energy of the sea: an offshore marine research facility
a Thesis submitted to
the Division of Research and Advanced Studies
of The University of Cincinnati
in Partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Architecture
in The School of Architecture and Interior Design
of The College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning
2007
by Benjamin Ian Cripe
B.S. Arch, University of Cincinnati, 2005
Committee Chairwomen
Elizabeth Rioden Aarati Kanekar This thesis investigation looks to the future when renewable energy sources may sources energy renewable when future the to looks investigation thesis This environment. natural the for concerns major are resources natural of overuse the and sprawl, urban warming, global Presently design. sustainable of importance a the of unaware acutely is becoming population general the and solution design mainstream from sustainability prevented have architecture in trends Current Abstract architecture, andoceanwaveenergy. structure which can serve as an educational model for sustainable design, floating iconic an as envisioned also is but energy, of source primary its as waves ocean Mendocino, California. Acting as a self sustaining building, this facility not only uses for a floating marine research facility located three miles off the coastline of Cape energy generate to waves ocean employs resource intervention design natural The stewardship. inadequate and overcrowding city to due reality soon a could ocean become the on designing addition, In power. of source only the be
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iv Contents
Abstract .iii Contents .v Illustration Credits .vii s1_0: Opening Remarks Introduction .01 Thesis Statement .04 The Future Significance of Ocean Wave Energy and Floating Architecture .05 Document Organization .07 s2_0: Design Influences and Technological Assessment Literature Review .09 Powering a Building with Ocean Wave Energy .15 Rejuvenating Typology: Designing on Water .25 Ecological Implications of Wave Energy Conversion and Floating Architecture .30 LEED Guidelines and Sustainable Design Methodologies .34 s3_0: Summation and Proposed Outcomes Research Summary .38 Proposition .40 Outcomes .41 s4_0: Designing for the Transient: Floating Architecture and Projects of the Sea
s4_1: Ocean Architecture: Primitive Beginnings .43 Tonle Sap, Cambodia Canadian Floating Communities Sausalito, CA Floating Community Watervilla - Herman Hertzberger Water Dwelling - Drost + Van Veen Floating Homes GMBH Nordic Watercolor Museum
s4_2: Ocean Architecture: Theoretical Underpinnings .50 Triton City - Fuller Maunsell Sea Forts Plug-in City - Archigram Oil Rigs Pompidou Center Japanese Metabolists Nakagin Capsule Apartments Marine City Floating Factory Shizuoka Press and Broadcasting Building City in the Air
s4_3: Ocean Architecture: Marine Research Facilities .60 Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institution Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Scripps Institution of Oceanography FLIP Platform Sea Orbiter – Jacques Rougerie v
s5_0: Site Site Selection .68 Environmental and Unforeseen Hazards .79 s6_0: Program Program Analysis .81 Programmatic Description of Spaces .82 s7_0: Design Process Programmatic Design .84 Building Form Studies .87 Schematic Design of Building Relationship to .91 Ocean Waves and Spatial Organization Concepts Revisited: A Fresh Design Consideration .99 s8_0: Reflection Final Thoughts on the Thesis .106 s9_0: Bibliography .107 Ocean Wave Energy Conversion Sustainable Design Floating Technology Architectural Precedents Site Forces vi Illustration Credits s1_0: 1.01 Hood Canal, WA. Courtesy Ben Cripe 1.02 Beijing power plant.
Architects have an ethical responsibility developed a vertically oriented language in to society and the natural environment when pursuit of the tallest possible structures. From designing the spaces people inhabit. Frequently an ecological point of view, tall buildings are during the design process there are key ideas a wonderful design idea because they utilize a lost in the translation between client and small footprint; minimizing ground disturbance. architect, but more importantly, between the Conversely, not all buildings are meant to climb natural environment and the architect. I have hundreds of feet above the Earth, and regardless found a personal connection to the sustainability of height, many impose a variety of hazards to the movement and the possibilities of an ecologically natural environment. The sustainability movement responsive built environment. I believe architects has been working to educate and transform the can design as they have for decades, but can architectural community for many years. Passive also implement a few simple techniques to make design strategies and new technologies are now large strides in combating the building industry’s allowing buildings to become more ecologically exhausting dependence on fossil fuels and looming responsible. A variety of designs actually yield a reality of natural resource over-consumption. built environment that is less polluted and more
Throughout history architecture has biologically diverse. Eventually architecture based 1 solely on passive strategies will not be enough. problematic, enabling off-shore floating structures Buildings are the leading users and abusers to become the building typology of the future. of natural resources when the life-cycle and Moreover, many common and accepted design construction process of buildings are compared practices adversely affect ecological diversity, to other current manufacturing processes. advocating the importance of ecologically- Investigation of alternative building materials and informed design that embodies a symbiotic renewable energy sources will be imperative for relationship with nature. Jyanzi Kong, professor future architectural endeavors. at the National University of Singapore School Discovering innovative places to build will of Architecture, believes “our mind-set about also be of immense concern for architecture of buildings must be changed from one that is about future generations. The American way of life is the solid ground, to that of the liquid sea.” gobbling up vast amounts of land in accordance Building on the oceans also provides the with conventional design philosophies, leaving less necessary infrastructure for renewable energy and less room for expansion. Due to overcrowding resources. Generation of electricity is possible of cities and the invasion of urban sprawl, by way of ocean waves; a completely free, designers are looking for the next place to build. sustainable, and naturally occurring phenomenon. New Urbanists argue that infill development is the Aquatic architecture opens many doors for the solution, which has merit; but another possible future of design and for the future of how society building typology exists. Working with water-born lives and functions. These possibilities range from energy solutions, there are great opportunities building single residences or entire communities for building on water. Creating a completely on inland bodies of water to building in the middle offshore building and site can not only reduce of the ocean. Although this idea may seem the dependence on conventional electric very unreasonable and even utopianistic, there generation by exploring new energy sources, but has been significant research within the fields of can also pave the way for a new aesthetic and ocean wave energy conversion and off-shore methodology of design. An overabundance of floating technology, paving the way for a new prime real estate exists with seventy percent of architectural typology. the planet being aqueous. Building on water is Several wave energy conversion devices not a simple matter. Understanding a variety of are presently being researched and developed in innovative technologies and sustainable building the United States as well as many other countries. practices will prevent water architecture from Supplying power via ocean waves can help to succumbing to ecological degradation. alleviate rising fossil fuel prices. In addition to The architectural community and general providing alternative energy, ocean wave energy public are slowly gaining an understanding of conversion is a clean and non-polluting source of how traditional land-based architecture promotes power. Conversion devices are presently capable deforestation and the contamination of soil and of supplying ample power to one building, or as water. Critical judgment from these two groups in the case of Scotland, capable of supplying opening remarks
allows past architectural ideologies to be seen as enormous amounts of electricity to a national grid. 2
introduction By studying the ongoing research and precedents of new technologies to harness the power of ocean waves, this thesis project will incorporate specific sustainable and technological methodologies to inform the design process. A holistic understanding of innovative building technologies and renewable non-polluting energy can be achieved through the investigation of floating architecture and ocean wave energy. Working with the aforementioned strategies, I propose to design an offshore marine research facility near Cape Mendocino, California in the Pacific Ocean. The resulting built environment will strategically investigate architecture designed for floating landscapes, while also analyzing the future of ocean wave energy conversion. Finally, the all-encompassing goal of this thesis project is to generate a new environmental typology which is unrestricted by typical architectural concerns including land-use, building form, and site. A unique spatial character can be achieved when sustainable methodologies are applied with an avant-garde design approach that dissolves the previously archetypal connotations of ecological design. As a result, this thesis project strives to demonstrate a clear methodology for utilizing sustainable design and alternative building practices for future architectural intervention. opening remarks 3 1.01
introduction osblte fr lentv eeg sucs and sources energy alternative providing for possibilities methodology) prime design a architectural as unrecognized presently (although the sustainability movement has risen in popularity, resources, natural of consumption over the and pollution, water and air buildings, by generated disparities such as the enormous amounts of waste built the environment tobecomeecologicallydesolate. enabled has the profession consumption, architectural fuel fossil to spaces regard designing without by and construction produced waste during the ignoring by Furthermore, technologies. design sustainable available not utilize do architects many Presently, eye. blind a profession of architecture continues designing with the if future immediate the in be may works and non- lives population global the how to change drastic which A in staggering. is consumed is rate energy renewable increasing The manner. comprehensive a in practices design sustainable of importance the of informed even or persuaded methodology. Society as a whole has not yet been design mainstream accepted sustainability an becoming from prevented have industry building Thesis Statement Riding on present ecological and economic the and architecture in trends Current 1.02 1.03 n cnc ulig hc euae te general the educates which building iconic an architecture on the open ocean in order to create ocean wave energy, and the possibility of building this thesis combines sustainable building practices, and envisioned. theorized, The design intervention emerging from used, designed, is architecture way the change energy drastically can mind alternative in sources with thinking example, For strengthened. be to needs that embraced and expressed is sustainability of education the which in means the is It design. ecological of validity the implement them into projects, they do understand to how or technologies sustainable of aware not are designers many While environments. building how buildings aredesignedtousewave energy. changing also are but consumed, and produced is energy These how changing only not are companies Wavegen. and E2I as such companies energy wave offshore by envisioned been have the other Living Machine. Technological advancements many of inventor Todd, and John like supporters, ecological McDonough are from concepts derived theoretical and Conventional bio-rehabilitator. scale larger even an to polluter scale large a from transform can industry building the food, equals waste of principle McDonough’s Understanding movement. sustainability the of pioneer a McDonough, William from come ideas usable Other an design. ensure conscious environmentally help to used be can that measures simple few a are management construction and Ecologically responsible material selection, building orientation, proposal. design this for backing sustainable of design asamainstreampractice. applicability and architecture, ocean sources, energy renewable of population aiu ssanbe rnils rvd the provide principles sustainable Various thesis statement
4 opening remarks The Future Significance of Ocean Wave Energy and Floating Architecture As mentioned in the thesis statement, conventional practice. (Although these concepts the natural environment is faced with many are explored in great detail in section 2.0, I feel problems including global warming, deforestation, it is necessary to provide a brief introduction increased pollution, wetland contamination, before describing architectural precedents and a and acidification. Destruction of natural capital technical discourse on ocean energy). is not the only concern in today’s throwaway Looking toward the future, this thesis society of mass industrialization and integration. embraces the notion of floating architecture for For example, urban sprawl, coastline erosion, the open ocean. Although this idea may seem and a rising sea level are all contributing to the outlandish, there are significant architectural works reduction of available land. Furthermore, non- in support of this concept. Placing a building on renewable energy sources are being consumed at the ocean opens many possibilities for renewable staggering rates and it is only now that the United energy. For example, offshore wind energy and States is beginning to actively pursue alternative photovoltaics could be used to power a floating energy sources. Many European countries such as structure; but ocean wave energy truly speaks Germany, France, Denmark, and the Netherlands to the inherent concept of floating architecture. have been investigating sustainable energy and Offshore waves provide far more energy than building techniques for several years. European waves breaking near a coastline, therefore foresight has also lead to the investigation of mooring a structure in open water will be highly ocean wave energy. efficient. Also, it should be noted that a building Due to environmental concerns mentioned placed several miles from the coastline will earlier, the architectural community needs to actually have a lessened environmental impact. consider the future of architecture in terms of how For example, marine sanctuaries and grey whale buildings will be built, powered, and even located. migration routes occur between the coastline and It is already evident that buildings need to better three miles from shore. Placing a building within utilize renewable energy, but it is also evident that this zone could be extremely detrimental to the building on solid ground may not always be the marine ecosystem. opening remarks
1.04 1.05 5
the future significance of ocean wave energy and floating architecture Creating a built environment in the ocean iconic structure. As mentioned earlier, ocean will not only impact the marine ecosystem, but wave energy is somewhat of an undeveloped it will also impact the humanistic element when resource. A major goal of this building would be considering the people who would live and work to further research ocean wave energy and to within this floating marine research facility. The educate the general public about this renewable architectural intervention must be implicitly sensitive resource. A building design to speak of the fluid to issues of community and “place” making as and transient nature of ocean waves can be used well as psychological and emotional concerns of as a billboard for sustainable design and ocean being isolated for a given period of time. Another energy. Furthermore, this building is envisioned as important aspect to consider is the idea of an a prototype model for floating architecture. opening remarks
factors supporting offshore building location 1.06 6
the future significance of ocean wave energy and floating architecture Document Organization Within this thesis document various Tange and Kisho Kurokawa are also a significant principles of ocean wave energy conversion is component of this section along with deep examined at length. The detailed explanation ocean installations like oil rigs. Entitled, Ocean of ocean energy is aimed to provide the reader Architecture: Marine Research Facilities, the final with sufficient technological data so they may section of architectural precedents looks at various better understand the design decisions and Oceanography Institutions and research vessels. parti development of this project. Aspects of Another large component of this thesis floating systems, environmental considerations, project is the site selection process. Thorough and sustainable design methodologies are also investigation of the site has led to a series of uncovered within the second section of the specific design interventions which are outlined document. The final segment of introductory in a graphic site analyses. Documentation of information concludes with a research summary, the building program as well as environmental project proposition, and hypothesized outcomes. hazards of the site and wave energy conversion A comprehensive section of this document are also outlined within this document. Finally, the has been devoted to floating architectural schematic design process is the last component precedents. For greater clarity, this section of this thesis document. Within this section, the has been divided into three distinct pieces, the evolution of the architectural design is explained first being titled Ocean Architecture: Primitive in great detail. Beginnings. Inside this section, contemporary A topical bibliography can also be and archaic floating communities are examined found at the conclusion of the document. along with present-day buildings designed for While this listing of references only scratches the a lake, bay, or river bank. Architecture of the surface of materials relevant to this topic, these nineteen sixties designed by Buckminster Fuller and resources vastly contributed to the research and Archigram is explored within the following section, development of ocean wave energy and floating Ocean Architecture: Theoretical Underpinnings. structures investigated within this thesis. Japanese Metabolist Architects such as Kenzo opening remarks 7
