Kinetic Shade

Exploring the spatial experience resulting from user interaction with building facade design through an adaptively sensing curtain wall system enabled by digital fabrication and physical computing.

Team Member

Junke Zhao
Angie Wang
Ankita Sinha

Duration

Apr 2024 - May 2024

Contribution

Concept Design, Coding, Fabrication, Assembly, Rendering and Animation

Background

In contemporary architecture, kinetic systems such as facades are predominantly designed to operate autonomously, responding to predetermined schedules or environmental sensors. However, this often overlooks the potential for direct engagement with building occupants. Our project aims to redefine this paradigm by integrating occupant interaction into architectural kinetic assemblies, thus fostering dynamic user experiences within built environments.

Research Question

How can we augment the human experience when interacting with kinetic environments?

Workflow

Input Methods

Iteration 1: Weight Sensing with Load Cell Module

The load cell bar operates on the principle of strain gauge technology, where deformation of the gauge due to applied weight changes its electrical resistance. An amplifier module then reads these changes and converts them into a digital signal that the Arduino uses to trigger motor movement when human presence is detected.

Limitations:

Poor Capacity: Hold only up to 5kg
Only detects the presence of human, lack of range in interaction
Limited in Accuracy

Iteration 2: Motion Detection with IR Beam + Ultrasonic Ranger

IR Break Beam Sensor

IR break beam sensor, which consists of an emitter that sends out an infrared light and a receiver that detects the presence of that light. When something breaks the beam, the interruption is detected by an IR receiver.

Ultrasonic Sensor

When activated, the ultrasonic ranger emits sound waves. The time it takes for the echo to return is used to calculate the object's distance. This distance measurement then informs the Arduino how to control the motor's rotation to a corresponding angle based on the detected presence.