OTF Week 15: Modular Approach

As the OTF student researchers come closer to presenting their final design proposal, which will be a large scale prototype, they have decided on a modular approach, using performative parts throughout the entire model.

The modules are parametrically conceived so that they have optimum performance depending on solar radiation, wind behavior and structural 3D printing reasoning, both by their own and as a whole design. The façade was conceived as a gradient in both horizontal and vertical directions, having various radiuses of self-shading, in order to optimize east and west sun.

Additionally, the modules are designed to incorporate various types of openings, in order to maximize the natural daylight potential – the openings are strategically placed and vary from micro openings to full openings between bricks are light channels ( micro perforations and channels also enhance the wind potential).

The infill of the modules is parametrically conceived so that the upper modules consist in a lighter infill, in order to ease the structure (each module is encapsulated in a grid of 44×16 cm). The modules are also designed in order to create a concave elevation, which after various solar and wind analysis, both in digital media and in physical prototyping, has been proved as being the optimum shape.