Research Cluster 3 3.3
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Fig. 3.1 – 3.5 Fang Han, Min-Shan Tsai ‘Lotus: Passive Deployable Canopy’. Unlike typical kinetic structures that use electrical energy and control systems to move, this project examines the potential of passive actuators (in this case wax pistons which expand and contract as they heat up and cool down) to create environmentally responsive shelters. Fig. 3.1 Physical prototype tested to confirm the range of physical transformation of the structure in response to changing temperatures. Fig. 3.2 An illustrative collage of multiple Lotus canopies installed in a town square. Fig. 3.3 The physical configuration of canopies is driven by local environmental conditions and occupancy. Figs. 3.4 – 3.5 Renders of the final canopy design. Fang Han’s research considers a passive dynamic approach to operating deployment mechanisms
inspired by natural living systems. Min-Shan Tsai’s research examines the uncertainty of computer simulation and the gap between physical outcomes and simulated results. Recognising that simulation cannot fully represent all of the changing variables in the physical environment, her thesis explored the potential of building passive environmental response into the core of a design approach. As a strategy for compensating for its unpredictability, the passive kinetic prototypes were evaluated and discussed, examining future applications.
The Bartlett School of Architecture 2014
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