Author: ТАЗАЯН РОЗА, АЛИНА ПОПОВА, АЛЕКСАНДР ПАСЬКО | TAZAYAN ROSA, ALINA POPOVA, ALEXANDER PASKO
introduction
The relevance of kinetic architecture in modern urban planning is determined by the desire to create a flexible, adaptive urban environment capable of responding promptly to the changing social, climatic and individual needs of residents.
The concept of Dynamic Architecture is an innovative approach to design and construction in which buildings or parts of them are able to rotate around a vertical axis. This movement can be implemented both for the entire building and for individual floors (Buildings in Motion, Revolving Buildings, Rotating Towers). The main engineering task is to develop such a communication system that allows rotating elements to maintain the continuous functioning of all necessary life-support systems (water supply, electricity, sewerage). The next important aspect is the choice of an energy source to propel the mass of the structure; the ideal solution is considered to be the use of renewable energy sources such as solar or wind, which corresponds to the principles of sustainable development and minimizing environmental impact.
The usefulness of kinetic architecture lies in its ability to ensure the versatility of buildings, energy efficiency and aesthetic versatility. Mobile structural elements allow you to change the shape and functions of a building in accordance with external conditions, such as the angle of incidence of sunlight, wind direction, temperature fluctuations, as well as the personal desires of users.
Thus, buildings become not just static objects, but active participants in urban life, able to independently optimize their microclimate and energy consumption, as well as expand the functionality of the space.
The scientific value of the presented research lies in a comprehensive analysis of the engineering, technological and environmental aspects of kinetic architecture. An important task is to systematize knowledge about the mechanisms and materials that make it possible to create movable architectural structures, and to assess their stability and durability. Special attention is paid to the analysis of the energy independence of such buildings, the possibilities of integrating renewable energy sources into them and the effectiveness of kinetic process control systems.
In the 1970s, the foundation of kinetic architecture was laid. Then scientists Chuck Fuller and Roger H. Clark proposed the idea of creating buildings that can change their configuration in response to external changes. During the same period, due to advances in computer technology, Sengir Trikandis and Leslie Jackson developed software for controlling moving elements of buildings.
Already in the 21st century, researchers around the world have continued to actively consider such an architectural concept. M. Asefi's research, highlighted in his work "Transformable and Kinetic Architectural Structures", laid the theoretical foundation for the development of kinetic architecture, justifying its potential and mechanisms of transformation. In parallel, J. Moloney, in his work "Designing Kinetics for Architectural Facades", presented an in-depth analysis of the design of kinetic facades, supplementing the theoretical base with practical recommendations for creating dynamic and adaptive architectural structures.
Despite the fact that the idea of movable structures in architecture is not new and has been around for decades, only in recent years has it received a significant technological and conceptual impetus for practical development.
An example of the practical application of kinetic architecture is the Rotating Skyscraper project in Dubai by the Italian architect David Fisher. A special feature of the project is an 80—storey building with movable floors that independently rotate around a central core. The structure resembles a living organism due to its dynamism and the ability to change the shape of the facade.
This project integrates wind turbines installed between floors, allowing each of them to generate energy and move autonomously. Residents with an entire floor will be able to control its rotation by choosing their preferred view from the window through voice commands. The project assumes that the movement of floors will be slow and smooth, not felt by residents.
In addition, the project provides a car elevator capable of delivering the car directly to the apartment. A system of solar panels and wind generators will provide energy not only to the skyscraper itself, but also to neighboring buildings. The construction of a building based on the principle of a designer with ready-made floors assembled at the factory will reduce construction time and costs. The skyscraper will house hotels, offices, residential apartments and penthouses with gardens on the upper floors.
The purpose of the work is to study the potential of kinetic architecture in the context of modern urban planning in order to determine the prospects and possibilities of its application to create a flexible and adaptive urban environment.
Tasks of the work:
1. Analysis of modern urban planning trends and the role of kinetic architecture in the formation of adaptive urban spaces.
2. Consideration of the principles of dynamic architecture and their impact on the functionality, energy efficiency and aesthetics of buildings.
3. Study of engineering and technological solutions that make it possible to realize the rotational movement of parts of buildings while maintaining their functionality.
4. Research on the possibilities of integrating renewable energy sources into the life support systems of kinetic buildings.
5. Assessment of the environmental impact of kinetic buildings and their contribution to the sustainable development of the urban environment.
6. Forecasting the future development of kinetic architecture and its place in the architectural landscape of cities.
The object of research: Kinetic architecture as an element of modern urban planning.
Subject of research: Design methods, construction technologies and operation of kinetic buildings and structures, as well as the integration of life support systems and renewable energy sources into them.
So, the prospects of kinetic architecture carry more than the possibility of changing the visual appearance of buildings. They embody the desire of the world community for energy independence and environmental responsibility.
