BIOMIMICRY RESEARCH - FINDING A PRECEDENT

EXAMPLES OF BIOMIMICRY

Janine Benyus, advocator for biomimicry gives examples for its practical use in buildings and other systems:

Buildings:

• Leaf-inspired self-cleaning surfaces for auto paints, building facades, and fabrics.
• Cactus-inspired building skin that is self-shading and cooling.
• Termite-inspired building in Zimbabwe that uses natural air flows and requires no airconditioning
• Polar bear-inspired building in Singapore that erects it’s “fur” to shelter itself when temperatures change
• Mussel-inspired glue for formaldehyde-free plywood
• Nautilus-inspired fans that minimize energy use and cut noise
• Beetle-inspired fog harvester for building skins

Energy:

• Bacteria-inspired replacement for expensive platinum in fuel cells
• Algae-inspired catalyst for solar hydrogen production
• Leaf-inspired dye-sensitive thin films for inexpensive solar cells
• Whale flipper-inspired drag reduction for wind turbines blade

Water:

• Insect-inspired dehumidification for HVAC systems

Paints and Coatings:

• Peacock-inspired color using structure rather than paint
• Mollusk-inspired corrosion and scale reduction for pipes
• Algae-inspired non-toxic antifouling paint for boats
• Gecko-inspired adhesive coatings that use no glue
• Moth-eye-inspired coating for solar cell

SOURCE:http://www.gcf.org.sa/Documents/Janine%20Benyus%201.pdf

"Biomimicry is the science and art of emulating Nature's best biological ideas to solve human problems. Carbon-sequestering cement inspired by corals and energy efficient wind turbines inspired by schooling fish are examples of biomimicry happening today."

SOURCE: http://www.asknature.org/article/view/what_is_biomimicry

SUN FOR ENERGY

I plan on creating a sustainable building which looks to nature for passive systems. One important system would be passive solar, which can be very effective. I will look further into how different organisms carry out these processes.

"Metabolism, Storage Rhythm. All living things rely ultimately on the Sun for energy, and without it they are unsustainable. Living things have a metabolism, a sophisticated method of collecting, utilising and storing energy. Those that rely directly on the Sun for energy move in a rhythm with it.Responsiveness, Homoeostasis.Living things speculate – they use energy gained to search for more energy, and use the energy to maintain a thermal equilibrium or homeostasis.Responsiveness/Rhythm: Edelweiss"

SOURCE: http://issuu.com/salberti/docs/theory3-23

MORPHO BUTTERFLIES FOR ENVELOPE:

Building on my design concept for my folie, which was to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the site, I wanted to find a way for the building to attract people to the site to appreciate and experience its beauty. The Morpho butterfly is an example in nature which uses reflective colour to be seen from great distances. This sustainable technology has been employed in the built environment in creating surfaces and paints that use less dyes and toxins and relies on reflection to create colour (see how it works: http://www.mirasoldisplays.com/mobile-display-imod-technology). From the walkshop, I looked at how the site is approached. At various intervals throughout the city and riverside, the Story Bridge and site can be viewed. By creating a spectacle that can be seen from various points, and not seen (using the butterfly’s camouflage techniques) throughout the city, people will be attracted to the site.

• Morpho butterflies have certain reflective properties that have previously been used in colour and display technology. "The technology uses Interferometric Modulation to reflect light so only the desired color is visible to the eye in each individual pixel of the display."
• Colour is the result of irredesence:the microscopic scales covering the Morpho's wings reflect incident light repeatedly at successive layers, leading to interference effects that depend on both wavelength and angle of incidence/observance (successive layers).
• These butterflies can see other butterflies from great distances, where males attract females for means of reproduction.

SOURCE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morpho

"The underside of the morpho’s wings, on the other hand, is a dull brown color with many eyespots, providing camouflage against predators such as birds and insects when its wings are closed. When the blue morpho flies, the contrasting bright blue and dull brown colors flash, making it look like the morpho is appearing and disappearing. The males’ wings are broader than those of the females and appear to be brighter in color. Blue morphos, like other butterflies, also have two clubbed antennas, two fore wings and two hind wings, six legs and three body segments -- the head, thorax and abdomen."

