]CASE STUDY 1.0:

Biothing Seriossi Pavilion

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

a. Points

b. Curves

c. Hexagonal Grid

d. Sine and Cosine Function

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

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B.2. Selected Outcome

Selection Criteria

I’m planning to design a fishway at Dight Falls, therefore the requiremen for the brief is to create a pathway that can

slower down the flow of the water with low slope, so that fish can swim from upstream to downstream, and vice versa.

Therefore, my selection criteria is a form that has rough surface, to achieve my intention in slowing down the water

movement. However, the surface can’t be too sharp be-cause otherwise it may harm the fish.

I chose the iterations on the left as the best 4 because these form have successfully created rough surface.

Speculation upon design potential

The iterations might help in generating rough form which I may attach on the wall of the fishway.

However, fabrication becomes a big issue since the iterations are all in the form of lines, thus I may need to think of materi-als that are flexible and thin, such as using fibre. Furthermore,

it has to be waterproof since my design will be placed underwater.

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1

I like the shape in the middle that ap-pears like a mountain. However, the top is too shape so I might need to change it to smoother shape

2

This, again, appears like mountainous sur-face. In comparison to iteration , this shape is smoother, however it is separated to one another so it looks like segmented.

3

This shape reminds me of a coral that is soft and flexible. I might be able to use this shape to mimick the natural coral which also slow down water current.

4

The final iteration is the most unique one. I generated this form by combining sine and cosine graph together. In relation to the brief, this might be the sectional view of a fishway tunnel, which would be interesting!

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[B.3]CASE STUDY 2.0:

Flora Form Florescence Jewelryby Nervous System

Figure B3.1 Floraform jewelryhttp://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

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AboutFloraform is a project developed by Nervous system. They got inspiration from the biomechanics of growing leaves and blooming flowers. This project mimicks the development of natural surfaces through differential growth. The simulation results in a curly unique form which then are 3d printed to make jewelry and sculpture .

I chose this particular project because this may be the solution to my agenda, which is to create a rough and uneven surfaces.

Figure B3.1 Floraform inspirationhttp://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

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Set 6 curves Populate Geometry+

Construct Delaunay Triangulation Mesh

N.B. the edges of the curve needs to have more points (to achieve

curly effect)

Run Kangaroo Solver

Input:- Sphere Collide

- Show-Smooth

- Length (Line)

1 2 3

B.3. The Process

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Select The edges of the mesh using Cull Pattern, then subdivide using

Weaverbird’s Split Triangles Subdivi-sion to get more points

Repeat procedure 3 (Kangaroo Solver) to achieve more curly

effect

BakeRepeat the process several times

and combine the mesh

4 5 6

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[B.4]TECHNIQUE: DEVELOPMENT

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Species 1: Torus Delaunay Mesh

1 2 3 4

a

b

c

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Species 1: Torus Delaunay Mesh

Species 2: Cone Delaunay Mesh

1 2 3 4

a

b

c

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Species 3: Kangaroo generated Mesh

1 2 3

a

b

c

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Species 3: Kangaroo generated Mesh

Species 4: Lines

1 2 3 4

a

b

c

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Species 5: Plankton Mesh

1 2 3 4

a

b

c

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B.4. Selected Outcome

Species 5: Plankton Mesh

In this part, I’m still aiming to generate uneven and rough form. The outcome produced is more desire-able than in part B.2. By using Kangaroo plugin, I’m able to generate form based on physics logic sphere collide. The colllision of every single sphere create a curly effect. The most successful one is C because it create a curly strips that I can adopt to my fishway design.

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[B.5]TECHNIQUE: PROTOTYPE

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For the prototype, I 3D print one of my successful itera-tion using powder printer which is waterproof.

I experiment the water movement in 2 different surface. First I put my 3DPrint form into the the bottle, forming rough surface. When I put dye into the water, I can see that the dye was hold by the rough thus it moves slower than in smooth surface.

This indicates that my initial speculation was correct and it should be able to slower down the water move-ment in the fishway.

1. Powder Print the model

2. Prepare Red Dye 3. Place the model in the bottle

4. Pour tap water into the bottle

5. Put a drop of red dye into the water

5. Open the bottle lid to let water flow

6. The Red Dye indicate the flow of water

7. The model has suc-cessfully slowed down the water flow

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Distribution Map of Australian Grayling

Source:Australian Government, Department of Environment, 2015http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/pub-licspecies.pl?taxon_id=26179

Source:Melbourne Water, 2015

Client:

AustralianGrayling

“ Grayling have undergone severe de-clines in most of their known habitats and are now listed as vulnerable at a State and National level.” Melbourne Water

[B.6]TECHNIQUE: PROPOSAL

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a timber structure was built to provide water to the Melbourne Flour Milling Company.