document organization bioshelters designedbyjohntodd 1.07, 1.08
8 ea t qeto wy einr se to seem designers why question to Frankel article, began the Within Green.” of “Shades entitled article an wrote Wisconsin/Milwaukee, of University the at Planning Urban and Architecture Magazine architectural designcommunity. regenerative the in of strides enormous making also while design, solutions embrace and to possibilities beginning the are design. designers green within Many popularity an gaining natural is nature, idea mimic how even and work Understanding processes built responsible environment. ecologically and more a sustainable of value the recognize to beginning is n h Jnay 00 su of issue 2000 January the In , Neil Frankel of the Graduate School of School Graduate the of Frankel Neil , Presently the architecture community architecture the Presently section2_0: designinfluencesand technological assessment Interiors eivs ht n gsue dsge mks to makes designer a gesture any Frankel that believes Furthermore, (24). design” sustainable embraces that strategy design any encourage to need we destruction, global of process inevitable the down slow merely they solutions believe they because partial oppose who vigilantes, design environmental of team dream self-elected a thinking of the to “contrary argument: the makes bluntly Frankel design. sustainable in important equally are environment the and end-users the of maintained be can forever. Protecting the health, safety, and welfare that manner a in and society economy, the environment, the that balances process a is design sustainable Frankel, to According work. design their into it incorporate really never but sustainability, of buzz the accept literature review
9 preserve or revitalize the environment for future of the US Green Building Council (82). generations is an important step in the ecological Paumgartten cites reports published by the design process. National Building Museum throughout his May 2003 Another question raised within this article is article in High Performance Buildings. Three billion why there is little evidence of sustainable practices tons of raw materials are consumed every year in when most design professionals understand the the construction of new buildings. Forty percent of environmental need for sustainable solutions. the raw stone, gravel, and sand used annually can Frankel points to a study completed in 2000 for also be traced to the construction industry. The the simple answer. The International Interior U.S. Department of Energy estimates that thirty to Design Association investigated the attitude of forty percent of all energy, including sixty percent professionals towards sustainability with a recent of all electricity, consumed in the United States survey of one-hundred interior designers. Of the alone goes into non-residential buildings. Also, one-hundred people interviewed, eighty-three it has been reported that twenty to twenty-five percent say they have a moral obligation to offer percent of all water used in the United States goes sustainable solutions to a client, while only thirty- to non-residential buildings (83). seven percent actually do so. It seems many Economic issues of green design have not designers lack confidence in their knowledge of been specifically stated within the National Building sustainable design. The survey also concluded Museum’s research, but cost-effective design that many designers think sustainability is a low seems to be a legitimate concern for buildings that priority with clients and will actually compromise use fewer resources and less energy in the long and the design intent (24). short term. A lowered operating cost of building In the article’s conclusion, Frankel states infrastructure is a benefit of sustainable design too. that sustainable design is a priority for the survival Research shows that daylighting and improved of the planet. Designers need to understand that ventilation actually increases worker productivity working with sustainability will be difficult at first, and reduces absenteeism. Paumgartten also cites but is something that can be overcome and will sustainable design as a means to treat ground eventually become one of the important criteria water systems. Reduced dependence on storm for judging design excellence (24). water systems, detention ponds, and piping can Sustainable design has taken hold due to be achieved with bituminous paving, a common the impact buildings have on occupant health underfoot sustainable solution. Energy resources and productivity, not to mention the indoor can also be conserved with sustainable design and outdoor natural environments. Due to the says Paumgartten. In a study by Johnson Controls fact that Americans spend ninety percent of in 2001, it was revealed that $16.7 billion in energy their time indoors, it is about time the impact of costs can be saved by businesses, schools, and ecologically unhealthy buildings is becoming hospitals by implementing sustainable techniques. a controversial hot-topic in architecture, says The money saved translates into 166 million
Paul von Paumgartten, director of Energy and megawatt hours saved, which would be enough design influences and technological assessment
Environmental Affairs in Milwaukee and treasurer electricity to power every household in California 10
introduction for two years. Up to six new power plants that massive scale, says McDonough. are scheduled for construction could also be Respecting diversity of place, time, culture, eliminated by this attainable amount of savings and biology is the necessary combatant to the (83). A clear argument can easily be understood quickly disintegrating world in McDonough’s eyes. for sustainable design and the possibilities of Ecosystems depend on relationships between construction for an ecologically economic species to promote and enhance the vitality of country. the natural processes. McDonough explains how A new understanding of the economic the web of each species is interlocked, each one and environmental concerns surrounding the depending on the other. A continuance of the building industry has encouraged architects to building practices in place is not only destroying strive for sustainable solutions. One such designer the rich fabric of the environment, but is also is William McDonough. An active spokesperson breaking the web of biodiversity. and pioneer of the green design movement, McDonough believes that industries need to McDonough has co-authored a book entitled respect diversity in the same manner that animal Cradle to Cradle; published in 2002. Considered species respect diversity in nature. Industrial by many practitioners and advocates the “bible” processes should utilize local materials, energy of sustainable design philosophies, Cradle to sources, and economic forces instead of seeing Cradle illustrates how nature’s design framework is these resources as a never-ending supply that is built on diversity and abundance of life, biological disconnected to the surrounding environment, systems, and resources. In nature these systems landscape, and culture. evolve to feed, grow, and produce new life. In McDonough also looks into the the built environment and throughout the design misconceptions between eco-effectiveness and process things are much different. For example, eco-efficiency. Eco-efficient spaces use materials such man-made systems compete and do not and energy in a reduced and environmentally work together, ultimately destroying what was conscious manner whereas eco-effective spaces once desired but never attained. use materials and energy in the same way, but the According to McDonough, the current result is also an enjoyable space to inhabit. The big mindset is a one-size-fits-all solution that uses and difference between these two design approaches abuses everything in its path. New construction is that one method takes the user into account levels destroy sacred forests and coastal marshes and the other is more concerned with a check- without regard to the beauty or possibilities of the list design methodology. Currently designers are natural systems at work. Buildings of a cultural and using only a few ecological design principles and even sometimes historical significance are torn the lack of overall ecological awareness is driving down to make room for the new wave, bigger and architecture and environmental design in the better design solution. It is the bigger and better wrong direction says McDonough. Society needs solution that pollutes the water and air to even to consider the purpose of a product or system as a higher levels of contamination. Current practices whole, while also weighing the goals and potential design influences and technological assessment
are merely a simplification or de-evolution on a effects of a design system in terms of the immediate 11
literature review and the long term. Cultural, commercial, and ecological aspects of a design system must be understood in order to create a coherent plan for new development and design. While creating a new plan for the built environment, McDonough says architects and designers must revitalize the resources we consume. Without replenishing the environment, our natural resources will be completely depleted, and the quality of life that we now enjoy will be severely compromised.
The adaptation and emulation of nature is 2.01 not a new principle by any measure, although the discourse on sustainability may make some people an unsigned article of Power Engineering, dated July believe otherwise. For example, the Anasazi 2004, a clear case for ocean energy is presented. Indians of the southwest portion of the United The article describes the current under-utilization of States used the common sustainable principles of ocean wave power. Stepping into the foreground daylighting and solar angles to heat and cool their is the Electric Innovation Institute, known as E2I. dwellings more than 1,500 years ago. Advancing Presently, E2I is investigating locations for wave technologies that embrace sustainable principles conversion stations in Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, are, however, new and on the rise. and Maine. The U.S. Department of Energy and Recent global energy problems have E2I are working together to produce a conceptual strengthened the case for sustainability and smart design for wave generation plants in these four design practices. New methods of construction, locations. Cost estimates for construction, power design approach, and material usage have generation, and maintenance will be calculated also increased in popularity in response to the in the feasibility study. Determining if offshore sustainability movement. Finding economical, energy production is economically practical by non-polluting, and renewable energy sources are 2010 is the main goal of the project. very important for society and the environment. E2I president and CEO, T.J. Glauthier That being said, technological improvements and comments in the article that offshore wave creative thinking have propelled water power to energy is an exciting renewable, non-polluting the next level. electricity resource that could possibly serve as an Water power and the generation of alternative to fossil fuels. Site selection for energy electricity is typically only thought of in terms of conversion is a very specific matter. The chosen hydroelectric power, which is created from the study sites possess attributes required of wave damming of rivers to use the force of flowing water action and behavior, ocean depth, and a specific to turn turbines and generate electricity. Although rate of current. Other factors that E2I regard underestimated, ocean tides and wave action highly are coastal utility grid interconnection, design influences and technological assessment
have a great potential for producing electricity. In regional manufacturing infrastructure, and existing 12
introduction local harbors for converter placement. Current and hydrogen production” (OPT). estimates indicate a variety of ocean wave Ocean wave energy conversion can conversion devices, ranging from 500 to 1000 provide renewable energy for coastal cities and square feet in size, can annually capture and communities, but can also generate a new building generate more than 600 kW of energy. Estimates typology. Floating architecture can be coupled such as this one are actually conservative, with wave conversion practices to develop a new placing an efficiency rating of fifty percent on style of design. This new floating architecture must the generators (20). After redevelopment when draw upon the fundamental ideas of sustainable enhanced knowledge and technology is applied, design while also incorporating the methods and higher efficiency ratings will boost the generating procedures of wave energy extraction. Although power of the units. Dr. George W. Taylor, chief the specific possibilities, constraints, and design executive officer of Ocean Power Technology, methods of floating architecture, as well as ocean a division of E2I, states “wave energy has the wave energy conversion will be discussed in great distinct advantage over other renewable energy detail in a later chapter, the fundamental premise sources, in that it has high power density, excellent is outlined below. availability, and predictability. Water is about 1000 Although floating buildings sounds times more dense than air allowing smaller, lower outlandish, research presents strong opposition to cost wave energy conversion devices to extract this notion. For example, floating homes have been more energy from a smaller footprint (Ocean Power constructed in Vancouver, Canada and Sausalito, Technology). Within the same report presented California for decades. Floating architecture to the United States Committee on Commerce, is also beginning to be widely accepted in the Science, and Transportation, Dr. Taylor describes Netherlands where well known architects are the major advantages of ocean wave energy. For designing floating residential projects, youth example, wave conversion can occur all hours of hostels, pavilions, and research facilities (The Royal the day; therefore, when electrical energy usage Institute of Dutch Architects). Finally, floating is low during the nighttime “wave energy can be architecture is becoming an accepted design used for economically powering desalinization methodology for other commercial markets also. design influences and technological assessment
2.02 2.03 13
literature review The Royal Theatre in Copenhagen and the Nordic healthier and more rewarding place to live and Watercolor Museum in Sweden utilize floating work is important to each scheme. Various platforms for exterior treatments and public space, technological processes will also inform the as well as for the main structural foundation for the design methodology so this thesis project can buildings. Even designs for floating airports are utilize ocean wave energy, modular component being developed. The Kansai floating airport in systems, and various sustainable design principles Japan has been operational since 1994, and a to create a self-sustaining built environment. new prototype runway is currently undergoing Although further investigation is required testing in the Port of Yokosuka in the Tokyo Bay for these ideas to blossom into ideal sustainable (NKK). Locally, floating airport design is also techniques, strong arguments have already being considered for an expansion to the already been presented. The solution or combination of crowded San Diego airport (Sommer, 24). William solutions that will outweigh the others is yet to be Webster, a leading researcher of large floating determined, but the learning process will yield platforms, has stated that “with the price of land in unprecedented results, helping to create an California going sky high it’s only a matter of time environment that is overwhelmingly ecologically before we have to use our waterways for runways, responsible. apartments, and industry” (Sommer, 25). Floating research centers have been used for many years to study marine biology in deep ocean waters near Hawaii. One such vessel is the Floating Instrument Platform, or Flip, which is neither a ship nor a building, but somewhat of a hybrid structure. Also, the Sea Orbiter is a project currently in development by several public and private reserarch institutions, as well as Jacques Rougerie, a French architect known for avant-garde projects 2.04 designed for marine environments. Unlike Flip, the Sea Orbiter is a ocean-going vessel, but it contains living quarters and biomedical research space, making this vessel quite inspirational for the future of floating architecture. In conclusion, sustainability presents itself in many forms, from material selection, to biomimicry, to floating buildings and renewable energy. Although each articulation of what sustainability can and should be is very different, the main focus never wavers. Finding new solutions and design influences and technological assessment
possibilities to make the built environment a 2.05 14
