Muchen Yan
MA - Computation in Architecture
Royal Danish Academy - Architecture, Design, Conservation
Installation commisioned by ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe
Professional project, participated as student research assistant Dec, 2021
Description:
Zoirotia (derived from the greek word for: vividness) explores the making of a new textile architecture exploring a soft immersive space. Knitted in vivid colours, the installation creates a new sense of tactility and connection as visitors are enveloped in a vivid colourscape. Zoirotia moves. Flexing and unflexing across deep timeframes, the structure moves in a slow rhythm, recomposing the structural forces of its form-found figure. Like in nature, the structure is dynamic and changing.
Zoirotia is made as a bending active structure supported by bespoke knitted membranes. By orchestrating the structural interaction between bent glass fibre rods braced by a stretchable knitted membrane, Zoirotia exists as a balance between forces. As a light-weight and resilient structure, the material system operates through redundancy and is able to absorb energy and shape change. The knitted membranes are graded creating a differentiation in their three-dimensionality, colour intensity and translucency.
In total 88 customised CNC knitted patches of an average dimension of 1,8 x 5m have been produced in two European knitting factories and at CITA. Zoirotia covers an area of 568sqm extending 25 x 27m and 15m in height. The installation follows previous interdisciplinary collaborations of CITA with textile design and structural engineering, which resulted in large scale Textile and CNC-knit structures, such as Vivisection (2006), Hybrid Tower (2015 & 2016) and Isoropia (2018). Here we started to develop a series of interfaces enabling the design-integrated simulation of the structure and the direct specification of the CNC knitting production.
Added substructure
Individual Tutors: Ayoub Lharchi
Description:
Collaborative Robots (Cobots) are designed with mechanisms to work closely with humans in the same space with tactile mutual communications.Their interactive and collaborative relationship with humans has also become a novel interest for artists. In the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) field, robotic digital fabrication has been explored with traditional crafting materials. Leveraging the cobots’ collaborative features, there is a huge opportunity to respond to crafting values by integrating human cognitive knowledge and decision-making abilities into digital fabrication workflows. This project aims to explore the formal possibilities that the Human-Robot collaboration is enabling. Finally, we demonstrate our purpose by presenting the current development of a novel human-robot co-creation framework, showcased by an open-ended metal wire structure.
Through Adaptive Digital Model in Metal Rods Prototyping
Sending fabricaation data from digital model
Manuel Connection and hand-on sculpting
Updating digtal model with Robot sensing
Sending fabricaation data from digital model for the next block
The experiment setup consists of a UR5e Robot arm with a customized end effector and a bending table. The end effector functions both as a rod holder and as a reference point for getting the specific position into digital model.
Human Robot Computation +
The boundaries of the subdivided block define points that the curve has to reach to ensure structural integrity
discretization based on minimizing sub-surface curvature
Sketch Design
Input: Geometry Massing
Hexagon discretization based on mesh triangulation
Rod Size: ø2mm
Max Angle: 150°
Min Angle: 3°
Best Bending Range: 10°~120°
Finding material Springback and bending limits from experiments
Deformation Analysis of shell structure and stress lines
Deformation Analysis of unweighted discretization frame structure
Deformation Analysis of weighted discretization frame structure according to stress lines
Input: Geometry Massing Input: Discretization method
Bending Angles
Visualizing bending angles on the curve to fit them in the best range
Input Design Intention(Invisible frame)
Geometry Massing + Subdivision Rules
Circulation re-programmed
The refined circulation provides a clearer visual connection from the infomation/tickets centre to the platforms. The additional layer links the stores, tickets area and dining area with a unified design language, providing a navigation guide as well as frame for lighting and space for displaying.
Selected Part For Prototyping Demonstrator
strator
Group Members:
Muchen Yan, Youwei Yen, Eepin Choo , Abdiel, Jimmy Chan
Tutors:
Ayoub Lharchi, Gabriella Rossi, Tom Svilans, Martin Tamke, Paul Nichola
Discription:
In this project, we studied and devloped cellulose based biodegradable materials for 3D printed architecture. We proposed and tested hybrid material printing methods to combine the properties of different composites, and then envisioned a breathable wall using the hydroscopy properties of biobased materials. Experiments were designed and conducted to verify our hypothesis where sensing technology were utilized for quantatitive analysis.
Initial Material Study
Recipe: 619 g water + 13.7 g CaCl2 + 68 g glycerol + 15 g Xanthan gum + 60 g wood flour + ?