The timber weir was broken thus require new structure

the original timber piles were capped by concrete, replacing

the timber deck

Dight Falls TimelineSource: Melbourne Water

1940 19681895

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Melbourne Water realized that the weir was a barrier to fish mi-

gration, thus they constructed a rock fishway to allow fish to move

around the weir.

The rock fishway was partly ef-fective thus they built vertical slot

fishway

1993 2012 2015

?

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Digh

ts Fa

lls - A

rtist Im

pres

sion

62

5

4

1

3

1 2 3

4

5 6

Exit

Entry

New Weir

The new weir will be similar in height, location and shape to the existing structure and will maintain a waterfall effect. Constructed of concrete and underpinned by bored piles, the proposed weir ties into the rock face on the southern bank of the river in the same location as the existing structure. On the northern bank it ties in, and connects to the fi shway, approximately two metres in front of the existing structure.

Vertical Slot Fishway & Viewing Platform

The vertical slot fi shway will allow fi sh to move past the weir. The fi shway features a gently sloped concrete channel divided to create a series of connected pools. The vertical slot fi shway will be landscaped into the river bank and covered by grates to protect fi sh from predators. The fi shway will also act as a platform for the community to view Dights Falls.

Interpretive Signage

Interpretive signage will provide the community with information about the fi shway.

Placed Rock

Carefully placed rock will be used to visually integrate the fi shway into the natural surrounds. The placed rock will also play an important role in allowing fi sh to swim up to the entrance of the vertical slot fi shway near the weir.

Landscaping

The area around the fi shway will be landscaped with native plants to help integrate the design with the surrounding park.

Concrete Access Path

A path will connect the existing mill race crossing with the fi shway viewing platform.

ARTIST IMPRESSION OF THE NEW WEIR AND FISHWAY AT DIGHTS FALLS

INTERNAL VIEW OF FISHWAY

INTERNAL PLAN VIEW

FISHWAY GRATES

FISH MOVEMENT UPSTREAM

Refer to Internal Plan View

30.8m

4.4m

Source: Melbourne Waterhttp://melbournewater.com.au/whatwedo/projectsaround-melbourne/Documents/Dights_Falls_Artist%20Impression.pdf

Diagram of the existing Fishway at DightfallsDight Falls Weir and Fishway Project 2010-2012

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Exploded Axonometric Diagram of major elements required in Fishway at Dight Falls

1. Compartments

2. Outer and inner walls

3. Base with slope 1:18

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My design intention is to keep the major ele-ments that are necessary in Fishway as de-signed by the engineer, but transforming the wall shape maximise its efficiency.

A research of innovative fishway design by Mar-tin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner in June 2008 concludes that

“Manipulating Turbulance by adding wall roughness in the vertical slot design can improve performance”

Previously they use PVC Pipes to achieve this, as shown in figure below. For this reason, instead of using PVC pipes, I want to change the wall tex-ture to achieve the same outcome but minimis-ing the cost and use of extra material.

Source:Innovative Fishway Design

by Martin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner

June 2008

Render of Proposed Design

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[B.7]Learning Objectives

& Outcome

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In the past 9 weeks in Air Studio, I have learned so much and my skills in using Rhino and grasshopper has im-proved significantly.

The research has made me have a better and clearer understanding of coputational design. Furthermore, I found some precedents that are very useful in generating ideas and forms.

Now I’m able to create, manipulate, and design using parametric modelling. For instance, when I first look at the precedent of Floraform for my Case Study 2 project, I had no idea how to form such unique shape lilke that. For-tunately, by doing research and help from my tutor, I can successfully made similar shape. In the future I will keep learning to be more advanced in computational design which I found very useful.

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[B.8]Appendix-

Algorithmic Sketches

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ICD / ITKE Pavilion 2014/15. http://icd.uni-stuttgart.de/?p=12965

Janine Benyus, Ted Talk Biomimicry in Action, July 2009, http://www.ted.com/talks/janine_benyus_biomimicry_in_action?language=en

Michael Pawlyn, “Biomimicry in Architecture”(London: RIBA Publishing, 2011)

Melbourne Water. Accessed September 2015, from http://melbournewater.com.au/whatwedo/projectsaround-melbourne/Documents/Dights_Falls_Artist%20Impression.pdf.

Martin Mallen-Cooper, Brenton Zampatti, Ivor Stuart, and Lee Baumgartner. 2008/ Innovative Fishway Design.