literature review Powering a Building with Ocean Wave Energy Investigation of current energy usage portion of wave energy research, states ocean predicts fossil fuels to be an extinct energy source wave energy is “perpetual and therefore virtually within several decades. Even if this problem is inexhaustible.” Therefore, utilizing a free and self- ignored and natural resources are consumed at sustaining energy resource could be the answer today’s staggering rates, vast amounts of pollution for many coastal communities in the near future. will be generated by the usage of fossil fuels. The U.S. Department of Energy has stated that Looking ahead, it is evident that utilizing renewable “today it is technologically possible for renewable sources of energy will be vital to the success of the energy to supply more than 250 times the amount world’s population. of energy our nation uses each year,” making Presently, eighteen percent of the world’s it evident that once fossil fuels are unavailable total energy supply comes from renewables and there will be many energy alternatives (Carless, 8). great possibilities for future advancements exist When estimating ocean wave power, the World (Boyle, 7). Currently many renewable resources Energy Council believes the worldwide wave are in development and have been for quite some power resource to be two TW, or the equivalent of time, yet other renewable sources exist with limited 17,500 TWh of annual available resources. Looking knowledge and research invested at the present further, 605 GWh of electricity were generated time. from tide, wave, or ocean currents in the year Although initial research began in the 2000 (International Energy Agency, 15). Clearly 1970’s, ocean wave energy technology is still in the ocean wave energy is a viable resource for research, development, and demonstration stage. present-day applications, and following additional Only until recently has this resource managed development, this resource could become an to attract more attention on the global market. According to Paula Berinstein, author of Alternative Energy: Facts, Statistics, and Issues, an ocean wave conversion system is not commercially available at this time. However, several new advancements have taken place and foreign governments are implementing a variety of systems to combat rising fossil fuel prices. Ocean energy technology is proving to be cost competitive, and cheaper in some cases, than traditional fossil fuels and nuclear resources (44). Even though there has been a lack of development for ocean wave energy, there is not a lack of applicability for the resource. The design influences and technological assessment
International Energy Agency, who funds a large 2.06 15
powering a building with ocean wave energy international asset for many countries. Types of converters by location Ocean wave power is better developed - Fixed to the seabed, generally in shallow than ocean thermal or tidal power making this water technology more feasible for commercial use. - Floating offshore in deep water with a mooring Ocean wave energy is actually solar energy in system the form of wind that blows across the surface of - Tethered in intermediate depths with a mooring the sea to create waves. The amount of power system or fixed seabed system in ocean waves depends on a variety of factors and conditions. High wind speed and breadth Types of converters by extraction method generate greater amounts of power by inducing a - Surface Followers - uses a mechanical turbulent sea. Deep ocean waves also generate connection between a device that floats and retain more power than waves in shallow on the wave’s surface and a fixed pivot to water. Mechanical energy within the waves is convert the up and down motion of the wave converted into usable electricity by using a wave into electricity. energy conversion device. Extracting the energy - Pressure Activated (Oscillating Water Column) can be accomplished with an array of devices uses the varying head of water to produce that interact with the sea in a variety of behaviors varying pressure to force air through a turbine. (Berinstein, 44). - Focusing Devices - uses a physical barrier to Defining a conversion device’s geometry change the direction and structure of waves and orientation, relative location to the shoreline, to focus their energy to a point. and method of wave extraction is the best method to understand the various wave energy conversion Types of converters by geometry and orientation devices in current development. - Terminators - principle axis of device is parallel to incident waves to intercept them - Attenuators - perpendicular to waves, energy is gradually drawn to the device as the wave moves past it - Point Absorbers - same as attenuators, but have small dimensions relative to the incident wavelength
Prior to selecting a conversion device several issues must be brought into question. The efficiency rating and the expected annual output of the device are two starting places when sizing a device. Other topics to consider are: device
lifespan, maintenance concerns, visual impact design influences and technological assessment
2.07 and noise, ecological impact, and cost per kWh of 16
powering a building with ocean wave energy wave energy conversion devices 2.08 principle locations and extraction methods energy produced. Simple rules of thumb can be a generation are less costly than the average figures good starting point to help answer these questions. for wave devices, therefore a device that can For example, most devices in current development out-perform the competition while still matching a are reported to be twenty to thirty percent efficient project’s goals could be a prime candidate. The
and are able to produce electricity for seven to waves or ‘fuel’ for each device is a free resource, design influences and technological assessment twelve cents/ kWh. Conventional means of electric in turn making the operation and maintenance 17
powering a building with ocean wave energy costs the determining factor for success. Typically, devices must have a long lifespan and operate with few moving parts to survive in the harsh ocean conditions (Boyle, 332-333). One other aspect to consider is device location. In a feasibility study for wave generation near Hawaii, it was observed that “offshore systems have a much wider deployment potential, since they do not involve shoreline modification or breakwater construction.” The efficiency ratings wave power resources 2.09 kw/m and electricity generated by offshore devices is typically much greater than onshore devices due avoided (Boyle, 334). Pollution in the traditional to the inherent energy aspects of ocean waves at sense is not an issue with wave energy converters, depths of fifty to one-hundred meters which have making these devices far superior ecologically traveled long distances and gained vast amounts speaking. of potential energy (Department of Business, 14). Investigation of currently available Efficiency ratings are not the only unit of measure conversion devices will help determine the most for conversion devices. Investigation of a device’s suitable apparatus for my project. Specific site projected output is also of importance. Finding and design constraints that I have placed on a device that will match the energy needs of a the project help to narrow the field of available specific project will be critical so that energy is not devices. Wave converters designed for a shoreline wasted. Also, understanding the average output or fixed seabed application will not be considered capacity of a device is important because many due to my project being situated in deep waters. converters will not be able to produce electricity The remaining converters are floating and tethered at a constant rate or even at a rate close to devices. Although comparison of these devices is their maximum capacity (which is the rate often based on limited testing and development, a final reported) due to climatic and seasonal variations. selection must be made. Environmental concerns, which will be Technology of floating ocean energy discussed in a later chapter, can be crucial to devices has been explored by the United Kingdom, the selection of a specific device. Many ocean Japan, and Sweden. These countries are all wave devices in current development are far less excellent candidates for ocean wave conversion environmentally intrusive than non-renewable due to their location at the end of a long ocean sources of energy. Although “no form of energy, fetch, or uninterrupted expanse of sea. renewable or depletable, is pollution-free;” ocean The Floating Wave Power Vessel (FWPV) wave converters only have a small chance of developed by Swedish engineers was derived chemical pollution. Construction methods allow from shipbuilding practices. The device resembles for lubricating or hydraulic oil to be sealed within a large metal stanchion into which waves design influences and technological assessment
the device and potential contamination is easily are funneled and their rolling kinetic energy is 18
powering a building with ocean wave energy floating wave power vessel 2.10 transformed into electricity. Specifically, waves are channeled into the device and spill into a Kaplan hydroelectric turbine before returning to the ocean. Typically, the device is moored in fifty to eighty meter deep water, where it has a maximum capacity of generating 1.5 MW of electricity at a cost of twelve cents/kWh. Although this device could be integrated into the design of a larger building or structure, the output far exceeds the power requirements of the building designed for this thesis project (Boyle 318). pelamis 2.11, 2.12 Before proceeding, it should be noted that one determining factor in the ocean wave amounts of ocean energy can be produced, while conversion device selection process is the facility also allowing for a slight over-production of energy size and programmatic function. Although outlined which can be stored for periods of insufficient in a forthcoming chapter, a marine research energy generation. facility measuring approximately 50,000 square Another conversion device is Pelamis, feet and requiring 400-500 kW is explored within this developed by Dr. Richard Yemm of the United thesis problem. Selecting the proper ocean wave Kingdom. Pelamis is made of three cylindrical conversion device or appropriate technologies to sections hinged together which twist and bob inform a new type of conversion device hinges when subjected to wave action. The wave motion upon a comprehensive understanding of electrical of the snake-like device is resisted at the joints by requirements for such a facility. For example, hydraulic rams that pump high pressure oil through various wave converters produce several hundred hydraulic motors. Electricity is produced when kW; making these devices substantially over-sized the hydraulic motors drive electric generators for this type of application. On the other hand, and send the power to land or floating structure a variety of devices perform within the necessary via a sub-sea cable. This device would operate design influences and technological assessment
range. By utilizing one of these devices, adequate independently of a built structure because the 19
powering a building with ocean wave energy the mighty whale 2.13 plan and elevation device needs open water to flop through. Being Pelamis has a maximum rated capacity of 750 an attenuator, Pelamis sits perpendicular to the kW, making the device far too productive for an waves instead of parallel to them which enables application I might consider. However, lower the device to be capable of load shedding, or rated prototypes were developed and could be the ability to reduce dynamuic loading on the used for a design project. In comparison to other device due to the relative position to the waves. devices, Pelamis has incurred more testing and By cutting through ocean waves, this device has been investigated from an ecological point inherently has fewer maintenance issues than of view making this device quite attractive (Boyle, other devices, while being able to ride out storms 321-322). design influences and technological assessment
more efficiently and produce more electricity. One ocean wave converter in 20
powering a building with ocean wave energy energetech 2.14 plan and elevation development since the 1970’s is referred to as the employs a breakwater type of strategy which ‘Mighty Whale’ by Japanese engineers. Acting as dampens wave action and provides calmer a terminator, waves crash into the front face of water behind the device. Also, a leisure platform the device where water rushes into one of three is incorporated into the design and could possibly internal chambers. Within these chambers, or serve as a stable space for onlookers (Boyle, 317). oscillating water column, the surging wave action Energetech is a wave conversion device causes the water level to rise and fall which forces similar to the Mighty Whale. An Australian-based air through a self-reciprocating Wells turbine. company, Energetech (both the company name
Overall, the device has been rated at 110 kW with and title of the conversion device) has developed design influences and technological assessment
a fifteen percent efficiency rating. The Whale this wave converter in the Port of Kembla near 21
powering a building with ocean wave energy Sydney. During the research and development near-shore application, the technology utilized phases of the project it was determined the could be inspiration for neoteric endeavors that oscillating water column technology employed are not limited to shallow waters. According within Energetech could operate with eighty to Energetech founder Dr. Tom Denniss, “the percent efficiency to produce a 500 kW maximum Energetech technology now makes it possible annual output. As mentioned earlier, Energetech for wave energy to provide a cheap, sustainable is very similar to the Mighty Whale in that an source of power or water to grid-connected and oscillating water column and Wells turbine are remote users” (Energetech). used to produce viable electricity from ocean Another exciting feature of the Energetech wave power. One significant difference between device is the ability to act as a desalinization plant these two devices is the method each device while converting ocean wave energy. When captures the ocean waves. For example, the the device is operating in desalinization mode Mighty Whale simply allows waves to rush in an 520 gallons of potable water can be produced out of air chambers at will, while Energetech each day. Remarkably, this resource is created uses a parabolic wall to focus waves toward using only water and power harnessed directly the oscillating water column chambers; leading from the ocean. Although this component of to a higher efficiency rating and energy output the Energetech system is currently unavailable for (Energetech). For instance, a wave entering the commercial use, the possibilities associated with conversion device can be amplified as much as this device may delineate the future of ocean three times at its focal point due to the parabolic wave energy conversion (Energetech). collector (Boyle, 331). The device should be One last device, envisioned in Sweden, situated so that incoming wave crests propagate is the AquaBuoy system. This device contains a parallel to the parabolic axis of symmetry to ensure long open tube attached to the underside of a the highest possible efficiency rating and power buoy. Within the tube is a piston that pumps in output. Also, a relatively flat, yet deep seafloor response to the water moving in and out of the is optimal for Energetech wave conversion. A flat tube. Electricity is produced by the interaction of seafloor is needed to prevent alterations to the the buoy and the water which is stored within a wave direction while moderate depth is necessary hydraulic accumulator. The accumulator is used to avoid breaking and dissipation of incoming so the device can provide a reasonably smooth wave crests as they enter the focusing parabola output of electricity. Rated at 100 kW, this device (Energetech). is appropriately sized for a 50,000 sq ft building. Looking to the future, Energetech officials AquaBuoys can be coupled together to create predict wave power will attain ten percent of a wave farm if larger amounts of electricity is the combined market share for solar, wind, and needed. Utilization of the AquaBuoy is possible wave power. It is also believed the Energetech for “slender electricity networks or small islands” device will be able to produce electricity for less (Boyle, 323). than four cents/ kWh. Although the Energetech Based on output ratings, the Whale design influences and technological assessment
device has been designed for a shoreline or and AquaBuoy are excellent choices for an 22
powering a building with ocean wave energy application much like my proposed project. Albeit thesis question, it is quite evident that creating a the AquaBuoy system can produce the necessary design system which merges building form, built amount of energy, the extraction method environment, and programmatic function should opposes the thesis design ideology. For example, be envisioned under the auspices of sustainable the AquaBuoy must be located 200 hundred feet design methodologies and renewable ocean from another fixed object due to the surging and energy processes. heaving motion of the device. The inability to unite conversion device and building form eliminates this apparatus from being used within this thesis project. Therefore, the Mighty Whale or another oscillating columnar device must be developed. Although Energetech is capable of producing more energy than this thesis project would require, the inherent creativity and technological advancements can become a launching point for another progressive ocean wave energy conversion device. Utilizing the oscillating water column will afford needed flexibility and possible integration of wave technology and building form. Reviewing the aqua buoy 2.15 design influences and technological assessment
extraction methods and components 2.16 23 wave energy device flow diagram