Projects like the Dynamic Tower in Dubai demonstrate that buildings can be not only housing or work space, but also active participants in the city's energy system, converting natural resources into necessary electricity.
Despite the fact that many kinetic projects have not yet been translated into reality, they are an important step towards a future where architecture and energy become inseparable. The combination of solar, wind and water energy with advanced architectural solutions will allow cities to become self-sufficient and environmentally friendly. Thus, the Dynamic Tower promises to become not just a new attraction, but also a vivid example of how technology can change the face of cities and make them more attractive to residents and tourists.
Designing buildings that can adapt and change in harmony with the environment will become the main trend in the construction industry in the coming years.
MAIN PART
I. Kinetic mechanisms in architecture: a detailed device
Kinetic architecture technologies are still at the stage of intensive development and improvement. Because of this, they do not have an established or widely accepted classification. All kinetic designs have unique characteristics and mechanisms, which makes standardization attempts difficult.
To understand the essence of kinetic architecture, it is necessary to consider in detail the mechanisms that embody architectural structures in motion. These mechanisms may include hydraulic, pneumatic, electric motor–based systems, as well as more innovative ones such as smart materials capable of changing shape under the influence of temperature, light or electricity. For a deep understanding of the principles of kinetic architecture, it is advisable to analyze the system based on specific implemented examples.
An example of the implementation of such mechanisms is the Quadrant House project, carried out by the Polish architectural bureau KWK Promes. The concept of the building is based on the idea of mobility of the main elements of the building, in particular the terrace, which is able to track and respond to the movement of the sun.
The terrace in the Quadrant House is equipped with a system of sensors and mechanical elements, such as the rails on which it moves (See Appendix No. 6). This movement is synchronized with the position of the sun and allows you to adjust the amount of sunlight and shade in the rooms, providing natural lighting in winter and coolness in summer.
Interestingly, the design of the terrace is inspired by the device of an astronomical instrument – a quadrant, which consists of a movable part and fixed perpendicular elements.
In addition, the building is equipped with a system of electric blinds for additional regulation of light flow and shade. The walls and ceilings are made of monolithic reinforced concrete, ensuring structural integrity, and the roof of the main part of the house consists of wooden trusses. The energy autonomy and environmental cleanliness of the system is maintained through the use of photovoltaic panels, which are placed on a rotating element of the terrace and are constantly oriented towards the sun.
The next example of the application of kinetic innovations in architecture is the Dynamic D-House, developed by D. B. Grunberg and D. Wolfson (See Appendix No. 6).
The transformation mechanism is based on a geometric transformation known as the Dudeney problem — the transformation of an equilateral triangle into a square. This process involves dividing the triangle into four smaller parts, which can be moved in such a way as to form a new shape. In the context of Dynamic D-House, this transformation is achieved by moving parts of the building along specially designed rails embedded in the foundation.
The adaptation of the building to seasonal and climatic conditions is due to the ability of its elements to converge and diverge, which makes it possible to maximize or, conversely, limit the penetration of natural light and air into the interior. In winter, the building can take on a more compact shape to preserve heat, in summer it can open up to improve ventilation and illumination.
The transformation of the building is carried out through a motorized system, which implies the presence of high-precision motors and transmission mechanisms coordinated by a computer program. The software controlling the system is based on algorithms that analyze weather data and the position of the sun, and can also take into account individual settings set by users.
The original Dynamic D-House project was remarkable in that it was the first to offer a revolutionary approach to the concept of housing, allowing it to dynamically change its shape and function in response to external conditions. The implementation of this idea in Singapore in 2015 was an important step in the development of architectural technologies, proving the viability and practical applicability of kinetic architecture.
The integration of solar panels into the building design is a successful combination of energy efficiency and innovative design. The generation of electricity by solar panels ensures the energy independence of the system necessary for the implementation of kinematic transformations. This autonomy in energy supply not only reduces operating costs, but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the building, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Sharifi-ha House in Tehran, designed by the Next Office bureau, is another outstanding example of kinetic architecture. This house is a seven-storey building with two underground levels, including rotating blocks located on three above-ground floors (See Appendix No. 6).
The rotation mechanism of the rooms provides an opportunity for residents to adjust the degree of illumination of the premises and their functionality depending on the season. In winter, the rooms can be transformed into closed cozy living rooms, thereby keeping warm, and in summer — into open terraces, which promotes ventilation and creates additional space for relaxation.
Structurally, the building is based on a metal frame consisting of columns and I-beams, providing the necessary structural rigidity. This approach makes it possible to perceive not only static, but also dynamic loads that arise during the operation of the room rotation mechanism. The atrium in the center of the building plays a key role in providing natural light for all rooms, even when the front of the building is closed.
