Space Metamorphosis
STABILITY STRATEGIES
This paragraph will illustrate strategies regarding wind deformations and structure cantilevers. Those parameters were not included in the Robot calculations as they require more parameters and assumptions. As a complement to Robot simulations, we will discuss possible strategies to prevent unsatisfactory structural behaviors caused by external forces and cantilever. These strategies will be discussed at a conceptual level pointing out advantages and disadvantages of certain solutions. Looking at the current frame of the grid it suggests a possible deformation caused lateral forces such as wind (fig 82). In order to prevent the movement of the structure, it is possible to use utility rooms as stabilizing cores for the whole building. In addition, those cores are made of concrete for energetic purposes. The concept of Space Metamorphosis suggests that the structural grid comes outside to create a greater connection between exterior and interior. The intention is to cantilever the grid, so that there are no need to support it by columns on the outside. This brings a challenge to stabilize the structure as the load applied on the cantilevered part will destabilize the structure. If we assume the grid to be a solid element it will deform as shown in the fig 83. There are different solutions to stabilize the grid, for example it would be possible to pull the other extremity in the same direction and fix it deep into the ground. This solutions requires a lot of ground work. Another solution will be to use the weight of the top floors as counterweight to balance the system. As the floor with the cantilevered structure is located on the first level, it means that we can count on the weight of three to four floors, which we assume to be enough. Another counteracting force is the weight of the many modules suspended to the structure opposing the deformation caused by the cantilevered structure. Moreover the cantilever part is partly situated in the corner between the two perpendicular building making it more stable. Regarding transport and assembly, we envision that the glue-laminated beams and main connection elements should be pre-assembled before being transferred to the site, where the primary and secondary beams would be put together. The welding of the rails should be done last in order to absorb the tolerances of the grid system assembly.
Fig 82. (opposite top) Beam bending moment Fig 83. (opposite middle) Beam bending moment when structure is cantilevered Fig 84. (opposite bottom) Ceiling expression, which also absorbs the sound
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Although acoustics is not the main focus of the project and functions do not need specific acoustic performances, the chosen structural principle allows to provide good acoustics in the common spaces where the flow of people will be the most intensive (fig 84). Because of the specific cross-section of the beam, there is a space between the grid where a secondary wooden structure is introduced in order to better absorb and minimize sound reflections while emphasizing the spatial experience of the spaces. It also helps to diffuse the light, which creates a more cozy atmosphere while having the ceiling gradually disappearing behind it. The floor finishing is polished concrete, which reflects the sound, however interior has many textile elements, such as thick curtains and soft furnitures, which absorb the sound.