Introduction
The aim of this research project was to explore the link between nature, architecture and computers. It is fair to say that this broad subject was covered relatively thoroughly in the short time granted and a number of various paths were discussed. Original thoughts early in the semester involved the creation and manipulation of natural fibers or naturally occurring structures using the computer. The second stage would have involved exploring these structures in relation to their economic use of materials. An installation or small architectural canopy would have been created on the UWA campus using the structure as the main aesthetic.
After further research into my topic I came across Theo Jansen’s kinetic sculptures known as ‘Strandbeests’. I found these moving sculptures made out of straws and empty plastic bottles extremely fascinating and their link to nature is quite obvious. New thoughts entered my head about possibly simulating these structures myself in the muse of nature, which are affected by nature itself (wind).
Wind turbine, particularly those that spin around a horizontal axis/shaft as opposed to the standard windmill were studied however the end product sought out to be more than just produce energy, it attempted to create a practical module that was aesthetically stimulating for the city of Perth.
Site
Perth is one of the windiest cities in the world yet it fails to fully harness the potentials of wind energy. Wind turbines are used throughout Western Australia to good effect and I think it needs to be introduced to Perth, perhaps if not my proposal then some turbines on the river would create massive amounts of energy. The site is buffeted with southerly winds while at the same time the large buildings running down St Georges Terrace create a wind tunnel from the North west.
The proposed site is the space between the buildings that occupy number 150 and 137 St Georges Terrace, Perth, Western Australia. Number 150 is, at the moment, relatively low level and the small tower is proposed for this site to control the energy requirements of the power created and to provide structure for one side of the wind turbine. The other side will be held up by the building on 150 St Georges Terrace. The wind turbine will be situated to maxamise the wind tunnel effect the larger buildings along the terrace create. Perth is generally a very windy city all year round. Further more it will provide aesthetic stimulation for the busy commercial street.
The building
The project called for a tower to be created on the corner St Georges Terrace and William Street to support my turbine. A rather generic and indicative tower, it offers a glimpse into the cables and infrastructure that will drive and harness the turbines energy. The building could also act as an educational device in terms of sustainability and in particular wind energy. Created in Rhino using very basic strategies involving the twist tool, boolean difference and material editing. The idea was to create a building that faces the building on the opposite side of the road. Traffic and pedestrians can glimpse the turbine from below and the power created by such a turbine will run the block of surrounding buildings. This turbine could be mimicked along the road to produce free energy for more of the CBD.
The Turbine
The Turbine is created using a series of simple components that create one module. This one module can be repeated along the drive shaft in order to span a greater distance.
The module involves the primary drive shaft that operates a piston type lever that runs another shaft below the system. This drive shaft generates the electricity in the tower. On the main shaft sits a polycarbonate panel system which spins when buffeted by the wind. These panels are supported by a thin tendril like mesh that adds to the aesthetic quality of the piece. (Note: see accompanying drawings)
Conclusion
While this turbine may be something of mere fantasy there are a number of issues that this exploration has divulged. Firstly, the issue of biomimicry and learning from nature: The turbine offers a glimpse into the use of naturally occurring structures and efficient use of material. The use of computers in architecture is also important for creating the final product. I must stress that I do believe in the use of computers in architecture but more for post design, for when a design has been sketched, modelled and properly digested the computer is a very powerful and useful visual tool. The issue of sustainability and alternative energy has been brought up, particularly the need for wind energy or solar power to become more prevalent in Perth. And simply to Theo Jansen’s sculptures and the creative juices that his strandbeests have motivated within myself I thankyou.