powering a building with ocean wave energy design influences and technological assessment
oscillating water column 2.17 24 principle functions and components
powering a building with ocean wave energy Rejuvenating Typology: Designing on Water Building on water is not a new design idea rescue stations, power plants, storage facilities, by any measure. Floating bridges have been and luxury resorts. used since biblical times and continue to be an Countries with long coastlines and accepted means of traversing rivers and lakes. island nations with scarce land resources are For example, Seattle has three floating bridges beginning to resort to land reclamation “to ease crossing Lake Washington, all measuring over a mile the pressure on existing heavily used land and in length. Deep waters are also home to floating underground spaces” says E. Watanabe of the bridges. Two fjords over 900 feet deep were Kyoto University Department of Civil and Earth recently spanned in the mid 1990’s in Norway using Resources Engineering in Japan (1). Extensive large pontoon type floatation devices. Floating land reclamation programs have been initiated causeways and bridges are also commonly in the Netherlands, Japan, and Singapore where used among the military to transport soldiers and land is sold at a high premium due to the lack of equipment from ships to the shore (Ertekin and buildable terrain in these growing countries. For Riggs, 112). During the 1920’s Edward Armstrong, example, the Kansai International Airport in Osaka, a Canadian/American engineer, proposed the Japan was constructed on reclaimed land as well seadrome; or an aerodrome in the sea to be used as floating platforms. Typically, fill material from as stopping points for airplanes flying across the seabeds, hills, underground excavations, and oceans. Armstrong’s idea was formulated around construction debris are used to build-up the sea 1920’s technology where planes could not travel floor in shallow coastal areas to create valuable long distances and required countless refueling open space. Structurally, building on reclaimed stops. The trans-Atlantic flight of Charles Lindbergh land is a poor choice and appears to be more quieted enthusiasm for Armstrong’s ideas which injudicious in tectonically unstable regions of the were eventually halted by the stock market crash world like Japan. Land reclamation can only be of 1929. Even today floating airports are one of the accomplished in water less than twenty meters potential uses for water architecture. Other uses deep, and is not cost effective or feasible in areas range from floating military bases, emergency with a soft seabed. Furthermore, marine habitats design influences and technological assessment
lake washington floating bridge 2.18 seadrome 2.19 25
rejuvenating typology: designing on water semi-submersible 2.20 pontoon 2.21 very large floating structure very large floating structure are destroyed by land reclamation. Toxic sediments or ballast members are used to reduce the can also be unearthed during the execution of damaging effects of waves while maintaining a these practices. Alternatives do exist however for stable buoyancy force. Semi-submersible floating building in deep water with a variety of subsurface structures can also be anchored to the seabed conditions. Very Large Floating Structures, or VLFS, with pretension vertical tethers. Generally called can be used to create a new built environment on tension-leg platforms, these floating platforms lakes and oceans (Watanabe, 1). use pretensioned chains or cables to provide Very large floating structures have been the structure with additional load resistance theoretically discussed at The University of Hawaii (Watanabe, 1). Oil drilling platforms usually fall at Manoa for several years. UH civil engineering into this category of floating structure while various professor, Dr. Ronald Riggs states, “VLFS refers to a anchoring methods can be used with this type structure that is typically so large that it cannot be of structure. Oil platforms can be fixed to the considered a rigid body, like a ship or an offshore seabed with concrete caissons, steel jackets, oil platform…[the design must] take into account and grouted piles. It should be noted that each the structural dynamics, elasticity, and flexibility aforementioned method is an example of the of the body” (Xtreme Engineering). Presently antithesis to a floating platform and VLFS. there are two forms of VLFS; semi-submersible and The term oil drilling platform is a misleading pontoon type structures. The semi-submersible expression due to connotations of environmental floating structure is characterized by the major unfriendliness and inherent unattractiveness. While elements of the structure being lifted out of the drilling platforms and ocean rigs misrepresent the water. Columns or ballast members attached to a technologies explored within this thesis project, buoyant underwater hull are used to raise the main they do generate viable precedents in terms structure above the water. The entire structure is of building form. Rising above crashing waves, anchored to the seabed with mooring cables or these structures are protected from the sea while uses propellers to maintain a constant location by maintaining a metaphorical connection to the way of dynamic positioning. Areas of high seas benthic environment. Within the Precedent Analysis design influences and technological assessment and large waves are the primary candidates for chapter, drilling platforms will be examined further, semi-submersible floating structures. The columns along with other seafloor-anchored structures. 26
rejuvenating typology: designing on water A pontoon-type floating structures is the other form of a VLFS. Acting like an oversized plate floating on the water, pontoon structures are most useful in relatively calm waters such as near a shoreline or inside a cove or lagoon. In Japan, where pontoon floating structures have been heavily researched, the system is commonly elastic response 2.22 very large floating structure called a Megafloat. Assuming a rectilinear design, a Megafloat has at least one dimension measuring propagation of local deflection cause by waves more than 200 feet in length to ensure proper from one end of the floating structure to the other” ocean wave attenuation (Watanabe, 2). (Shuku, 40). Although the movement caused by Although the schematic design is slightly elastic response is very small and generally cannot different from a semi-submersible, the Megafloat be noticed, it must be considered when designing has several advantages over land reclamation a floating structure. Some inherent flexibility ought processes. The primary advantage of a Megafloat to be built into the mooring system so the VLFS can is the ability to operate in any depth of water. Any move with respect to wave action. The VLFS’s conventional mooring device can be used with this ability to maintain a constant relationship with the system, providing a multitude of design possibilities water level enables boats and other watercraft from an architectural point of view. For example, to come near and even dock onto the structure a chain or cable can be used to fix the structure (Watanabe, 2). to the seabed preventing pitching, rolling, and Horizontal movement of the Megafloat is capsizing. Vertical oscillations of the Megafloat exhausted with rigid connections to a properly are acceptable yet generally unnoticeable specified mooring system. Primarily, mooring due to relative positioning of the device within systems are used to prevent the structure from a given wavelength and period of a series of drifting towards a tangential shoreline. Without a ocean waves. According to Masanori Shuku of mooring system, the wave and wind forces acting the Shipbuilding and Ocean Division at Mitsubishi on the Megafloat would drive the floating structure Heavy Industries, a VLFS “covers many cycles of away from the intended location (Watanabe, 11). wave crests and wave troughs, causing the waves Minimal ecological impact is another to cancel each other out, and is therefore not benefit of Megafloats when compared to land affected by the movement of waves under it” (40). reclamation. The construction and installation Also, the expansive nature of the floating device process of Megafloats do not disturb marine tends to dampen any wave action; preventing ecosystems or interrupt ocean or tidal currents. seasickness and any unsettling notions commonly Land reclamation tends to agitate subsurface observed with smaller watercraft (Watanabe, sediments which pose immense threat to animal 11). According to Shuku, VLFS are affected and plant communities (Watanabe, 2). slightly by the deflection phenomenon known as Modular design is another attractive design influences and technological assessment
elastic response. This response “is an oscillatory characteristic of Megafloats. These floating 27
rejuvenating typology: designing on water cable or chain mooring method 2.23 tension-leg mooring method 2.24 very large floating structure very large floating structure systems are generally assembled in a shipyard and (Ohmatsu, 1). then towed to their moored location. Expansion Alluded to earlier, the cable or chain and relocation are viable options with Megafloat method is the most archaic yet universally also. Due to their modular design, it would be accepted mooring system available. A series very simple to connect additional sections to of cables attached to the sides of the floating the floating structure whenever more space was structure run diagonally to the seabed where needed. New technologies for on-site marine they are fixed with grouted borings. When underwater welding have developed significantly catenary mooring chains are used “the horizontal in recent years. Underwater connections can easily wave forces are balanced by inertia forces” be made within an accuracy rate of one to two (Watanabe, 11). Although the seabed must be inches (Okamura, 23). In addition to underwater disturbed slightly in all mooring applications, the welding machinery, global positioning system, or cable method poses minimal threat to marine GPS technology can be used to aid in the precise ecosystems. Slightly more arcane, the tension connection process (NKK Corporation). leg method of mooring is also available. Acting Four distinct mooring systems can be in a similar manner to the chain method, the used with either a semi-submersible or Megafloat tension-leg method uses pretensioned chains or structure. The selection and design of a mooring cables to secure the floating structure. Additional system is critical to ensure safety, reliability, and buoyancy is required to oppose the additional little maintenance. Selecting the appropriate forces of the pretensioning. Although this mooring mooring system is the first step of the design system can be quite strong, Watanabe suggests process, followed by the investigation of shock “that it will be difficult to design the system such absorbing materials and corrosion protection. that slack of leeward mooring lines are avoided” Shock absorbing materials are essential to dampen (12). Mooring failure is of great concern when small movements and allow the system to remain designing these systems. Any amount of slack flexible. Conversely, the primary components of in the chains could generate an increase in the the systems are designed to be rigid to reduce tension of the cables and result in a dynamic
the possibility for “displacement of the structure amplification of the loading, causing immediate design influences and technological assessment in the case of severe sea condition like a typhoon failure. Possibilities of failure have slowed testing 28
rejuvenating typology: designing on water and research of the tension-leg system, making this also be addressed: mooring method somewhat undesirable. Posing dead loads seabed movement the greatest danger to the marine environment is wind loads live loads storm surges affect of wave action the dolphin-frameguide method. This method uses ocean currents earthquakes and tsunamis vertical truss members to resist wave action. These watercraft waves tidal chages structures must carry all vertical loads of self-weight hydrostatic pressure effect of drifting bodies in addition to loads caused by waves, wind, and *data collected from Watanabe, 12. ocean currents. Subsequently, this surface wave Very large floating structures provide action conveys extreme overturning moments and immense possibilities for future ocean architecture. bending forces on the vertical frame. Therefore, Building on water is an acceptable design large borings or piles must be made into the seabed methodology as seen with extensive testing and to stabilize the massive truss members (Watanabe, research in Japan. Generating an alternative 11). Heavy sedimentation typically results from solution to land reclamation and traditional the installation of this mooring system, creating a construction practices, floating structures aim to hefty imbalance in the marine ecosystem. One create a new built environment full of life, vigor, and final system is the pier mooring method. Directly technology integration. A public understanding of connecting a floating structure to a shoreline pier how traditional land based architecture promotes is the main concept of this system. Although there deforestation and the contamination of soil and is little habitat destruction if the system is anchored water, off-shore floating structures have the ability to an existing pier, this system can only be used to become the building typology of the future. in shallow waters near a shoreline. Irregardless of Jyanzi Kong, professor at the National University which system is being implemented, the design of Singapore School of Architecture, believes “our must be created for two different loading patterns. mind-set about buildings must be changed from For example, peak loading on the structure caused one that is about the solid ground, to that of the by permanent and variable loads can govern the liquid sea.” Floating structures will merely displace design process, or the desired fatigue strength water while providing a habitat for marine life used to combat cyclic wave loading can guide as they also campaign against the hazards of the design. For deep-sea floating structures, the conventional design practices. Energy efficiency chain mooring system would be the most desirable is an added advantage of VLFS. Located on the due to lessened risks on marine habitats and the ocean, floating structures can easily utilize the high dependability of the system (Watanabe, 23- natural energy resources of the sun, wind, and 24). water. Adapting new technologies will also allow Each type of VLFS and mooring system these structures to reuse waste, limit pollution, and has significant advantages and disadvantages. give back to the natural environment; promoting Many combinations of these systems can be used bio-diversity. The previous century advocated to create a strong and efficient floating structure, architecture soaring into the sky; within this century but a variety of other design parameters still exist. architecture spreading into the ocean is highly design influences and technological assessment
When designing a VLFS the following issues should anticipated and should be celebrated. 29
rejuvenating typology: designing on water Ecological Implications of Wave Energy Conversion and Floating Architecture Although there are several advantages conversion device will have some affect on the to designing on the open seas, the ecological natural environment in which it operates. Currently, implications of this methodology must also be there is no form of energy that is pollution-free investigated. Ocean architecture may help according to Paula Berinstein, author of Alternative alleviate the immediate land-shortage crisis for Energy: Facts, Statistics, and Issues. For example, many countries while also crafting a new design the manufacturing process of photovoltaic cells typology, yet the comprehensive impact of this requires energy from fossil fuels (44). At this time solution has not been fully realized at this time. developers of wave energy conversion devices Similarly, ocean wave energy conversion may are confident the technology will pose very little pose a variety of threats to aquatic life. Both negative environmental impact. systems will interact with the ocean environment Interaction with marine life and seabirds in similar fashions because each scheme relies on is of great concern to wave energy developers. a moored structure being placed in the water. Many marine mammals, such as grey whales, Marine animal response to floating structures, are migratory creatures and would have to modifications to wave action, potential chemical swim around conversion devices if placed within pollutants, and the possible influence on the water migration paths. Presently, there are several column in terms of increased sedimentation must oil production platforms within travel patterns be further researched. Significant testing has not of grey whales. Research indicates the whales been completed in all of these areas for both have become accustomed to the platforms and floating structures and wave energy conversion, seem to not be affected by their placement therefore ecological assessment must be or any noise the platforms may emit into the presented in a broad manner for both systems. water. Consequently, some platforms have been Research and testing for wave power converted into whale watching stations for the is ongoing in the United States. Currently the general public and scientific observers. Also, Electricity Innovation Institute (E2I), the Electric it should be noted that any wave conversion Power Research Institute (EPRI), and Global Energy device located more than four kilometers offshore Partners LLC (Global) are working with state energy will have almost no impact on the grey whales agencies to develop renewable wave energy (Hagerman, 9). Seabirds and pinnipeds (seals sources. George Hagerman, principle investigator and sea lions) may use floating structures as a of the research project, states the ultimate place of refuge. Although colonization by seals or objective of these companies is to provide, birds is not problematic to unmanned structures, “efficient, reliable, environmentally friendly, and great care would need to be taken to prevent cost-effective electrical energy and to create a harm to the animals on manned structures or push towards the development of a sustainable when maintenance occurs to unmanned devices commercial market for this technology” (3). In a (Hagerman, 11). design influences and technological assessment
