abstract: In geographical locations with hot-arid climates, sun control in buildings is one primary problem to solve for the building envelope design. Today's technological advances in building science bring with them the opportunity to design dynamic façade systems for sun radiation control and daylighting. Although dynamic systems can become an attractive visual element, they can be costly and challenging to maintain for building owners. Alternatively, fixed solar-shading systems can be designed to create dynamism in the façade of the building, while providing similar functionalities for sun control. The work presented in this project focuses on the use of a visual scripting editor for modeling software, Grasshopper, to develop a Solar Control Visual Script that evaluates building envelope surfaces with planar and non-uniform rational basis-spline (NURBS) forms and provides projections for fixed sun control systems. The design platform of Grasshopper allows individuals with no experience or prior computer coding education to build up programming-like capabilities; this feature permits users to discover new design possibilities within flexible frames that can contribute to the overall design being pursued, while also having an environmental response. The Solar Control Visual Script provides minimum sizing geometries that achieve shading in openings at a particular date and time of the year. The model for this method of analysis makes use of three components to derive the appropriate values for the projections of shading geometries: typical meteorological year (TMY) data, irradiation isotropic equations and shading profile angles equations for vertical and tilted surfaces. Providing an automatic visual of generated geometries uncovers the opportunity to test several model forms and reiterates the analysis when modifying control parameters. By employing building science as a set of environmental parameters, the design outcome bears a dynamic form that responds to natural force conditions. The optimized results promote an efficient environmental design solution for sun control as an integral alternative into the building envelope. / Dissertation/Thesis / M.S. Built Environment 2012

The emergence of freeform architecture provides interesting geometric challenges with regards to the design and manufacturing of large-scale structures. To design these architectural structures, we have to consider two types of constraints. First, aesthetic constraints are important because the buildings have to be visually impressive. Sec- ond, functional constraints are important for the performance of a building and its e cient construction. This thesis contributes to the area of architectural geometry. Specifically, we are interested in the geometric rationalization of freeform architec- ture with the goal of combining aesthetic and functional constraints and construction requirements. Aesthetic requirements typically come from designers and architects. To obtain visually pleasing structures, they favor smoothness of the building shape, but also smoothness of the visible patterns on the surface. Functional requirements typically come from the engineers involved in the construction process. For exam- ple, covering freeform structures using planar panels is much cheaper than using non-planar ones. Further, constructed buildings have to be stable and should not collapse. In this thesis, we explore the geometric rationalization of freeform archi- tecture using four specific example problems inspired by real life applications. We achieve our results by developing optimization algorithms and a theoretical study of the underlying geometrical structure of the problems. The four example problems are the following: (1) The design of shading and lighting systems which are torsion-free structures with planar beams based on quad meshes. They satisfy the functionality requirements of preventing light from going inside a building as shad- ing systems or reflecting light into a building as lighting systems. (2) The Design of freeform honeycomb structures that are constructed based on hex-dominant meshes with a planar beam mounted along each edge. The beams intersect without torsion at each node and create identical angles between any two neighbors. (3) The design of polyhedral patterns on freeform surfaces, which are aesthetic designs created by planar panels. (4) The design of space frame structures that are statically-sound and material-e cient structures constructed by connected beams. Rationalization of cross sections of beams aims at minimizing production cost and ensuring force equilibrium as a functional constraint.

This research delves into the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing wind-powered shading systems in architectural design to enhance energy efficiency and promote environmental sustainability. With an ever increasing demand for energy in commercial buildings, particularly in heating, cooling, and lighting, innovative solutions are crucial in addressing these challenges. The proposed solution centers on dynamic shading systems that adjust autonomously to environmental factors, thanks to advancements in construction and information technologies. Piezoelectric wind harnessing devices are at the heart of this investigation, powering kinetic shading systems that offer a renewable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional energy sources. However, implementing such systems presents technical challenges such as device optimization, compatibility with dynamic movement, and reliability in real-world applications. Through empirical research and experimentation, these challenges are comprehensively explored and addressed. The study seeks to assess the practicality and effectiveness of wind-powered shading systems in reducing energy consumption, improving thermal comfort, and enhancing overall building performance. By considering factors such as architectural integration, heat, light management, and adaptability to environmental conditions, the research aims to contribute to the advancement of sustainable building practices. Ultimately, the findings provide valuable insights into the potential of wind-powered shading systems to mitigate energy usage and promote environmental stewardship in architectural design. / Master of Architecture / This Thesis Explores the design and evaluation of origami-inspired kinetic shading system driven by piezoelectric technology to convert wind power to electricity. By examining the behavior and utility of this piezoelectric dynamic folding shading system, it enhances our understanding of how to integrate renewable energy into building designs for a more sustainable future.