The rotary mechanism of the rooms in Sharifi-ha House is based on technologies similar to those used in theatrical scenery, where a quick and reliable change of stage paintings is required. The terraces are equipped with folding balustrades, which are integrated into the rotation system and change their position along with the blocks.
The dynamic design was developed and tested using digital modeling. The SAP2000 software package allowed engineers to analyze both static and dynamic characteristics of the building, verify its reliability and develop optimal parameters for the operation of rotary mechanisms.
As part of the analysis of dynamic architecture, it should be taken into account that its concept is based on the integration of mechanical systems, which are an integral element of the functioning of kinetic structures. The presence of these mechanisms is necessary for the full operation of the building. Adequate operation, maintenance and careful use of mechanisms become not only a duty, but also a condition for comfortable living in such houses. At the same time, the kinetic architecture, which appeared against the background of the development of technical thought, also assumes increased operational requirements, which is due to the complexity of technical solutions and the need for their smooth functioning.
II. Practical implementation of kinetic architecture
Objects of kinetic architecture began to be built at the beginning of the twentieth century. Despite the primitiveness, in comparison with the present time, of the structures, their transformable parts fully performed residential and industrial functions. For a better perception, let's look at several buildings that are significant for engineering and architecture.
The oldest building is the Villa Girasole "(Sunflower"), designed by engineer Angelo Invernizzi in 1929. The house consists of two-storey wings coming from the central part, which includes a staircase and an elevator. The design includes roller bearings holding the base with a diameter of about 44 meters. The main function of the kinetic architecture in this case is due to the wheel supports of the car, which are driven by diesel engines powered by the sun. Rotation is carried out in a comfortable format, without causing ill health or other inconveniences, since residents themselves can adjust the direction and stop the structure (see Appendix No. 1).
Due to the large amount of work, Angelo Invernizzi could not foresee all the situations that could arise during construction. We had to change the materials, the order of work, repair the walls and so on. He was assisted in this by no less professional people – engineer Romolo Carapacchi, architect Ettore Faggiuoli, decorator Fausto Saccorotti, and some other sculptors and artists. In 1935, the villa began to operate in full format.
Another building focused on interaction with nature was built in the period from 1981 to 1987 in Paris, by the famous architect Jean Nouvel. The main idea was to establish ties with the Middle East, which gave rise to the name "Institute of the Arab World", and the use of solar energy to improve the environmental situation.
The functional part is the south wall, equipped with 240 aluminum panels that respond to changes in natural light. By changing the size of the diaphragms, which are also installed for aesthetic and stylistic effect, a certain amount of light enters the building (see Appendix No. 2).
A striking example of the use of water resources is the Falker Wheel Bridge, built in 2002, located in Scotland. This facility was designed by The Morrison-Bachy Soletanche Joint Venture Team, the British Waterways Board, RMJM.
The structure weighs 1200 tons and consists of a hundred–meter axis and two movable elements - the so-called blades, in which there is a hole. The mechanism of operation is based on Archimedes' law, so a ship that sails onto a platform displaces some of the water, but at the same time the balance in two containers is maintained. In the next step, the wheel rotates 180 degrees and moves the ship into another channel (see Appendix No. 3).
In 2012, the Arab firm Aedas Architects designed the Al Bahar Towers. The main task was to create a comfortable office center, taking into account the hot weather and minimizing energy costs. The goal was achieved by using movable grilles in the building structure, the position of which is changed by the program depending on sunlight (see Appendix No. 4).
The shielding facade performs two functions at once: climatic and aesthetic. The first is to create comfortable temperature conditions in the room, and the second is the visual individualization and national tradition of the architectural solution.
Since the twentieth century, many structures have been designed that use kinetic architecture. The latest is the Dynamic Tower project in Dubai (see Appendix No. 5). Its uniqueness lies in its full interaction with nature and the maximum minimization of the production of electrical and other energy not from the environment. The mobility of the elements due to solar, wind and water resources according to the architect's plan will not interfere with the life and work of people in the building. With the help of solar panels and wind turbines, energy should be accumulated at 1,200,000 kW/hour, which will ensure the smooth operation of all mechanisms.
III. The positive and negative sides of the use of kinetic energy in construction
Over the centuries, various engineering and technological solutions have been introduced into general study and application to improve the life of society and the state. Jacques Fresco's design work "Venus" and Buckminster Fuller's Dimaxion house are presented as the first developments directly related to the topic under study. But due to the lack of knowledge and resources in some geographical locations, the process of implementing ideas was impossible.
The essence of these projects is to update the resource-oriented economic model, which implies a special adaptation of the socio-economic system to natural phenomena.
Currently, new architectural buildings and structures designed to generate energy through water, air and other resources are attracting increasing attention. But there are both positive and negative aspects in their construction and subsequent use.