primary report, Hagerman concludes that a wave Construction of floating devices will 30
ecological implications of wave energy conversion and floating architecture temporarily affect the transparency of the water device output should not be the only concern. column due to disturbance of underwater debris. Caisson-based structures, which are typically built Schemes that alter the seabed should be avoided in shallow waters, should be avoided at all costs because increased sedimentation will result from because kelp destruction is inevitable. Hagerman device installation. Moreover, floating structures states, “floating devices that can be sited well and conversion devices located near a shoreline seaward of the kelp are expected to have much are more susceptible to ecological degradation less impact” than caisson-based devices (12). of natural flora and fauna and therefore should be Positive impacts can also result from the installation avoided. Although temporary damage will result of floating devices. For example, the manner in and recolonization of shellfish and fish communities which a floating structure acts on phytoplankton should occur within a season, seafloor disturbance in the water column is worth investigation. should be limited, and if possible restricted to Phytoplankton are fundamentally connected to deeper waters. A variety of wave conversion the marine food chain, serving as a foundation devices rely of sub-sea cables or pipelines for almost all other ocean predators. According to transmit energy generated back to shore. to Masanori Shuku of the Shipbuilding and Ocean Installation of cables generally affects a region of Division at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a floating five meters across and increased sedimentation structure should have no impact on phytoplankton may affect organisms over a much larger area. flows. Water immediately under and behind a Marine communities are able to recover from such floating structure exhibiting decreased currents disturbance, but attempts to limit or avoid such and wave action are able to regain momentum destruction should be implemented (Hagerman, after passing by the structure and are able to 11). provide the phytoplankton with a proper habitat Macro algae and coralline algae provide (43). food sources for a bevy of marine organisms. Coastal sedimentary interaction with Designing conversion devices with consideration floating structures is also a great concern when to the natural food chain is imperative to minimize designing a conversion device or structure. Littoral destruction of the benthic ecosystem (Hagerman, drift, or the deposit of sediment on a coastline by 11). Growing from Alaska to Baja California, giant wave action, can be severely compromised when kelp beds provide food and shelter for many an offshore structure is built. Opposing erosion marine animals and a thorough understanding of forces, littoral drift is essential to maintain coastline bed positioning should be acquired when choosing integrity. Structures using a breakwater may a site for a floating structure or conversion device. inhibit wave action and the deposit of sediments, Placing a wave conversion device directly behind and therefore should be avoided. Alternatively, a kelp bed is effectively like placing a wind-farm floating structures and conversions devices should behind a grove of trees. Computer modeling be used because they have little impact on indicates waves passing through a kelp bed in neighboring shorelines. For example, any wave fifteen meters of water result in an eighty percent energy not absorbed by the device will pass by design influences and technological assessment
reduction in wave height and power. Limits to the the structure and move to the shoreline. Any wave 31
ecological implications of wave energy conversion and floating architecture action subdued by a floating structure is recreated on the leeward side of the device within a few kilometers and will act normally upon a coastline (Hagerman, 15). Floating structures and wave conversion devices can pollute ocean water with hydraulic oils and other chemicals. Devices using oil in the conversion process have the ability to leak and contaminate water; therefore devices using air or seawater to produce electricity have a lesser visual obtrusiveness of wind power 2.25 potential for contamination. Another maintenance concern of floating structures is the accumulation visual appearance. In the Pacific Ocean, the shelf of marine organisms on the structure which can extends ten km offshore and then the seafloor falls severely compromise the efficiency and safety off rapidly, making mooring costs very high. If visual of the device. The accumulation organisms, discreteness is not desired the structure can be known as marine bio-fouling, must be avoided contrasting in color to the ocean waters. Not only on all conversion devices and floating structures. does the structure need to be properly marked for Periodic cleaning can be accomplished by moving navigational purposes, but it also can be used as the structure to dry-docks for the application of an a tourist attraction. The EPRI study has found that organic coating which prevents bio-fouling. On an isolated device in the United Kingdom’s Isle the other hand, divers can also clean the structure of Islay has become a tourist attraction during its by hand on regular intervals. Applying a resistant commissioning (Hagerman, 18-19). coating that can last up to seven years is very Underwater noise emissions are also of desirable when compared to periodic cleaning concern for devices using a Well’s turbine for (Hagerman, 16). electric generation. Specific steps can be taken to Visual appearance of a floating device reduce the amount of sound the turbine gives off, should also be a point of analysis. The International but dampening the sound may prove to be futile. Visibility Code indicates that a six foot tall observer For example, a turbine off the southwest coast of standing at the shoreline has an offshore visibility India produces a local noise level of seventy to of 5.2 km under normal sea conditions. To prevent ninety dB. At the shoreline, more than 650 meters a structure from being seen it should be located from the device, the noise level is only reduced outside of the visibility range. Also, this range is to sixty dB and resembles an airplane constantly very similar to the three-nautical mile geographical flying overhead. Due to noise concerns, devices limit (5.6 km). The geographical limit defines the and structures operating at lower noise intensities Outer Continental Shelf, or the boundary between are greatly desired (Hagerman, 20). water governed by the adjacent state and waters Insertion of a floating structure should under federal control (Hagerman, 18). Placing not interfere with other uses of sea space. For design influences and technological assessment
devices on or near the shelf will greatly reduce example, the deployment of a device should not 32
ecological implications of wave energy conversion and floating architecture occur near offshore fossil fuel production or in the Ryn, believes “designing with nature suggests an wake of shipping lanes and harbor entrances. A ongoing partnership with nature, one that benefits safety zone of 500 meters should be observed both people and ecosystems” (104). Following when choosing a site for an offshore floating Van der Ryn’s thinking, the regeneration of device. Sport fishing, scuba diving, and areas of marine ecosystems and the adaptation to natural recreation are other common uses of open waters. environmental flows are encouraging aspects of Locating a floating structure away from established this new architectural typology and renewable recreational activities is advised (Hagerman, 22). energy resource. Future endeavors in floating However, construction of a floating structure may architecture can provide yet another way for provide a tourist attraction as previously stated and design and nature to be interwoven. can provide a new habitat for marine creatures. In recent years it has been observed that marine protected areas are of great importance to the survival and regeneration of marine ecosystems (Hagerman, 21). Although there are several aspects to consider when designing a floating structure, an efficient and well-suited structure can result from proper installation. Renewable energy generation and the development of new inhabitable spaces are positive attributes of a floating structure.
Environmentally minded designer, Sym Van der macroalgae 2.26 design influences and technological assessment 33
ecological implications of wave energy conversion and floating architecture LEED Guidelines and Sustainable Design Methodologies “Passive design” and “sustainable guidelines can provide a well-balanced and methodologies” are quickly becoming the structured design approach. As mentioned earlier, catchphrases of the architectural community. LEED needs to be incorporated into a design as Advocating ecologically responsible design passive strategies and not as a checklist of items. is an excellent step in the right direction for That being said, utilizing the LEED framework can architecture of the present and future. The present a system of checks and balances or trade- design community is striving to produce buildings offs to arrive at the best possible resolution for the that are environmentally accountable through site, water usage, energy consumption, materials the “Leadership in Energy and Environmental palette, and indoor environment. Design,” or LEED program. Acting as a “voluntary, The first section of the LEED rating consensus-based national standard for developing system is the ‘Sustainable Sites’ category. high-performance sustainable buildings,” LEED Consideration and adaptation of environmental is an industry leader in the methodology of the criteria such as erosion and sediment control, future (USGBC). Yet, a mere checklist of green brownfield remediation, urban redevelopment, strategies does not necessarily make a building and alternative modes of transportation are good architecture from an aesthetic or ecological all important design issues investigated within point of view. Although designing with the LEED this section of LEED. Also explored during the criteria in mind is an acceptable practice, it is not site selection process are means to limit site the only solution to the deplorable status quo of disturbance, manage stormwater, reduce the the built environment. heat island effect, and lessen the amount of The education component of the LEED light pollution. Finally, minimizing the project’s rating system is quite inspirational. Designing impact on surrounding areas before, during, and a building that responds to a user’s needs and after construction is another main idea of this actions while also teaching them about their section (LEED Reference Guide, 7). Although the built environment could actually be a point of LEED guidelines have been generated for new motivation for the reinvention of the occupant’s construction and renovation projects, integrating daily lives. Therefore, building on a body of water, these ideas into a project developed on the water disconnected from the historical parameters of will be somewhat difficult. While the principles what a building is and ought to be, can allow users and ecological underpinnings of this section have to rethink architecture and how buildings can be merit and should be used throughout the design used. Not only can a building inform the occupants process they will have to be restructured for a very about sustainable design, alternative energy unique site. For example, urban redevelopment sources, and unconventional building practices, principles will not be integral, but groundwater but it can also signify the importance of nature and site runoff is an important issue to consider so and ecological responsibility in architecture. that pollutants do not enter the surrounding ocean design influences and technological assessment
Throughout the design process the LEED waters. The building and site design may also be 34
LEED guidelines and sustainable design methodologies used to bio-remediate contaminated waters by the third section of LEED. providing food and shelter for marine organisms Presently, there are many design practices and aquatic life. which allow harmful emissions to penetrate the Along the same mode of thinking is air, water, and soil, leading to contamination of ‘Water Efficiency,’ the second section of LEED. the environment as a whole. Reducing ozone Overall, this section looks to enhance the depleting materials and the dependence of design process with water efficient landscaping, fossil fuels can greatly enhance the natural world innovative wastewater technologies, and and the quality of a building. By understanding water use reduction. According to the LEED 2.1 the principles presented in this section of LEED, reference guide, high water usage increases the designers can begin to generate schemes that maintenance and life-cycle costs for a building as utilize green or renewable power as well as well as increases the amount of sewage and waste dramatically reduce levels of energy consumption water that must be treated. Water conservation inside the building. Various energy saving tactics can be easily implemented during the procedures are presently available that will design process and generally yield a savings of reduce energy loads. For example, “improved 30 percent or more (LEED Reference Guide, 79). glazing, insulation, daylighting, and passive solar Using non-potable water for landscape irrigation, features may allow the design team to downsize or toilet and urinal flushing, and custodial purposes even eliminate mechanical HVAC systems” (LEED are just a few of the simple measures that can Reference Guide, 109). By utilizing ocean wave be enacted to reduce water consumption. power, a building will be able to use renewable Other water conservation strategies that can energy to reduce operating costs and generate be implemented include biological wastewater great savings for the environment. treatment, rainwater harvesting, and greywater The fourth section of the LEED guidelines plumbing systems (LEED Reference Guide, 79). looks at the ‘Materials and Resources’ used in the Innovative water technologies will have to be an design of a building. Due to procedures used to intrinsic design solution due to the remote location extract, process, and transport building resources, of a floating building. For example, municipal the “building materials choices are important in water and waste infrastructure cannot be utilized sustainable design” (LEED Reference Guide, 185). for such a project, therefore creative technologies Presently, forty percent of the total solid waste in supporting daily activities and scientific research the United States comes from building construction must be attained. and demolition. Therefore reusing old buildings ‘Energy and Atmosphere’ is the third or building materials is a great way to prolong category within LEED. Designing building systems the life-cycle of a product before sending it to a to function at the minimum required performance landfill (LEED Reference Guide, 185). Although level, as well as optimizing the energy performance reusing another building is not feasible for this within the building are the main goals of this project, there is a lot of potential in the reuse of old section. Measurement and verification of clean building materials and components. For example, design influences and technological assessment
energy systems are also core ideas presented in salvaged wood or scrap metal could be used as a 35
LEED guidelines and sustainable design methodologies flooring and façade wall system. Also, designing Regulating these products is the main goal of this with certified wood resources, such as wood that LEED section along with specification of specific comes from a sustainably managed forest or rapidly ventilation ratios, filters, and HVAC systems. In renewing wood like bamboo, are magnificent some cases it can be advantageous to install ways to design with the environment in mind. automatic sensors that are calibrated with the On-site storage and collection of recyclables is HVAC system to “adjust temperature, humidity, another great construction management plan and the percentage of outside air introduced to to reduce the building industry’s environmental occupied spaces (LEED Reference Guide, 239). impact. Generally speaking, many of the building Finally, ‘Indoor Environmental Quality’ is practices outlines in the LEED rating system are the last component to the LEED rating system. feasible for any design project. Although this thesis Regulation of tobacco smoke within a building, project would greatly benefit from adhering to the carbon dioxide monitoring, and ventilation LEED standards, it could be very difficult to reach effectiveness are all aspects of this section. Other LEED status due to the site location and proximity design strategies explored include “daylighting to natural resources. That being said, design ideas and lighting quality, thermal comfort, acoustics, presented in LEED for daylighting, water collection occupant control of building systems, and access and usage, material selection, ventilation, energy to outdoor views” (LEED Reference Guide, 239). use, and solar gain are all viable solutions for this Health and public safety awareness actually has project. Development of LEED principles will help stimulated the growth of this subject matter in carry this project in the eco-friendly direction and recent years. According to the U.S. Environmental therefore cannot be ignored. Protection Agency’s 1999 Air Quality Guidelines, “a person’s daily exposure to many air pollutants comes through the inhalation of indoor air.” In fact, this 1999 study revealed that many building pollutants “can cause health reactions in the estimated seventeen million Americans who suffer from asthma and forty million who have allergies” (LEED Reference Guide, 239). Many polishes, paints, and stains used in the building industry contain hazardous VOC’s, or volatile off- gassing compounds, which can lead to respiratory problems, nausea, or a general lack of comfort. 2.27 design influences and technological assessment 36
