Prototype 1
Prototype 2
KINETIC TOPO
This project was paid for by the LandDesign Matterlab Research Grant and produced in collaboration with Justin Oxford.
Research Objectives:
Create prototype iterations of kinetic topography.
Create a guide to replicate the prototypes with the dual purpose of teaching how they work.
Why Prototype Movement?
Motion adds a more complicated dimension to design. A 3D model is not enough to design moving parts.
Digital models make it difficult to take into account environmental or user inputs. Arduino offers this.
Animated digital models lack realistic movement, materials, and fabrication methods needed to accurately engineer such ideas.
Errors can be minimized before it becomes a financial or safety concern.
Prototyping is key to test out parameters like speed, actuator type, or any sensors involved.
A physical prototype strengthens the validity of complex, seemingly science fiction concepts like a kinetic environment for the client/user.
The act of prototyping can be used as a method of design.
Prototyping puts design into the landscape architect’s hands instead of a mechanical engineer’s.
How?
Arduino, C++ code, various sensors, and an app are used to program the moveable and adjustable prototypes.
C++ Code, App Code, Arduino Schematics, Materials, Analysis, and Research Findings can be found here
LandDesign podcast episode talking about the research project
Prototype 1
Prototype 1 works by inserting a water level sensor into water. Once the water reaches a certain height on the sensor it activates the landscape into a preset configuration. Imagine this prototype as a water-front plaza. Maybe during a normal day it has a few blocks up for casual seating while viewing the coast. Maybe during an event, a stage is created and tiered seating is pushed up. And maybe during a storm the blocks automatically react and rise up to create a flood barrier.
This prototype changes configuration when servo motors with 3D printed arm extensions rotate their arms and push the blocks up.
How prototype 1 could work with the app produced for prototype 2.
Arduino Schematic of attaching the water-level sensor.
Prototype 2
Prototype 2 is operated by an app made for this prototype with preset configurations and the ability to control individual servos. Imagine this as an active play surface, a park that is modifiable to desires, a new form of interactive play/exercise. Or maybe as a one-hole golf course with infinite configurations.
Ditch Configuration
Mound Configuration
App Screenshot
Diagram of servo attached to wood blocks and cardboard circles attached to the servo arms. When the servo arms rotate it rotates the elastic and pulls the membrane up and down. The circles allow for a larger range of movement.