Tension Samples
Compression Samples
Cotton Cotton + Paper Floc
Cotton
Cotton + Paper Floc
Vermiculite + Paper Floc
Bark + Paper Floc
Bi-Material Printing Study
Boundary Wall
Infill
Tension Strength
Cotton
Cotton Cotton
Cotton + Paper Vermiculite + Paper Bark + Paper
Vermicuite + Paper Floc Bark + Paper Floc
As we studied the material propertiees, we found that the recipes with Bark and Vermiculite shows better structural performance and less deformation after drying, therefore would be ideal to use for the ‘bones’ of a stucture. While the recipe cotton shows elasticities in the product, which can adapt to tolerance. Therefore we tested a bi-material printing method to use a stiffer material as infill and an elastic material as the boundary wall.
Hydroscopy describes the ability of a material to absorb (absorption) and release (desorption) moisture from the surrounding atmosphere to constantly maintain a relative equilibrium with its surrounding environment
To examine how the variables for humidities affect the moderation capability of the material (as a facade system), experiments are designed as such:
Two four-sided-insulated boxes are cover with the cellulose samples as cap, placed inside an enclosed box. Water will be boiled in the big box to increase the moisture to 100%, and we will observe how the moisure is passed to the small boxes through the cellulose samples
As we are shifting towards a more sustainable built environment, architects are encouraged to take passive design approach with respect to environmental conditions and materials. The hydroscopic behaviours of materials means that they can store and release moisture and therefore moderate local temperature. The aim of this research is investigate the hydroscopic behaviours of a range of printable bio-hybrid materials, and utilize their distinctive behaviours to create a hybrid system for passive cooling.
Variables for Humidity
As we are shifting towards a more sustainable built environment, architects are encouraged to take passive design approach with respect to environmental conditions
Inspired by timber framed eco wall, we proposed a bio-hybrid eco-wall using various cellulose based materials.
Moisture in Boxes
Above shows 2 of a series of graphs we produced
Findings:
• Sample takes moisture from both environments (Big box and small box)
Moisture in Samples
With robotic 3d printing technology, the materials are easily shaped to desired pattern and porosity, responding to the required properties of each layer in the eco-wall.
Moisture in Boxes
Moisture in Samples
• Cotton: Releases Moisture into box quickly at the start, while preventing moisture from escaping the box continuously.
• Vermiculite: Shields Moisture into the box effectively, resulting in a slow increase of in-box humidity.
Night and Morning in Desert Climate Daytime in Desert Climate
Group Members:
Muchen Yan, Maya, Bjorn, Linus, Damo, Abdiel, Andrew
Tutors:
Ayoub Lharchi, Gabriella Rossi, Tom Svilans, Martin Tamke, Paul Nichola
Discription:
In this project, we utilizie the engineering tool Bi-Directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization (BESO) as a design tool. By manipulating the input force, material parameters and support points/lines, designers have control over a series of optimised structure. The robust outcomes are then used as a design start point for further developments.
In this project, we utilizie the engineering tool Bi-Directional Evolutionary Structural Optimization (BESO) as a design tool. By manipulating the input force, material parameters and support points/lines, designers have control over a series of optimised structure. The robust outcomes are then used as a design start point for further developments.
After tested a few iterations, we adopted the input parameters with support points and lines as shown in diagram above, which gives a result close to our expectation. With that, we smoothened and developed the mesh with blender to achieve an outcome as the picture to the right. Ideally, the skeleton has a similar structural strength to an enclosed dome panel.
Collaborated with other groups in the workshop, we developed a hybrid-material system, in which the metal frame functions as the structural element, the connector to both facade and interior panels, as well as a scaffolding for vertical vegetations.
Discription:
My undergraduate thesis is proposing a new learning complex as part of the University high school in Melbourne, consists of general learning areas, Renaissance centre and Sports Department. The proposed area will mainly be serving grade 11-12 VCE students and partially to be potentially rented out for public events during school holidays .
The intention of this project is to create a highschool with spacial and emotional qualities derived from collective dwelling, to create a more intimate and friendly environment. The leading strategy is to resolve the bulky building volume into smaller volumes and dispersed to varying planes based on village typology studies, to promote more dynamic circulations and intriguing experiences.
Major paths branches out endless pathways and lead to indivisual houses. the major paths are connected and looped even though them seem orderless. The planning seems very free but it still allow people to get to anypoint.
Theory of Phenomenology: Intricate memories of place are often derived from intricate forms of detail allowing a bond, beyond physical use of a building, an experience, to become ingrained in memory.