LEED guidelines and sustainable design methodologies 2.28
37 facility. research marine off-shore sustainable a create be to successfully to implemented need and explored further that goals of collection or system of key design points. The following listing is a value discovery the to lead has conversion power wave ocean and architecture, floating sustainability, ventilation thepotentialofdaylighting, solargain,and - usebuildingorientation tomaximize - incorporateculture,ecology, andtechnology andsurroundingsiteconditions - understandthenaturalenvironment andbuiltenvironments - connecttheend-usertonatural - designwiththeend-userinmind n netgto o te icus on discourse the of investigation An section3_0: summationand
h poet Smlry udrtnig h natural the understanding Similarly, project. the of success it the to critical be will form built implementing the into and device conversion definite wave a Choosing ocean conversion. and energy buildings wave floating of hazards and constraints, possibilities, design methods, various the account into take will design the Specifically, notharmtheaquaticenvironment - findmooringandfoundationsystemsthatwill buildingfootprint - functionsneedtobestackedconservethe - utilizealternativepowersources design revitalizethereplenishresourcesusedin - usenaturalandlocalmaterials - utilizewastemanagementsystems - wasteequalsfood proposed outcome research summary
38 ecology of the project site will be of utmost importance in order to avoid hazardous design decisions. For example, observing the climate and topography of the site both above the water and below will allow for a greater connection to the environment and natural processes already at work. Further investigation of marine research facilities and remote research stations will also prove vital to the design process. Gaining a thorough knowledge of the operational procedures of research stations will provide insight to the planning and programming aspects of the building, as well as understanding how the spaces will be used on a day to day basis. Finally, pinning down the specific research tasks to be accomplished within the building will help to facilitate the project to the specific needs of the occupants, both scientist and outside observer. 3.01 summation and proposed outcome 39
research summary Proposition By studying the ongoing research and - photovoltaic cells and wind power will supple precedents of new technologies to harness ment ocean power when needed the power of ocean waves I can more fully - no fossil fuels will be used to power the building understand how renewable non-polluting energy - the built form will be located seaward and float independently of land-based infrastructure can be created in conjunction with innovative building practices. Also, by incorporating various sustainable practices such as passive solar Within the building, research and gain, daylighting, renewable material usage, monitoring of various sub-sea phenomenons and waste reduction, a new typology of built will be explored. Examination and evaluation environments can emerge when coupled with of sea-surface temperatures, salinity, water ocean wave conversion and other technological currents, local marine ecology, and pollution methodologies. levels can all be investigated inside the facility. Specifically, I propose to design a Although investigated in a subsequent chapter, marine research facility in the Pacific Ocean the specific site for the project would be located off the Northern California coast. The resulting near Cape Mendocino, California. Various built environment will have minimal ecological factors were considered during the site selection impact and restore natural processes while being process including ocean wave energy, regional completely independent of national power, connectivity, climate, and natural features. This water, and waste infrastructure. Renewable non- particular site has also been positioned near the polluting energy will be used in conjunction with intersection of the Cascadia Subduction Zone new building practices to achieve a self-sustaining and the San Andreas Fault Zone, two major Pacific built environment on the ocean. To further clarify tectonic plates. Exploration of tectonic activity this main concept, the utilization of ocean wave and even the possible monitoring of tsunamis power and alternative building environments can and underwater currents could also be a major lead to a reduction in fossil fuel consumption and functional component of the building. eco-degenerative design processes. The main concepts and goals for the design are as follows:
- incorporate a sustainable design methodology - the built form and infrastructure must maintain itself with a water collection and reuse system along with a firm no waste policy - the built form will revitalize and enhance the natural ecosystem - an ocean wave converter will be used to power the building and site 3.02 summation and proposed outcome 40
proposition Outcomes Designed for open waters, the marine this research facility scientists will be removed from research facility will be detached from the mainland friends, family, and solid ground for some length of and is intended to be a place of destination for time. Therefore, this facility must be envisioned as research-based investigation of marine ecology. As an inclusive environment and not simply a “building a result of this thesis project, it will become evident on the ocean.” Relating aspects of wind, water, that a building relying on ocean energy can be and sun to the built form will be integral to the designed for the open seas if specific technologies design process because these physical conditions are applied during the design process. More create most of the surrounding context. One of importantly, the design methodologies will be the most difficult tasks will be to create a series of used to strategically delineate the architectural spaces that users will enjoy while in this transient intervention. This thesis project also aims to prove environment. Providing views to the ocean from a completely self-sustaining building can impart dining facilities, sleeping quarters, and communal minimal environmental consequences and can spaces will also greatly enhance the scheme. actually enhance the quality of life. A well- Allowing researchers and other members designed building is also capable of restoring of the scientific community to gain valuable field natural ecological processes which have been experience should be a key attraction of the compromised by past human intervention. marine research facility. In order to accomplish Contributions to the methodological design this goal, a specific site must be established that of floating structures and ocean wave energy detaches itself from the mainland and places along with their applicability to future architectural users directly into the marine environment. Being inquiries will be investigated within this thesis project. located out to sea, researchers will be able to be Specifically, the outcome of this project should immersed in their work for a significant period of evolve into a precedent of ocean architecture time, rather than just retrieving data and working in and sustainable design. The project also aims to a lab devoid of ecological inspiration. Maintaining develop a prototype plan to harvest ocean wave some visual distance to a natural landform will energy for direct use within the building. To further also be crucial to ensure that users feel safe investigate this problem and the possible solutions, amongst the vast open sea. The goal is to create a written discourse and design project explored in an environment that does not feel unnatural or drawings, models, precedent examination, and superficial, but generates a sense of community technological studies will be utilized. and science-based learning. While designing this marine research Creating an environment that exudes facility, there must be adequate attention paid to a unique spatial character by way of a the physiological, psychological, and architectural compelling site, unrestricted built form, sustainable context of the site. Within the context a designer technologies, and an educational backing is must consider how the rocking of the ocean will the all-encompassing goal of this thesis project. impact the building users while also weighing the Not only can a project of this scope incorporate summation and proposed outcome
psychological effects of isolation. While working in progressive technologies for energy production, 41
outcomes but it can also use these technologies to educate the users. In addition to the research being conducted, users should become increasingly aware of the sustainable and ecological operations at work; and comprehend the enormous impact an environmentally friendly design has on their lives. As a result of this thesis project it will become evident that new technologies, to harness the power of ocean waves, are environmentally acceptable and efficient means to power buildings and communities. With the creation of a marine research facility in the Pacific Ocean these new technologies can be adapted and advanced for other forms of off-shore architecture. Utilizing a self-sustaining infrastructure, this project will be able to enhance and revitalize an aquatic ecosystem which does not rely on conventional means of construction, transportation, and energy sources. Striving to disassemble the “tree-hugging” perception of sustainability, this thesis project aims to prove that sustainable practices and alternative energy sources are not just alternatives; rather a set of guidelines for good design of the future. summation and proposed outcome 42
outcomes architectural and theoretical precedents to guide to precedents theoretical and architectural “best practices” model. In an attempt to uncover or guide straightforward a not but parts, “usable” Therefore, with projects uncovered has research precedent facilities. land-based by operated vessels research are these although existence, in laboratories floating however are There projects. these to importance significant of been not have architecture locations, floating and remote design sustainable in but built been have facilities research several example For exactly. typology or site, program, the match none but thesis, this few for proposed being a project the of with characteristics buildings several been have there history Throughout typology. building unexplored laig rhtcue s oeht f an of somewhat is architecture Floating section4_0: designingforthetransient: floating architectureand ocean architecture:primitivebeginnings eeal, hs bas r moe tgte to together society. moored are the boats these of Generally, functions communal major all hold which rafts and boats, long-tail contain houseboats, communities floating these attraction, tourist a now Although water. the on exclusively exist which communities River floating many and are there Lake Sap Tonle For the along example, Vietnam. and Cambodia in communities toprimitive betraced can architecture floating similar typology. a with facilities research other as well as sustainable exemplify strategies will also be of importance to the that project, works built investigated. Various been have groups use and sizes, shapes, of various buildings floating project, the projects ofthesea h ro o fnaetl da of idea fundamental or root The
43 “mainstreet” in floating cambodian village 4.01 floating canadian community 4.02 create ‘city streets’ and gathering spaces. Within resembles a typical quaint community of western this community there are dwelling boats, police North America and not a vacation destination. boats, market boats, and fishing boats. Although Structural moorings for the buildings include stilts this thesis project aims to create something of and piers that rise out of the water, or long steel greater prominence than “makeshift streets and cables that restrain the buildings from drifting away communities,” the intrinsic aspects of this culture after a high tide. Connections of built form to water are quite provoking. Moreover, the manner by and façade treatments in the Windsong design which the community has formed; assemblage is a place of disappointment. Contemporary and transformation over time according to materials have not been executed to their fullest function, is the quintessential idea behind the potential and careful attention has not been paid design and programmatic development of this to the manner in which built form meets the water. thesis project. Cambodian floating villages, like Architecturally speaking, vernacular northwest many of the other precedents explored within this designs of cedar and standing seam metal seem thesis, contain various characteristics which can to have been plucked from their foundations influence the design process in a part-to-whole and laid upon a raft or pontoon boat. Although relationship. some features of the design may not be helpful, A floating community somewhat similar the underlying meanings, theoretical basis, and to Tonle Sap, despite being located in Canada, contextual framework of Windsong are very is Alert Bay near Vancouver Island in British inspirational. Columbia. Alert Bay is a tourist destination for An analogous floating community can also whale watching and fishing excursions, but also be found in Sausalito, California. When compared contains private residences and other floating to Windsong, the community design ideas are very buildings. For example, the Windsong Sea Village much the same even though the architectural and Resort located in Alert Bay provides moorage, and building methods are slightly different. A lack
showers, two float house rentals, an art gallery of architectural design is the best way to describe architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating with local art and crafts, and a bakery. The resort the Sausalito community; where many homes 44
s4_1: ocean architecture: primitive beginings sausalito, caresidentialharbor manner. same the in limited implemented be can waste and ventilation, orientation, building of principles same the scale, smaller a on executed While communities. these in used also are sources energy Alternative facility. research floating a for process design the to important very is evolved have that parts of relationship the Understanding have needs. communities their suit to environment these built the molded of users time, Over also be taken from these unplanned communities. can functions of arrangements Schematic used. while normal docks and shore moorings can also be be used to anchor the buildings in some situations, are homes can systems cable and Buoys applicable. directly floating the for strategies mooring useable qualities for this thesis project. For example, have beenbuiltfromoldboatsordocks. oh idog n Suaio exhibit Sausalito and Windsong Both 4.03 t pnonlk bs t poie cuat any occupants provide to base pontoon-like its of top on rotate to able removed is villa Each and collectively. supplied be can sanitation water, and telecommunications, together electricity, located that are so villas Many collection. floating or dock for amenities such as parking self-supporting and garbage pier a are via land to connected are which structures watervillas The of Watervillas, or floating homes in the Netherlands. years. Recently, Hertzberger has designed a series several for architecture floating on working been the twocommunities. in seen be also can systems management water Technologies such as photovoltaic cells and waste watervilla -hertzberger of Floatation shading. and daylighting, gain, solar appropriate for sun the of path the to adapt to view. Changing the orientation allows the building uc dsge Hra Hrzegr has Hertzberger Herman designer Dutch s4_1: oceanarchitecture: primitivebeginings 4.04
45 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea the villa is provided by six buoyant steel pipes two meters in diameter. Not only do the pipes provide a pontoon-like stable base for the structure above, they are also accessible for storage. Consisting of three floors which can be designed to fit the homeowner's lifestyle and needs, third floor the watervilla is highly adaptable to a variety of living conditions. Traditionally, the villa is designed with the bedroom functions on the first floor and the main living spaces are located on the second and third floors. By placing the most frequently used spaces on the upper floors the occupants will be able to enjoy grand views and sunlight all the time while reserving the less enjoyable and darker areas of the building for sleeping. second floor Designing a highly flexible space is very important when the system must meet the needs of a variety of people. Also, by addressing various factors of daily life in a sustainable manner, Hertzberger is able to maximize the potential of each space. For example, ample daylighting and views are provided for each space. Generous terraces accompany every floor and provide the essential physical connection to the outdoors. One other floating house project from the Netherlands is fundamentally rooted in first floor 4.05 sustainability although it is an un-built work. The Archimedes Water Dwelling, designed by Drost + Van Veen, is theoretically able to float in any depth of water. Designed with a conservative footprint, this house has a total surface floor area of 200 square meters or 660 square feet. A 'water core' is the central element of the home and all other programatic functions are arranged around this feature. Communal spaces such as a kitchen, living room, and restroom are located on the entry