Nervous system. Floraform. http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/sets/floraform/

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Bibliography

95

[C]Detailed Design

96

Yuliana Widjaja Hsin Yeh

Reflecting on Individual Feedback

Brief: LIVING ARCHITECTURE

propose an architectural intervention that will express, support, amplify, or question

continuous relationships between technical, cultural, and natural systems

BeDIGHT

Concept : Fishway at Dight FallsOpportunity: The curly shape is unique and inter-esting. However, the practicality of the structure need to be considered.

PLANT-NET

Concept : Pavilion at Farmer’s MarketOpportunity: The triangle pattern is interest-ing, however need a clear reason of what the pattern and form are inspired from. The overall shape of the pavilion should correspond to the site analysis, such as from sun path. Furthermore, more suitable material and construction meth-od need to be figured out.

[C1]Design Concept

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James GibbsTingru Liu

NET TOWER

Concept : Interactive structure suspended above water & ground at CERES Environment Park. The network pattern is simple but strong enough to load certain weight. Furthermore, light material (lycra) is used which enable it be hung on trees.

Opportunity: The mesh pattern form generation

HEXA-GONE

Concept : a series of shelters design to be built in modular parts and placed in such a way as the nature would grow around and into them.Opportunity: Coding looked into shift listing the points on Hexagons to create patterns through each.

After reflecting on the comments and sugges-tions from our interim presentation, we decided to create a Fishway at Dight Falls as proposed by Yuliana, and combined it with mesh patterning skill that Hsin, James, and Tingru got.

to Collaborative Idea

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Existing Fishway at Dight Falls

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Precedent: Ozaukee County, WI

< The current vertical slot Fishway at Dight Falls is working efficiently compared to the prior rock ramp fishway. However, the huge concrete struc-ture is blocking the nice panorama behind. For this reason, we would like to redesign the shape to enhance the aesthetic without changing the en-gineered system that is proven to be effective.

Source: http://www.prrsum.org/sites/prrsum.org/files/UMSRS%203.24.14_AStruck.pdf

^ A project run by PRRSUM (Partnership for Riv-er Restoration and Science in the Upper Mid-west) has proven that fishway could ehance the living ecosystem in the river and improve water quality. This long yet curvy fishway does not distract the view and look nicer in com-parison to the existing Fishway at Dight Falls which is gigantic and boxy. For this reason, our design intention is to transform the existing fish-way to a structure that merge into the site.

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RESIDENTIAL

ROAD

ATTRACTIONS WATER

VEGETATION

MERRI CREEK YARRA RIVER

UPSTREAMDOWNSTREAM

ABBOTSFORD CONVENT

COLLINGWOODCHILDREN’SFARM

DIGHTS FALL

HUMAN ACCESS

CAPITAL CITY TRAIL

N

Site Analysis

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Site Response

^ Site Model Scale 1:200

Form Finding Diagram

The overall shape for the fishway derived from the shape of Yarra River itself, specifically where it meets Merri Creek. The initial curve was then adapted to the topography of the landscape

<The site is located at Dight Falls, where Merri Creek meets Yarra River. Dight Falls is one of place of interest along the Merri Creek Trail. Furthermore, it is located fairly close to Abbotsford Convent and Collingwood Children’s Farm, which is a good opportunity for this project.

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Technique Diagram

Curvefor the basic shape

Extrude inZ direction

Mesh machineto triangulate mesh regularly

Plankton Meshto subdivite the edges into smaller triangles

RotateBrep Mesh

Repeat the process to get more curly outcome

^ Form Finding using Kangaroo Solver

Basic curve Form Generation

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Scale mesh to get minimum length of 1 (since Kanga-roo cannot run if it is less than 1)

Smooth

Length (Line)

AnchorDeconstruct Mesh

Sphere CollideDeconstruct Mesh

Curve Closest PointCull Pattern

Smaller than

Kangaroo Solver

Item Mesh

Form Generation

The technique for the the curly shape is inspired by the FloraForm Jewelry by Nervous System, as ex-plored in Part B. I use Daniel Piker’s Mesh Machine to remesh the sur-face to regular equilateral trian-gles. Note that the edges need to have smaller triangles than the center parts. Next, use Kangaroo Solver Sphere Collide to achieve curly outcome. I can control the form by changing the radius of the sphere or playing around with the strength of the force. The more the spheres collide, the curlier it will be.

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Pattern Diagram

Curve(Triangle Mesh)

Explode Curve

Evaluate

Discontinuity

Merge CurveClosest Point

Shatter Cull Index

Cluster Point

Evaluate

Evaluate

0.3

0.7

0.5

Polygon Center

P Shift

Merge

Cluster

Line Evaluate P. Shift Cluster

Merge

Merge Join P. Shift Join Boundary

Int Curve

Int Curve

The pattern is generated from a sim-ple triangulate mesh. A leaf-shape curve is cut out in the midpoint of every side of the equilateral triangle.

