The project by Dongil Kim and Seojoo Lee from the University of California, Berkeley demonstrates a research on an agent-based aggregation model for architectural applications with a system of assembly based on environmental data acting as a driver for a growth mechanism. Even though the generative design and algorithms have been widely employed in the field of art and architecture, such applications tend to stay in morphological explorations. This paper examines an aggregation model based on the Diffusion Limited Aggregation system incorporating solar environment analysis for global perspective of aggregation, the geometry research for lattice systems, and morphological principles of unit module at local scale. The later part of this research paper demonstrates the potential of a design process through the “Constructed Cloud” case study, including site-specific applications and the implementation of the systemized rule set.

Background

The project “Constructed Cloud” showcases a specific application of the methodology in the previous session. The growth mechanism is driven by a parameter defined by the Geographic Information System. Specifically, the potential sites are office buildings in New York City that are under fifteen-story heights with leftover air right in restriction of reconstruction. An area of seed growth within a sphere of the DLA system is circumscribed by the range of the sun vector, whose direction is perpendicular to the designated volume and the area that is capable of daylight inflows for at least three hours per day. Then the data-responsive aggregation system is operated according to the specific environmental conditions.

Localized Cluster system

After the DLA model along the lattice structure of the truncated octahedron is constructed, it is grouped into several looping clusters in order to achieve structural and functional qualities on large scale from the independent integrated systems in unit scale. Each cluster can function as one or any combination of circulation, ventilation, occupiable space, utility, vegetation, space separation or visual connection. As a result, one cluster distributes the functions of among its units.

Multi-directional orientation

One unit is shaped into an asymmetric form after transformation, consequently, the clusters within the DLA model are capable of creating different configurations depends on circumstance by rotating, mirroring or duplicating units as a rule of minimal surface aggregation. Therefore, the various configurations enable the unit within each cluster to a range of different direction.

Space Organization

The aggregated model is placed on the lattice system of the truncated octahedron, so the unit spaces of each cluster are accessible from the same floor level and circulation stairs. These spaces contain a skip floor type office (4 modules), a trail type office (6 modules), a lattice type office (6 modules), a ring type office (8 modules) and a switchback type office.

Parametrize the rule set

This rule set operates from the site selection process, generative algorithm to systematic design. Therefore, the rule set can be parametrized into the selected volumetric spaces and adapted to different physical urban context and environmental conditions. This project aims to explore an environmental-factor-driven generative design process that highlights the reciprocal relationship between architecture and environment. Also, in response to the Anthropocene, the employment of systematic design in generative algorithm enables adaptable and responsive parameters in diverse environmental criterion. In this paper, Diffusion Limited Aggregation (DLA) system as a generative algorithmic language serves as a self–sun oriented aggregation model within limited volumetric parameter from global perspective. The geometry of the truncated octahedron was used as a unit of the lattice system in the DLA aggregation. The relationship between the truncated octahedron units bring about a transformation of geometry, which results in 4 outlets and 6 surfaces by the process of evolvement and degeneration. The generated form is shaped as a collection of multi-oriented units that can adapt to diverse directionality of evolvement. Also, the cavity space in the aggregation allows solar access for all units. The outcome of the aggregation represents not only the continuity of surface on aesthetic level, but also the connectivity of volumetric spaces on spatial level.

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