Inspired sketches

http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/kids/species-profiles/blue-butterfly

For more information click here: http://en.butterflycorner.net/Morpho-rhetenor-BlueMorpho.448.0.html

bumblebees FOR THERMOREGULATION:

The body of bumblebees maintains a regular temperature via counter-current heat exchange and a heat-shunting mechanism:

"1. The narrow passage within the petiole between thorax and abdomen is anatomically constructed so that counter-current exchange should retain heat in the thorax despite blood flow to and from the cool abdomen. "2. However, the counter-current heat exchanger can be physiologically circumvented. Exogenously heated bumblebees prevented overheating of the thorax by shunting heat into the abdomen. They also regurgitated fluid, which helped to reduce head temperature but had little effect on thoracic temperature. "3. Temperature increases in the ventrum of the abdomen occurred in steps exactly coinciding with the beats of the ventral diaphragm, and with the abdominal 'ventilatory' pumping movements when these were present. The ability to prevent overheating of the thorax by transport of heat to the abdomen was abolished when the heart was made inoperative. "4. At low thoracic temperatures the ventral diaphragm beat at a wide range of rates and with varying interbeat intervals, while the heart beat at a high frequency relative to the ventral diaphragm, but at a very low amplitude. However, when thoracic temperature exceeded 43 °C the amplitudes of both were high, and the interbeat intervals as well as the beating frequencies of the two pulsatile organs became identical in any one bee. Furthermore, heated bees engaged in vigorous abdominal pumping at the same frequency as that of their heart and ventral diaphragm pulsations. "5. The results indicate that the anatomical counter-current heat exchanger is reduced or eliminated during heat stress by 'chopping' the blood flow into pulses, and the blood pulses are shunted through the petiole alternately by way of a switch mechanism." (Heinrich 1976:561) Biomimetic Application Ideas:

Variable heat exchange system design, utilizing external fluid as heat sink Building that condenses water with thermal mass or active cooling systems, and use externally to cool SOURCE: http://asknature.org/strategy/4c4069119506292fdd3fb0f96be4caa3 TERMITE MOUNDS FOR PASSIVE COOLING "In a termite mound, the cool wind is drawn into the base of the mound via channels and the ‘coolth’ is stored using wet soil. As the air warms, it flows upwards and out of the mound via vents. The termite mounds are able to keep a stable temperature within, allowing the termites an ideal temperature for harvesting, despite the large variations in temperature outside. The termites reside within the air ducts, working within the natural convection currents." The concept of termite mounds systems can be used in the planning of a building where the simple design and system that termites build to control the temperature of a termite mound can be translated into the air conditioning and passive cooling/ventilation systems of a building. SOURCE: ttp://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Environment/CH2/DesignDelivery/Documents/CH2_Snapshot11.pdf STENOCARA BEETLE FOR WATER COLLECTION The Stenocara beetle is a master water collector. The small black bug lives in a harsh, dry desert environment and is able to survive thanks to the unique design of its shell. The Stenocara's back is covered in small, smooth bumps that serve as collection points for condensed water or fog. The entire shell is covered in a slick, Teflon-like wax and is channeled so that condensed water from morning fog is funneled into the beetle's mouth. SOURCE: http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/wilderness-resources/photos/7-amazing-examples-of-biomimicry/bug-water-collection PINE CONE FOR INTERACTIVE BUILDING ENVELOPE During the lifecycle of the pinecone, it opens and closes during different points of its life, often dependent on the conditions which surround it. For instance, the pinecone scales grow in order to protect its seeds after being fertilised. Then, those scales close to allow for the seeds to develop. Once the seeds are ready, those scales will open to release the seeds — allowing them to fly away as far as possible.When the weather is moist, those same scales remain closed (so the seeds cannot escape). When the weather is dry, those scales open to ensure that the seeds are leaving at the right time. So, when the weather is dry those seeds can travel furthest as they are not weighed down. This process may inspire a design where a building could grow certain parts of its skin at certain times of the day/year etc. Perhaps this building skin could resemble a chameleon which changes much more than its color. Its functions could change dependent on its relative conditions, both inside and out. It could create a new kind of scaffolding or inner mechanism that adapts to different phases of its lifecycle. SOURCE: http://sensingarchitecture.com/3848/reinventing-buildings-with-biomimicry-my-pinecone/

BIOMIMICRY

BIOMIMICRY: SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE INSPIRED BY NATURE

What Is Biomimicry?

"Biomimicry (from bios, meaning life, and mimesis, meaning to imitate) is a design discipline that seeks sustainable solutions by emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies, e.g., a solar cell inspired by a leaf. The core idea is that Nature, imaginative by necessity, has already solved many of the problems we are grappling with: energy, food production, climate control, non-toxic chemistry, transportation, packaging, and a whole lot more." Biomimicry means looking for sustainable solutions by vigorously inquiring and learning from nature about form, structure, system, management, materiality and process. The idea is that animals, plants and microbes are consummate engineers. Throughout the evolution of the earth, nature has found what works, what is appropriate, and most importantly, what stands the test of time. "Biomimicry differs from other 'bio-approaches' by consulting organisms and ecosystems and applying the underlying design principles to our innovations. This approach introduces an entirely new realm for entrepreneurship that can contribute not only innovative designs and solutions to our problems but also to awakening people to the importance of conserving the biodiversity on Earth that has so much yet to teach us. "

SOURCE: http://www.asknature.org/article/view/what_is_biomimicry

3 LEVELS

1. Organism
2. Behaivour
3. Ecosystem

5 DIMENSIONS

1. Form
2. Material
3. Constitution
4. Process
5. Function

NATURE AS MODEL, MENTOR AND MEASURE:

Model: Biomimicry is a new science that studies Nature’s models and then emulates these forms, processes, systems, and strategies to solve human problems – sustainably.