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Comparison DiagramExisting Fishway at Dight Falls Proposed Design

Plan

Section

Exploded Axonometric Diagram

Rocks

PVC PipesCompartment Rocks

Compartment

CompartmentCompartment

Rocks

PVC Pipes

Water Turbulance

Rocks

Water Turbulance

Compartment

Rocks

Water Turbulance

Compartment

Rocks

PVC Pipes

Water Turbulance

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Section Diagram

<The diagrams on the left show how the fishway work. We are using the same system done by Engineers at the Existing Fishway which is already proven to be effective.

The existing fishway has box shape, and the pathway is a U turn with total length of ap-proximately 60 metre and 24 compartments. The slope is 1: 18, or in other words, the fish will go up 10 cm by passing a single compartment thus 2.4 metre in total.

Instead of making a U-Turn pathway, we decided to make a curvy pathway but still 60 metre long in total. Curvy pathway makes the fishway seem integrated to the site.

Another issue with the existing fishway is they need to assemble PVC Pipes in between the compartments to control turbulance. Thus, instead of making the compartment flat, we change the shape to curly so that the shape of the compartment itself can slow down the water.

Advantages: NO PVC pipes required to maximise turbulance since the curly compartment is already slowing down the water

The section diagram shows the scale of the fishway in comparison to human and to its surrounding at the site. Parts of the curly shape will be above the water, approximately 1 m tall, which can be a decoration or where plants can grow.

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Construction Method:We divide the triangle mesh into strips, and use

color code to identify the strip

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1:1 Scale Prototype model using polypropylene as the material and laser cut the triangles

[C2]Tectonic Elements & Prototypes

110

The ProcessFirst and foremost, take out the strips from the laser cut sheet and label each strip to make it easier to join them together. Next, connect 2 strips together using the color code in Rhino as reference. Repeat

this process and it will gradually form the shape.

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1. Eyelet 2. Rivet with Washer 3. Stapler

+ : Strong joint, easy to assemble- : The joint is too big (7mm), we couldn’t find better colour for the eyelet

+ : Strong joint, small in size(3mm) Have black and white color- : Hard to assemble

+ : Easy to assemble, Small in size so the joint is invisible- : Weak

Test on Joints

We decided on using rivet with washer because it has a strong joint and the size of the rivet fits perfectly with the triangles.

Tools

Rivet Washer Rivet Gun

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+ : Easy to assemble, Small in size so the joint is invisible- : Weak

The JointAfter testing three different types of joints (eyelet, rivet, and stapler) and considering their pros and cons, we chose rivet with washer as the final joint. Even though it is harder to as-semble than using eyelet, the outcome is much better since the colour of the rivet blends perfectly and the size of the riv-et is proportionate to the model

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[C.3]Final Detail Model

Site ModelScale 1:200

The first model we made is the site model, to show how the curly fishway integrate with the surrounding environments.

We Powder printed the curly fishway, and use laser cut for the contour.

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Compartment ModelScale 1:40

This model shows how the compartment as ex-plained in part C1 will work. We powder printed the 4 compartments, and use laser cut to make

the box which represent the soil.

117

Compartment Model in detail

120

We brought the prototype model to the site to test whether it can slow down the water flow and it

did worked. As it slows down the water, the model twisted around making it looks like a living creature

Prototype ModelScale 1:1

Test on site

121

Prototype model placed next to river bank

122

Prototype ModelScale 1:1

Test on shadows, lighting, and its opportunity to be used as decorative elements.

124

Fish Perspective Render

125

Human Perspective Render

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[C4]Learning Objectives& Outcomes Objective 1I learnt how every student’s interpretation of a broad and general brief can be variable and I found each of them is unique and interesting

Objective 2,3I learnt how parametric modelling can assist me to generate and think of a variety of design possibilities in response to the brief.

Objective 4My model making skills improved significantly as this subject push me to make prototype and test the joints and connection.

Objective 5The feedback given by tutor and guest crits enable me to think critically and think of the problems my project might have, and think of the possible solution to them

Objective 6, 7, 8Learning Grasshopper is useful for my future career in contemporary architectural projects. When I looked back, I’m amazed how my technical skills in grass-hopper has improved.

ReferencesFishway Precedent. Accessed October 2015. http://www.prrsum.org/sites/prrsum.org/files/UMSRS%203.24.14_AStruck.pdf

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Yuliana Kusuma [email protected]

2015