floor level. Sleeping areas are privately located on architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
watervilla - hertzberger 4.06 the second floor and a large work space is in the 46
s4_1: ocean architecture: primitive beginings aiain oe fo Hmug Germany. Hamburg, Floating Homes GMBH is a company dedicated to from comes habitation on themooringlocation. or piers can be used to access the house depending bridges, Boats, purified. being after bathing serves aesthetically used domestic purposes such as drinking, cleaning, and not Water water feature. indoor interesting an providing building; the of core the through runs roof the on collected Rainwater home. the to power of amounts ample Solar electricity. own panels and a two kW vertical wind its turbine provide generates and the roof from water need the all collects home the a spaciousterraceforsunbathingandrecreation. as serves home the of roof the Finally, lever. lower archimedes waterdwelling-drost+vanveen One final precedent centered on floating on centered precedent final One self-sufficient, completely be to Designed uem i Sahm, wdn drse many addresses Sweden Skarhamn, in Museum, Watercolor Nordic the typology, programmatic this productverycustomizable (Floatinghomes). making available, also are materials skin exterior modular and prefabricated in design. A variety of square feet to 400 square feet, these structures are ship.” nor Available with living house spaces ranging from “neither 800 are which developed been have structure” maritime “unique this of schemes four Presently waters. open or lakes, rivers, in used be can homes floating these land, available of lack the for Designing circles. housing innovative German within popularity in risen has homes during an international design competition, floating conceived Originally water. the on working and providing “award-winning homes” to people living lhuh rwn fo a different a from growing Although s4_1: oceanarchitecture: primitivebeginings 4.07
47 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea of the functional issues for architecture built on water. This museum, designed by Niels Bruun and Henrik Corfitsen, has been tucked into a small marine inlet amongst a rocky coast and the serene views of a quiet sailing community. Using a concrete pad atop pylons the Dutch design team created the illusion of a building hovering just above the water as though it was suspended from the rugged coastline. The museum has been placed on the large wharf and is connected to the surrounding landscape by narrow dock-like appendages. Gallery and studio spaces are another main function of the museum. Situated on the opposite coastline of the inlet, the studio spaces are individual structures that lightly touch the water with visible pylons. One aspect of the museum that can be adapted for the marine research facility is the graceful connection to the water. Although the research facility would be independent of the coast and probably not sit on pylons, the architectural vocabulary can operate in the same manner. Ideas of materiality can also be derived floating homes gmbh 4.08, 4.09, 4.10 from the museum. Simple wood battens cover desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
nordic watercolor museum 4.11, 4.12 48
s4_1: ocean architecture: primitive beginings and marineresearchfacilitiesshallbecompleted. Therefore, buildings significant architecturally of investigation arrangements. formal ingenious or technologies, construction the avant-garde to water, connections innovative explore which essentially not platforms do compelling. floating are on positioned architecturally projects homes these not Furthermore, are they floating communities, of entwined aqueously and structures examples indeed are precedents Museum. Nordic the of design the like much outdoor environment; the to users connect to way excellent an be would water the to out looking windows large with plan open an Finally process. design the during important be will sea cold and water salt with react materials these how Understanding building. the closes roof gable metal crisp a while studios the and building main the of façade the lhuh h aoeetoe mentioned aforementioned the Although s4_1: oceanarchitecture: primitivebeginings
49 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea s4_2: Ocean Architecture: Theoretical Underpinnings In an attempt to uncover precedents city was programmatically identical to a cruise relevant to this thesis project in terms of design ship; although it was not self propelled but did methodology, typological genesis, and contain its own ports and marinas within the center architectural esquisse, several theoretical or un- of the design. An overall size of the city has never built projects were discovered. In order to fully been accurately documented, but Fuller once realize the capacity of this project a thoughtful analysis of these propositions has been completed. This analysis investigates a lesser-known design by Buckminster Fuller, British military installations, and is completed with an Eastern architectural movement. Dissimilar projects have been investigated within this section of the ‘precedent analysis’ due to the overarching approach of this thesis project to consider contrasting points of the problem statement. The first precedent for investigation is 4.13 Triton City, a theoretical design by Buckminster Fuller. The project was conceived in the early 1960’s, but never built for Tokyo Bay, Japan. Later redeveloped for the Chesapeake Bay, Triton City was a complete floating city. Acting as an oversized boat, the project was arranged in a tiered or stacked fashion much like a pyramid. Fuller’s “tetrahedronal” design, as he called it, was planned with all mechanical functions in the hull, shopping and communal functions in the middle of the structure, and athletic clubs and tennis courts on the top decks (Banham). Triton City triton city and mainland spatial relationship 4.14 was also designed with the inhabitant in mind. For example, 300,000 families could live within Fuller’s floating city; although each dwelling unit was only 650 square feet in size (www.fabiofeminofantasci ence.org). When looking back on Fuller’s design it seems as though he was just slightly ahead of his time; creating what is now considered a luxury architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
cruise ship. Functionally speaking, Fuller’s floating triton city section 4.15 50
s4_2: ocean architecture: theoretical underpinnings maunsell seafortplanand elevation at principles the but task, daunting a is city entire an Designing the next.” to harbor city's floating protected one from runs one-day safe, in world cruising small yachts also will be able to sail or power time around the due “In commented, Fuller interview an In cities. floating the for vision Fuller’s ience.org). miles long on each side (www.fabiofeminofantasc two be would tetrahedron or city the speculated Embarking on a new era in ocean travel was 4.16 planning process. and design the to relevant very be to seem city such as a marine research facility, ideas from Triton and wants. Even when viewed on a smaller scale, needs, tendencies, humanistic of understanding the is Fuller by explored idea adaptable Another in construction. and engineering, architecture structure, of terms ocean for background a strong provides information technical This building. floating a in addressed be must that structural properties and importance. organizational great the of outlines theory Fuller a is structure or that people can travel from one ocean community work in Triton City are usable precedents. The idea built. Each outpost was constructed approximately there were three Maunsell anti-aircraft installations Altogether guard-post. or searchlight a as serve to others the from away constructed was tower seventh single a and tower, control central the around fashion circular a in arranged were which towers, the of five on mounted were guns aircraft Anti- tree-houses. metal like water the from rose design this platforms steel interconnected seven of Comprised Estuary. the along defense aircraft anti- for used fort. was design the second-generation This support to system structural caisson a utilized which problem the to approach varied a revealed design the of iterations Later stations. military permanent as seabed the into sunk were structures massive the position into towed Once pontoons. or hulls floating to affixed quarters crew forts were originally designed as The gun platforms and Two. War World during lane shipping British important this protect to order in Estuary Thames the in the in constructed were Forts Sea Maunsell 1940’s, Maunsell Guy by Designed installation. military a but design, architectural traditional a s4_2: oceanarchitecture: theoreticalunderpinnings nte poet ot cnieig s not is considering worth project Another
51 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea ten miles from the shoreline and six miles from the forts are also protected from ocean waves and previous fort. The Nore Fort, Shivering Sands Fort, surface disturbances. The plan arrangement of and Red Sands Fort were built in dry-dock locations the structures is also very interesting. Although the and towed into position by 1942. Although the structures were positioned to protect the central structures are now abandoned, they had been control tower, there is a sense of modularity and used by pirate radio operators in the 1960’s and part-to-whole relationship in their underlying 70’s after the Royal Navy decommissioned the organization. Moreover, each structure is towers in the late 1950’s (Wikipedia). connected by a simple cat-walk platform; alluding to the notion that towers could be added or removed without much effort. Also, the inherent modular quality exhibited by the Forts could be greatly enhanced by adding new towers. Additional structures could be placed at various heights and distances in reference to the original structures to create a hierarchical system or even a communal organization of the pieces. Another possible permutation would be to locate a few towers underwater. Although this system may not be conducive to anti-aircraft tactics, there are enormous possibilities if these strategies were applied to an ocean community. For example, various city functions could be located within each tower. Movement and circulation through the city could occur in the vertical supports or the cat-walks which connect each structure. Plug-In City designed by Archigram’s Peter Cook in 1964 exhibits similar qualities to the plausible solutions of the Maunsell Fort projects. For example, Plug-In City was designed to be an organized framework within which dwelling units, maunsell sea fort iterations 4.17, 4.18 cellular structures, or standardized component These structures are particularly interesting to this systems could be inserted. Based on Le Corbusier’s thesis project in terms of their connection to the aphorism that “a house is a machine for living water. Unlike other precedents which float at the in,” Cook envisioned the machine would take water surface, these structures are held above over this architectural project to control housing the ocean. Obviously moving the forts into the systems, the commercial environment, and most air was a military strategy so crew members could importantly various methods of transportation architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
see danger approaching at far distances, but the within the city framework. According to Cook, 52
s4_2: ocean architecture: theoretical underpinnings r qie iia t Musl’ Sa ot. n fact, In Forts. Sea Maunsell’s to similar quite are consonance, andtheoretical composition. formal investigation, sectional parti, circulation, of modes planning, site to relation in considered to be resources significant are there precedents these from different quite is project adaptability. this Although and temporality, connectivity, of are also inspirational when considering their notions Maunsell and Archigram of methodologies design component systems within the design process. The and modularity embrace to plans project thesis advanced industrialcivilization”(97). an in inherent poetry the captures other any than the consumer choice, an architecture which more the services alone, an architecture that dramatizes of architecture an make to manages “Archigram Jencks, to According (ArcSpace). and movement” flow adaptability, and change of future a evoked “instantly City Plug-In projects, Archigram other many Like city. or building the of framework entire the destroying without building a of section a reconstruct and replace to ability the embrace throw-away should architecture a believed Archigram of culture, trend new the City. Recognizing Plug-In truly within thought pieces innovative the reusable was or exchangeable components and modular of idea The (97). years” fifteen every on clipped and relocated be can movement holds which houses and cycle twenty-year a on systems which span, life forty-year a with structure basic a “of contrived project a as City Plug-In recalls architecture, postmodern of writer critical and architect Jencks, Charles 52). (Featherweights terrain” any to services, essential and ways access containing structure, network “the Plug-In City is set up by applying a large scale Oil rigs found in many present-day oceans present-day many in found rigs Oil this conjectures, previous to According n cntuto tcnqe, i rg are rigs Forts. Sea the oil of design the to similar techniques, inherently construction and technologies similar Utilizing inthe (Turner). Sea belocated North to rig oil first the began on Maunsell working Forts, Sea the designing after ecofisk IInorthseaoilrig plug-in city s4_2: oceanarchitecture: theoreticalunderpinnings 4.19, 4.20 4.21
53 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea For example, both structures can be defined by their disconnection of built form and liquid foundation. Rather than creating a harmonious balance with the ocean, these structures resolve the matter by rising above the water in a subtle tension defined by the structural elements of the architecture. Furthermore, these structures exude an aesthetic quality unlike many other forms of architecture. Specifically, the oil rig is blanketed with technological systems, pipes, cranes, hoses, concrete, and metal. The formal exterior quality of 4.22 an oil rig is the expression of functional components Within this thesis project the design which ignores other architectural models of intervention could take on characteristics of composition, symmetry, balance, and ornament. the Pompidou Centre, oil rigs, and Maunsell Sea Although an oil rig is hardly a textbook example Forts. For example, programmatic aspects of of modern architecture, rather an engineering the building could be pulled above the water marvel; there is beauty in the expression of level like a Sea Fort, and the technological function. functions of the building could inform the design An obvious congruent argument can be process like an oil rig. Allowing technology and drawn from the Pompidou Centre by Richard data models drive the design may prove to be Rodgers and Renzo Piano. Opening in 1977, efficient methodologies when considering the the Pompidou Centre was designed as a city multitude of disciplines within this thesis. Moreover, center for the arts, educational activities, and systematically designing the building to respond public assembly. Focusing on the design, the to ocean wave energy conversion practices, functional components of the Center have been technological requirements of marine research, outwardly extenuated to generate the form and and human necessities for comfortable dwelling visual quality of the architecture. For example, should generate a successful end-product. the structural steel frame and vertical circulation A final source of inspiration within this were “relegated to the outside of the building, thesis project can be traced to the Japanese thereby freeing up interior space for museum and Metabolist Movement of the 1960’s. Formed activity areas” (Centre Pompidou). Comparable by Kisho Kurokawa, Kiyonori Kikutake, Noboru to the formerly discussed oil rig, the façade of Kawazoe, and later joined by Fumihiko Maki and the cultural center is wrapped with a semblance Masato Otaka, Metabolism sought architectural of color-coded ducts representing air, fluid, and solutions to the “rapid economic growth and electricity. “Designed for freedom of movement technological progress” Japan was beginning and flow,” the building expresses the functional to realize (Kurokawa-3 11). Within the group’s aspects in order to generate a formal language first publication entitled, Metabolism 1960 –A architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
and hierarchy (Centre Pompidou). Proposal for a New Urbanism, it was declared that 54
s4_2: ocean architecture: theoretical underpinnings uoaa n 92 s ae o te fundamental the on based is 1972 in Kurokawa and datatransmission(Kurowaka-2 54,56). growth three-dimensional for potential the to due projects their of many for structure helix a explore to Metabolists other and Kurokawa allowed cycle metabolic the Considering 27,31). (Kurokawa-2 technology” and humanity between relationship new a of “creation the advocating by proposals” metabolic development of our society through our active the encourage to “trying were they stated group the Furthermore, within technology. and design vitality human represented metabolism helix citystructure h Nkgn asl Twr eind by designed Tower Capsule Nakagin The 4.23 4.24 ah esrn egt et ie y hren feet thirteen by wide feet eight measuring each capsules, or cells of composed is Tower Nakagin the Tokyo, of district restaurant the in Constructed 31). (Kurokawa-2 impersonal” and “anonymous is their space in an effort to avoid architecture which personalize to occupant the allow would building a of components reconstruct and disassemble to ability the with along technology prefabrication believed Kurokawa being. human the architectural to space the connect to parts,” striving also of while changeability and replaceability of principle the “emphasizes project the example, For expansion. helical and Metabolism of ideas nakagin capsuletower s4_2: oceanarchitecture: theoreticalunderpinnings 4.25
