Multiscale modeling frameworks for architecture: Designing the unseen and invisible with phase change materials

Abstract

Multiscale design and analysis models promise a robust, multimethod, multidisciplinary approach, but at present have limited application during the architectural design process. To explore the use of multiscale models in architecture, we develop a calibrated modeling and simulation platform for the design and analysis of a prototypical envelope made of phase change materials. The model is mechanistic in nature, incorporates material-scale and precinct scale-attributes, and supports the design of two-and three-dimensional phase change material geometries informed by heat transfer phenomena. Phase change material behavior, in solid and liquid states, dominates the visual and numerical evaluation of the multiscale model. Model calibration is demonstrated using real-time data gathered from the prototype. Model extensibility is demonstrated when it is used by designers to predict the behavior of alternate envelope options. Given the challenges of modeling phase change material behavior in this multiscale model, an additional multiple linear regression model is applied to data collected from the physical prototype in order to demonstrate an alternate method for predicting the melting and solidification of phase change materials.

Computational design logics for bio-based design

“…Here, sense data is gathered from prototypical elements across longer life spans to inform performance. An example of this is the PCM Façade project, a collaboration with Kieran Timberlake Research (Faircloth et al, 2018 ). Here, we examine the behaviour of liquid organic phase change paraffin wax as they state change in response environmental change.…”

Integrated Material Practice in Freeform Timber Structures

“…Its application to architectural systems has been the topic of research at CITA. Multi-scalar modelling is explored in other projects at CITA such as Dermoid (Burry et al 2012), A Bridge Too Far and Lace Wall (Ramsgaard Thomsen, Tamke, et al 2017), and the phase-change material (PCM) prototype described by Faircloth et al (2018). The methodologies employed within these multi-scalar projects are further described by Nicholas, Zwierzycki, and Ramsgaard Thomsen (2015), where they are considered as "nested organizations from which features, behaviors, and properties emerge on the basis of interactions across scales and systems".…”

“…The methodologies employed within these multi-scalar projects are further described by Nicholas, Zwierzycki, and Ramsgaard Thomsen (2015), where they are considered as "nested organizations from which features, behaviors, and properties emerge on the basis of interactions across scales and systems". Negotiating these nested organizations takes different forms: Nicholas, Zwierzycki, Nørgaard, et al (2017) use a mesh refinement and coarsening strategy to move between local panel geometries and overall structural form in the design of a bridge using incremental sheet forming; Faircloth et al (2018) use a mechanistic model of phase-change materials, supported by physical testing, to drive larger facade designs based on expected and desired solar performance.…”

“…Whereas in other fields the micro-scale corresponds with the world of atoms and the macro-scale with what can be seen with the human eye, in this architectural context the micro-scale instead corresponds to the particular material resolution -in this case, the cellular make-up of timber and its locally-varying properties -and the macro-scale corresponds to the building or structural assembly, which does not take into account localized material variability. This characterisation of the different scales is described by Faircloth et al (2018): (...) the macro scale encompasses the resolution of global design goals, overall geometric configurations, and a full-scale understanding of structural performance. The meso scale considers the project at an assembly and sub-assembly level, and is concerned with material behaviours tied to geometric transformation, detailing and component-level tectonic expression.…”

“…The heterogeneity of timber at a material level, the varying composition of the glulam blank, and the distribution of different types of glulam blanks across a timber structure make it challenging to construct models that fully take into account these factors across all scales. A multi-scalar modelling approach is therefore used to confront these challenges, using a differentiation between micro, meso, and macro scales proposed by Faircloth et al (2018). This approach confronts the distribution of timber material properties at a micro scale, fabrication and material constraints at a meso scale, and component interrelation in structural assemblies at a macro scale (Fig.…”