In traditional classroom arrangement, students go through central corridor and turn to their assigned classroom directly.
When breaking the building block to smaller volumes, the overall space forms a composition of ‘villilage’, where pathways and stops with intimate scale are created.
Based on the research of village typology, the pathways and stops forms semi-public space and public space to encourage people staying around and communicate.
South view - Learning and renaissance area
East view - Auditorium and corridor Westsouth view -Learning and renaissance area
Piscina Mirabilis is a Roman reservoir built by Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD, in order to feed with drinking water the headquarter of his western Mediterranean war fleet. It was dug out a tuff hill, and it is based on a regular grid of pillars and arcs, with vaulted ceilings.
Participants of this competition are asked to reuse this space as a Contemporary Art Museum. The refurbishment intends to create connections between the underground structure with above ground activities, providing programs for a variety of contemporary art and public activities.
Ancient Roman aqueduct
The Piscina Mirabilis is located in the present day Municipality of Bacoli, up the hill facing the sea in the bay of Naples. It was realized during the Augustan Age as the terminal reservoir of the Augustan aqueduct Serino-Neapolis-Misenum.
Located closed to the lake plaza and on the small hill hiden in residential section, the restoration of Piscina Mirabilis is envisioned as a combination of attraction for tourists and community centre for local residents.
Pozzuoli
Cuma
Piscina Mirabilis
Existing
Framed basin on top of the openings, filtering the light coming through as well as emphasising on the aquaduct archeologic features. Before starting the exhibition, we aim to create a ceremonial experience that pulls the visitor out of the realistic world. Entrance to the underground guides visitors to walk down through water, while the basin extends to visually connected to the Lake Miseno downhill.
Water filtered skylights creates an everchanging lighting experience for underground space.
First moment - the exhibition journey starts at the middle of the cistern. This platform point will appear in view again at the end of the journey in this section. After an initial glimpse of the horizontal and vertical depths in the center of the reservoir, the paths lead deeper, as if exploring a forest, with exhibits appearing unexpectedly along the journey.
Stairs and platforms around the columns allow visitors to explore the ruins from different angles, while exhibits are placed at different heights in transparent display cases for all-round viewing.
Staircase and platforms structually independent to the existing columns
The underground space is mainly illuminated by the water-filtered natural light, which created an ambiguous space that stimulates other sensations. Visitors are ‘walking on the water’ by a path paved by perforated metal grids on the shallow layer of water at the bottom. Major materials used underground are metal mesh, reflective floor panels and glass for a minimum confliction between modern materials and historical relics. The proposed path and curation are derived from a series of ‘moments’, created by viewcontrol and natural light.
Exhibition Sequence based on view analysis (View simulation)
Tutor: David Short
Discription:
This project explores senses and moments and led to a brief encompassed houses for young families and old people. The chosen site is in the walled garden in Welbeck Estate, nestled within Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire. It historically served as a kitchen garden. Started with the major challenge and feature on the site:--the garden wall, this project proposes an elevated ground on the sides which serves as retreat space as well as a cover for parking space, and creating a 3-dimentional circulation, allowing direct access to community centres and visual connection among public space. Therefore, the restriction can be converted into facilities, and the needs for both family types can be coordinated.
The site is located in the walled garden in Welbeck Estate, residence of the Dukes of Portland, which was featured by a tunnel complex that radiated out from the abbey. These tunnels are of great architectural and historical value with a mixture of the Italian and classical styles, built at different periods.
Family Visit Shallow Sleep Growing need
Underground tunnel
Underground tunnel-Intersection Tunnel entrance
The main form is derieved from the featuring tunnels which intersects and form spaces with difference qualities. The half arch tunnel form is reshaped to generate a sequence of compositions.
activities circulation tunnel heritage Quiet Rest
Intersecting Type 1 two spaces can communicate but the top space has more privacy.
Intersecting Type 2 Intersecting Type 3
two spaces has equal privacy wth visual isolation, but still connected in space
As the smaller volume is wrapped in the larger volume, a graduate change of privacy is created. The extruding roof also introduces more natural light.
Intersecting Type 4 Intersecting Type 5
using combined smaller volumns to form a large universal space. lighting is introduced by overlapped roof.