Mentor: Biomimicry is a new way of viewing and valuing nature. It introduces an era based not on what we can extract from the natural world, but what we can learn from it.

Measure: Biomimicry uses an ecological standard to judge the sustainability of our innovations. After 3.8 billion years of evolution, Nature has learned what works and what lasts.

SOURCE: http://www.asknature.org/article/view/what_is_biomimicry

SUMMARY:

WHY...

WHAT...

WHERE...

HOW...

LIKE...

• Biomimicry: looking at nature as a model, measure and mentor.
  
• Sustainability issues.
• Global crisis: energy, oil.
• Emulating - goes further than imitating - consciously emulating nature's genius means viewing and valuing the natural world differently.
• Identify problems - seek advice from nature.
• Challenge to biology.
• 2 approaches: 1. design looking to biology, 2. biology influencing design.
• Issues and constraints - look to biology for design solutions.

ANALYTICAL MAPS OF THE SITE - DETERMINING WHAT IS NEEDED

Conceptual Map

This map shows some of the main elements in the site's vicinity. Mainly the River and some key buildings, as well as the grid formation of the city design. The school, as highlighted in red to the left of the bridge, is in close proximity to the site, so the building may function as something that may be used by the school. This approach would activate the site through the building program.

City Pattern

This diagram shows the pattern of the city and shapes created in a more general sense. From this diagram you can see the large number of main roads, surrounding the site with traffic and activity. However it can also be seen that the site is disjointed from it's surroundings and lacks ease of access and visual connection due to the topography.

Figure Ground Map

The figure ground map gives a detailed analysis of the surrounding areas; the All Hallows school to the upper left, high density residential to the left, commercial to the upper right, and residential area to the right. It would be ideal to make the function of this building something that could be used by all surrounding building typologies.

Functional Analysis

By looking at the city at a large scale through a functional analysis, it can be seen that the site is surrounded by residential, commercial and multi-use zones. The All Hallows school is in close proximity. The site is lacking recreation and cultural areas as well as green spaces and public parks.

IDEAS:

I plan to build a hybrid building to add to the buildings sustainability and efficiency. By making the building multi-functional this may cover more of the needs of the site. I looked into building a library as part of my hybrid building as the area is lacking in these:

The presence of the nearby school would activate this site, as well as the surrounding residents. A multi-functional/flexible space would also provide a space for events, exhibitions, functions and lectures to occur on site, which also links back to my concept - catering for uniqueness. This however may be too broad and I may have to narrow the function of this space to something more specific although still flexible.

Greenspace also seems to be lacking in the surrounding areas where this will offer a relaxing retreat in the sites unique surroundings, and if coupled with a library, would provide an ideal place to read and learn.

ANALYTICAL SKETCHES

A few sketches showing the unique perspectives that the site has to offer...

The site offers a unique perspective of the bridge - the view from underneath. From looking up at this point the bridge appears larger and more grand and overwhelming to the viewer.

The site also offers the unique perspective of being able to view both directions of the river at the same time from this point. It is possible to see the different conditions on each side; natural and commercial.

The site has a unique natural landscape. The vertical wall of vegetation offers a unique perspective of a landscape, where these are usually flat and horizontal. The river forms a horizontal landscape which appears vast from this point due to its position on a bend. The bridge is a man-made structure which forms a horizontal element in the site along with its vertical column.

These perspectives can be utilised in my design and may play a part in the design concept or program.

FURTHER SITE ANALYSIS - UNIQUENESS OF THE SITE

What is unique about the site?

• The site offers a unique perspective of the bridge (the view of underneath the bridge and looking up at it) - no where else can you experience the bridge in this way. From this perspective, the bridge appears more overwhelming and large. It makes sense to take advantage of this unique experience and to enhance it.
• Different angle - different perspective - different experience
• Framing of views (under the bridge, through the bridge, over the bridge).
• Opportunity to get up and close to the bridge.
• Close proximity to bridge and cliff.
• The position of the site on the river - at a bend - unique view of both directions of the river.
• Vertical landscape of the cliffs combined with a horizontal landscape of the cliffs

The wharfs are at a bend in the river. The nature of this bend encloses the site and also gives a unique opportunity for a split view of both directions of the river.

