Seoul

ARC 603

Professor - Jin Young Song B/ a + p

University at Buffalo

Snap Shade + Snap Perforation

Shade from the elements

Image above_ Precedent “Traditional Asian Fans” Image right_Render of Snap System applied Facade. Image Credit_ Jin Young Song. (Image Created using Rhino + 3DS Max + Photoshop)

Snapping Facade suggests an alternative approach for the design of dynamic facade systems that use a “snapping-induced motion” to open and close apertures, providing shading for the building. The prototype explores using weakening-induced bands tied within the elastic threshold which, produce “snap” deformation with minimal stimulus.

Traditionally, unstable movement within the building construction is considered as an undesirable occurrence but, the Snapping Facade aims to harness the characteristics of elastic instability by applying it as an opening and closing mechanism using the embedded energy within the materials. Without complicated maintenance, users can participate in the dynamic movement of the building envelope for play, fun, and energy saving.

Images Below_ Snap Iteration Sequence. Represents the snap like motion through physical modeling. The model snaps and retracts with a twist of the wrist. Model is made using a laser cutter and 3D Printing for joint ed parts. (Physical Model created using Acrylics, Plastics Bristol Board 3D printed joints and wood dowel.)

Image above_ Snap Shade singular unit and snap facade aggregated unit. Image credit_ Jin Yong Song. Creating a 3D model was as important as making a physical model. To figure out the complex joinery and mesh material was firstly explored in the modeling phase. This helped trouble and helped figure out what materials would work in the physical model. (Image Created using Rhino + Post Process in Photoshop and Illustrator.)

Snap Shade. My role as a research and student assistant was to aid in the physical model and its construction. The snapping facade system essentially was designed by the professor and other student assistants. Utilizing tools such as a 3D printers and Laser cutters, the mass production of modular pieces and paper like materials were essential in the whole process. The finished result allows for shading of natural sunlight with the easy motion of a “twist”. The whole system consisted of 6 singular units that were controlled by a center joinery system.

Snap Perforation. A continuation from the “Snapping Facade” proposal, The design for the interstitial fabric and or paper like fabric that not just only bends or “snaps” with the structural system but allows plays a role to a perforated shader as well. The Ideal of creating a pattern on this secondary element came the idea of bio-organism and green life. With the collaboration with a Local artist who strictly indulgences in mimicking wild life patterns with perforations as her medium, taking these design principles and creating a pattern for one modular piece only showed the potential of endless pattern possibilities.