Creating more touch between interor and exteror space, separating space without interrupting circulation
Intersecting Type 6
two spaces have only visual connection but not continuous in space
Age 65-85 0-2 kids
Entry-mid level income Not living with kids Leisure play
Social need Social need
Partly work at home Health Problems nursery
chosen site Needs of Young Family Needs of Elderly Family
Undisturbed work space Leisure Space Potential Space Accompany
Accessibility Sunlight Community space
Child Care Freelance Potential Child Space
Events Gardens + Workshops
Local Markets Adaptable Programs FlatPlan/ Slope Playing space Accessible System Kids caring system Guest Space
Isolated working area Isolated resting area Cafe/Retreat
A big challenge on this site is the 3m brick wall around the garden. The high wall casts shadow and people standing beside feel constricted and repressed.
Architecture Decoration
The proposed design elevated the ground to trnasform the restriction to facility: the useless wall serves as balustrade and the space below serves as garages where doesn’t need a lot lighting.
TUNNEL TYPE 1
WINDOW TYPE 1
TUNNEL TYPE 2
WINDOW TYPE 2
Starting from the existing garden wall, this project proposes an elevated ground on the sides which serves as retreat space as well as a cover for parking space, and creating a 3-dimentional circulation, allowing direct access to community centres and visual connection among public space. Therefore, the restriction can be converted into facilities, and the needs for both family types can be coordinated.
Intersecting type 01
kids’ room intersection with living room, facilitating parents to know kids’ condition immediately in living room/working area if any emergency happens. Young kids will also feel more comfortable when parents are in their sight range.
Access to balcony on the elevated ground from master room
Activity room facing community centre, encouraging interactions ith other neibouring kids.
Intersecting type 02--
redirecting from central area, creating a comparably isolated room facing yard for dinning.
Driveway leading to the garage under the elevated ground
Intersecting type 03--
As the smaller volume(bedroom) is wrapped in the larger volume (study), a graduate change of privacy is created. The extruding roof also introduces more natural light.
Intersecting type 04--
The overlapped roof introduces natural light to a universal space (garage)
Intersecting type 05--
the building blocks intersects to not only naturally define the spaces of garage, living and social, but also creates separated space for powder room and corridors.
While interaction and product design are using data-driven methods on a daily basis, not only similar data but also methods for making use of such data for designing architectural space is missing. The spatial design feedback loop is broken, as we lack quantitative assessment systems that reveal experience and interaction from the user's perspective. This project presents the first of its kind development of a spatial assessment and design methodology utilizing Augmented Reality headsets, aiming to fill the gaps in the spatial design iteration loop.
Aim
Iterative Design Loop
Spatial Design Iteration Loop
Study A
Room scale 25m²
Site: CITA Studio
Participate: Architecture student
Design Content: Exhibition setup
Findings: Attention Mapping method
a spatial assessment and design methodology with Augmented Reality headsets, aiming at filling the gaps in the spatial design iteration loop
Attention Mapping
Study B
Large interior 1240m²
Site: KADK Building J
Participate: Architecture student
Design Content: Virtual art
Findings: Hologram limitations,Faro Scanner Point cloud processing
Study C
Exterior 600m²
Site: Islands Brygge
Participate: Architecture student
Design Content: Installation setup
Findings: Shaping circulation Exterior conditions
Study D
Real architecture project
Site: Glypotheket
Architects: Rørbæk&Røller Architects
Design Content: Restorations/ Exhibitions
Findings: AR performance Interactive Feedback
Attention
Study C focuses on observing the impacts of virtual interventions on people’s spatial behaviour and testing the workflow for evaluating design efficacy. The site was chosen on an open square, and a series of virtual walls were set up as a draft exhibition design example. With data recorded in Hololens2, the case study observes if the designed walls can direct people to follow the proposed path and find the exit without signs, and where are the problems in navigation.
Aim State of Art Relevance Method Experiments Discussion View from Hololens2 Mapping
Above are two major quantitative measures in this experiment, which are cross referenced to qualitative measures collected by on the spot recordings and follow-up interviews.
In Study D, the current gallery setup was modified by the virtual hologram setups: a proposed juxtaposition of modern and classic Danish Art was designed, by repositioning some existing artworks and adding contemporary artworks in an augmented environment. Visitor’s behaviour data under both existing environment and augmented setups were tracked, visualized and analyzed for further design reference.
The recorded positions and directions are processed into heatmap. Area of interest(AOI) was found for areas where more than 5 points are within distance of 30cm, which indicates that the gaze stays for more than 1s. The fixation sequence is then labelled to show what is prioritized bya participant when they perceive the space (Krajbich et al. 2011).
Gaze Heatmap
Wall removal - recolouring Move existing objects
Interactive Feedback
Area of Interest(AOI) and Fixation Sequence
Professional Projects 2018-2020