WEEK 5: FOLIE FEEDBACK

After the exhibition and speaking with Yvonne in the tutorial this week, it became clear that in order to enhance my concept I must take a more 'in depth' focus on the bridge and the impact that it has on the site. In my Folie design I focused on the beauty of the site and in particular the bridge's presence in the site. In the next project I want to build on these founding ideas and take a slightly different approach in focusing on the uniqueness of the site and what opportunities it creates for the viewer.

Yvonne asked me why I thought the site was unique and gave me the task of analysing the site further in these terms.

FINAL FOLIE PANEL

FOLIE JUSTIFICATION

The Archi-Folie Design Proposal offers a unique experience for those who may stumble upon its existence. The location of the Folie, the Howard Smith Wharves at New Farm is a unique, yet often forgotten about, place. Amongst its busy urban surroundings, this site sits contrastingly in their midst. The Howard Smith Wharves are nestled into a bend in the Brisbane River beneath the Story Bridge.

The Howard Smith Wharves are the calm in the middle of a bustling city. It is a place where man-made structures meet nature. It is a connecting element between the bridge, the river and the valley. This site of connectivity offers a unique encounter within the urban environment. What can be found here is history, natural scenery and captivating structures.

The Folie that I have designed encapsulates these elements. The purpose of my Folie is to evoke an appreciation of the uniqueness of the site within its urban context. The inspiration for the form was primarily taken from the Story Bridge. At first, one may be overwhelmed by the chaos and randomness of the bridges’ form and activity. However, when one seeks the time to linger and appreciate the structure they may find inspiration in its presence.

From the chaos, stems a random order where a rhythm emerges and a pattern becomes more apparent. The truss system of the bridge clarifies and an understanding occurs. The bridge filters light through its body and shadows stretch across the ground below. My aim in designing this Folie was to bring the beauty from above, to the site, so that they may be reminded of its magnificence.

The Folie captures these special moments and is reminiscent of its form. Made from triangular 'truss' shapes, these structures are angled to create a sense of randomness, whereby on closer inspection, these are arranged within an array of identical trusses. As the pattern becomes more apparent, it is clarified through the horizontal repetition of the trusses which create a seating area for pedestrians to rest, eat or read. Like the site, the Folie is a refuge from the busy city life. As well as providing an open viewing station of the Story Bridge, the Folie can also be viewed from the structure itself, creating a stimulating form for bridge-goers to admire. At night the Folie becomes a spectacle, lighting up its surroundings and activating the site after dusk. This also serves a functional purpose in creating a safer, more illuminated pathway to walk through at night.

As the Folie is experienced, the layers of the story unfold. The beauty is not only found in its structural form but also in the shadowy patterns that it creates. Interesting shapes sprawl over the ground around you whilst sitting underneath its rigid structure, both from the Folie and from the Story Bridge. The Folie is an exposed structure and is open to the elements and nature. Through this activation of the Howard Smith Wharves site with the Folie design, this location may become a destination, rather than a random encounter.

FINAL DESIGN STAGES OF FOLIE

Developed Folie Design:

Sketch up massing models:3D aerial perspective showing shadow pattern and form:
View of Folie from footpath:
Technical drawing:

Elevations:

FOLIE DEVELOPMENT

I chose to play around with the idea of the geometrics of the bridge and creating a Folie that brings the feeling of the bridge to the site.

I looked at using the shape of a truss to create a structure. I wanted to use the aspects of repetition and tectonics. I experimented with a model to create a form. This is was I came up with:

This form lacked the functionality of the Folie as a resting area so i experimented more with form and to make it more 3D...

This design demonstrates my concept and bridge analogy that from the chaos and randomness of the structure, a pattern and order emerges...

CONCEPTUAL DEVELOPMENT: RANDOM ORDER

Model making in the Workshop:

Whilst making the model, I focused on creating a structure which mimicked the the randomness and chaos of the bridges trusses. Whilst these may appear at first to have no order, a pattern emerges from this chaos: a random order.

Here are some other brainstorming ideas about the site and my concept:

• the rhythm and the structure of the bridge - lights and shadows and frames.
• random order.
• bring the beauty from above to the site and see the beauty of the structure from the bridge.
• peaceful site - calm in the middle of the city, the site is a quiet spot amongst a busy area (valley/kangaroo point/bridge/river).
• the site is a shelter, a refuge from the busy city.
• it is a site of connectivity (3 elements join at the site).
• the folie should remind one of/appreciate the beauty/views of the site (frame them).
• the folie activates the site at night (site is isolated at night).