55 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea nakagin capsule tower 4.26, 4.27 floating factory 4.28 long and eight feet high, which serve as temporary for the capsule network while also containing housing for businessmen visiting Tokyo. Outfitted piping, ductwork, and elevators. with typical apartment amenities, the capsules Two other Metabolist designs relating to this could be assembled in a factory and installed project are Marine City by Kiyonori Kikutake and on site in very little time. Kurokawa also thought Floating Factory by Kurokawa. The former was several capsules could be joined together to an exercise to design a city and its component form one large dwelling unit if each capsule was systems from multiple vantage points. Kikutake given a specific function: kitchen, bedroom, developed his new city through the three stages and bathroom. Two central concrete and steel- of ‘moveable equipment,’ ‘moveable house,’ reinforced towers provided the structural system and ‘moveable city’ (Kurokawa-2 42). For desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
marine city 4.29 4.30 56
s4_2: ocean architecture: theoretical underpinnings shizuoka pressandbroadcasting building units housing The units. housing to plugged-in that were systems and technologies specific existed as City Marine designed, be should city a ence.org). (www.fabiofeminofantasci system a prefabricated as unit dwelling entire the designed Kikutake Furthermore, outdated. or damaged became considered replaceable and exchangeable if they were tubes dwelling the Archigram, of reminiscent also while ideology, Again Metabolist the to according space. occupiable of diameter in feet seventy-five or circumference in feet 236 was unit repetitive fashion. No matter the overall size, each and module a in designed were units dwelling the projects, Metabolist other many Like people. eight ranging fromtwoto to providehousingforfamilies sizes variety a in available were towers the within units Dwelling inhabitants. 5000 accommodate to designed was city the of tower each example, Envisioned as a theoretical model for how 4.31 the inner-most zone was reserved for recreational for reserved was zone inner-most the while community island man-made the for food second zone of the city would be used to cultivate the Finally, concept. theoretical a as remained plan the rather developed; was device wave or method extraction real no energy, ocean utilize to design the for planned Kikutake though Even energy. ocean and solar of power the collect to located be would an devices be where zone to industrial was city the of ring outer The zones. distinct three as created be to was city the system complete a As city. marine expansive an create to together bejoined could blocks city floating the Finally, blocks. city to plugged-in then and buildings high-rise to plugged-in be then could shizuoka planandelevation would designs the of However, some admits Kurokawa Utopians. as themselves regarded never Metabolists the utopianistic, somewhat is idea Kikutake’s Although minofantascience.org). swimming pools and dwelling space (www.fabiofe s4_2: oceanarchitecture: theoreticalunderpinnings 4.32
57 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea city in the air 4.33 not have been implemented easily, nor were 4.34 they always “backed up by detailed technical schemes” (Kurokawa-2 43). Kurokawa’s Floating Tokyo Bay for new housing while also interweaving Factory mentioned earlier was also a theoretical technological advancement throughout the design which believed, “there will be a demand autonomously changing city. Striving to “reconcile in society for floating factories to go with floating the incredible density of Tokyo's urban fabric with cities” (Kurokawa-2 96). With this design the the rapid expansion and reformulation of modern Metabolists were forecasting future growth of social structures, Tange's plan proposed multilevel Japan and the subsequent dependence on the urban construction layered over the existing city shoreline and surrounding ocean waters. and its waterways” (McQuaid 120). Kenzo Tange, a Japanese architect for Finally, Arata Isozaki who also worked whom many of the Metabolists studied under under Kenzo Tange in the mid 1950’s, but was and worked for in the 1950’s and 60’s, designed never formally part of the Metabolist movement, the Shizuoka Press & Broadcasting Building in designed a 1960 project called City in the Air. 1967. This project is comparable to the Nakagin Much like Tange’s Shizuoka Building, City in the Capsule Tower because the design constitutes a Air was designed as a series of circular columns main structural element with cantilevered office rising into the air with several horizontal ‘branches’ units. Just as the dwelling capsules were bolted containing housing and office space. Isozaki was to the concrete core of the Capsule Tower, the seeking a new methodology for overcrowded Shizuoka Building appears to be constructed Japanese cities by transferring many of the city’s of prefabricated components which could be functions into the limitless sky. The space between clipped on and removed. The Shizuoka Building, each column was also filled with highways, parking like much of Tange’s work “marked a revived structures, and other modes of transportation awareness of Japanese architectural traditions while “the ground plane is reconstituted as tiers of expressed through a contemporary interpretation gardens above and within the blocks” (Riley 49). of architectural form” (Architecture.sk). Tange There are obvious parallels to Peter architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
also created a plan for Tokyo that would utilize Cook’s Plug-In City and the Archigram design 58
s4_2: ocean architecture: theoretical underpinnings technologies or information systems to guide the guide to systems information or technologies thesis this construction avant-garde of undertake also intervention could design The Tower. Capsule Nakagin the like much project, thesis this may become a fundamental design approach to environment aqueous undulating and architecture. the transient to of respond that form systems modular transitional Creating new a for ocean waters opens the possibility, and necessity, in located be will project this Realizing project. thesis this to important theoretical also are which ideologies and rational examine precedents these of All groups. architectural both by works many to exploring essential is also technologies upgradeable while city framework building inner-connective and an creating example, For projects. Metabolist many in methodology aue te yboi o mn n technology” and man of symbiosis the and nature; architecture of symbiosis the symbiosis: of philosophy “the promote to aims project thesis this Kurokawa, Kisho from phrase a borrow To 1). (Kurokawa- environment” its and architecture of relationship time and spirit “the recognizing and also while spaces, cultures, heterogeneous of terms in symbiosis, and synchronicity of principles Metabolist fundamental the with correlate should of this precedent research, the design intervention City as well as other Metabolist projects. Marine As a result Kikutake’s of interpretation and analysis architecture the evolves into, this thesis will benefit greatly from the direction the of architecture. Irregardless the of development and design (Kurokawa-3 15). s4_2: oceanarchitecture: theoreticalunderpinnings 4.35
59 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea s4_3: Ocean Architecture: Marine Research Facilities Presently there are many marine research African coast. At this time, benthic ecology, facilities in existence on several continents, all microbial oceanography, molecular ecology, of which operate and conduct research very and seismology are all areas of exploration for the differently. Although explorations into this vast institute. Studies have also been conducted in the topic have yet to uncover a completely offshore fields of ocean thrust geochemistry and submarine facility, many of the current facilities make use volcanism by monitoring underwater chemical of floating harbors or jetties, as well as conduct sensors and geophysical data collecting devices field research with ocean vessels. Facilities such (MBARI). as the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Although MBARI occupies onshore the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and facilities for laboratory experiments and data the Scripps Institution of Oceanography provide processing, much of the work is conducted excellent background information not only for directly on the water with three research vessels programmatic distribution, but also in the discovery and two submersibles. Research is also obtained of the diverse field of oceanographic research. by surface buoys located several miles offshore. Analysis of these public and private institutions will These buoys collect long-term observations at also aid in the design methodologies, scientific the sea surface and the upper water column. underpinnings, and technological insights Presently a well-developed technology, buoys are developed within this thesis project. routinely deployed and monitored via line-of-sight One leading research facility is the radio or over-the-horizon satellite communication Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, and are only occupied by scientists for scheduled founded in 1987 by David Packard. With nearly maintenance (MBARI). two decades of scientific study, the Monterey Recently MBARI has developed the first Bay Aquarium Research Institute, or MBARI, has deep-sea observatory on the ocean floor. A “achieved and maintained a position as a world surface buoy is used to transmit data back to center for advanced research and education onshore facilities as well as supply power to all the in ocean science and technology” (MBARI). sub-sea instruments by way of solar panels and MBARI emphasizes the peer relationship between a small-scale wind turbine. Mooring lines used engineers and scientists as a basic principle of its to anchor the buoy to the sea floor also contain operation through the development of superior fiber-optic strands, which run along the sea floor instruments, systems, and methods for scientific to various instruments and deep-sea devices. research in the deep waters of the ocean. The Although unmanned, the instruments “collect institute utilizes the submarine Monterey Canyon information on oceanographic conditions such and the surrounding waters of Monterey Bay to as water temperature, water clarity, and currents” study a variety of marine systems in this natural (MBARI). Research and development has lasted laboratory. Researchers have also conducted well over five years, yet the determination appears architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
field research in Antarctica, Hawaii, and the South to be full of reward. Currently, data is being 60
s4_3: ocean architecture: marine research facilities woods hole MBARI 4.38, 4.39 4.36, 4.37 ca rsac, niern, n education higher and “research to Dedicated organization. and engineering, research, non-profit ocean private, largest world’s the has become Hole Woods Massachusetts, Cod Cape on Located Institution. Oceanographic Hole Woods research facility. marine enhance offshore an for success greatly of possibilities the will Monterey in developed already technology the upon thesis Building this project. of component integral will an function become facilities other and MBARI how of understanding thorough A (MBARI). sea deep the of mysteries great the solve to effort an in water deep two-mile in offshore miles sixty-two obtained h Rnhr Catl eerh etr ae up make Center Research Coastal Rinehart the and Center, Policy Marine the Institute, Change Climate and Ocean the Institute, Institute, Life Ocean Exploration the Ocean Deep the as such total the of subject matter examined at Woods Hole. Divisions portion small a only are chemistry physics, biology, geology, geophysics, and marine ocean of aspects example, For accomplished. being learning and research the in diversification subject. Hole appears more than capable of exploring any sixty, and finally 290 support staff members, Woods of personnel marine a 130, of staff student a 155, of staff technical a With (WHOI). whole” a as Earth with interact they how and function oceans the how governing characteristics and processes the of understanding fundamental effectively a and communicate develop to is mission the “primary where Hole; Woods are at 135scientists employees full-time Over buildings. fifty-eight of science,” ocean composed is and acres 219 occupies Hole Woods of frontiers the at education s4_3: oceanarchitecture: marineresearch facilities Another research facility worth noting is the ihn od Hl tee s great is there Hole Woods Within
61 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea the remainder of the Woods Hole research (WHOI). Each department of Woods Hole is unique in its studies, but all contain similar facilities. Analyzing how and why certain facilities are utilized should prove to be most helpful when later designing a program for this thesis project. One of the departments within WHOI is the Deep Ocean Exploration Institute which conducts a variety of marine operations using deep-water submersibles and other underwater monitoring equipment. Marine Seismology is the main area 4.40 of discovery for the Deep Ocean Exploration Institute. Submarine seismology is monitored inside research vessels create this branch of WHOI. A lab an Ocean Bottom Seismometer Lab and actual concentrating on geophysical fluid dynamics is the samples from the seabed and water column are heart of the organization, while other exploration warehouse in the Seafloor Samples Lab. Within occurs in labs dealing with ‘biological ocean this thesis project a similar style lab or series of labs effects’ and ‘flume support instrumentation.’ In might be utilized making the Seafloor Samples Lab marine geographical terms, a flume is a narrow a great precedent. Over 14,000 archived marine underwater gorge or a simulated water channel. geological samples are located within the 4,700 Creating artificial environments allow scientists to square foot facility. Stratified sediment cores, test theories and devices before placing them into rock dredges, and surface water samples are just the ocean or on the seafloor. The Rinehart Coastal a few of the artifact typologies that make up this Research Center actually has three flumes on site lab. 650 square feet of refrigerated space is also for a variety of experiments. The larger flume is available in the lab for various experiments and seventeen meters long and exhibits a unidirectional storage. Supporting technologies include core- steady-flow water system. The other research tank splitting systems, rock preparatory equipment, a is a small race-track flume measuring 7.6 meters geotek core logger, and a variety of microscopes. in length. The third flume is actually a flume and Diamond saws and micro blade devices are used wave tank hybrid system used for simulating for sample cutting inside the lab while portable underwater ocean conditions. Stretching 16 saws are used for underwater material collection. meters in length, this tank is also very large and A facility of similar composition could be essential requires ample floor space for the tank itself and for in this thesis project for the archiving of materials researcher circulation. Other equipment in the lab gathered in the waters near the floating research consists of running seawater tanks and a twenty station (WHOI). ton overhead crane used for servicing ocean Another laboratory inside of Woods vessels and the systems mentioned earlier. While
Hole worth looking into is the Rinehart Coastal some aspects of the Rinehart Coastal Research architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
Research Center. Three specialized labs and four Center must be located indoors, for research and 62
s4_3: ocean architecture: marine research facilities r dprmns f h Srps nttto of Institution Scripps Oceanography: the of departments are following The the whole. a as atmosphere study and Earth departments others and UC Diego, of San processes learning the in grounded are institution the of areas of other while some divisions these within marine seen be of can research applications science Direct departments. different eight in science marine explores Scripps to physiology and geophysics andatmosphericsciences”(SIO). biology from disciplines of range wide a covering studies oceanographic for facilities and laboratories sophisticated most nation's the of “some in able scientists leading been join to have students SIO time, that Since 1912. in Diego San California of University Scripps the of the laboratory, Institution of Oceanography became an independent extension an research as 1903, biological in Founded world,” the (SIO). in study oceanographic in service leader this to according public and training, graduate research, science marine for centers important most and largest, “oldest, the of one is experimental of equipment (WHOI). fabrication the for used shop machine on-site an as well as operations, daily for used are library small a and room, conference a offices, Staff facility. research the support also spaces administrative Some Center. Research Coastal Rinehart the like facility a designing when occur to tasks of variety a allow to programmed be must spaces transformed facilities. easily servicing and Flexible and crane the like outside, located are components other testing, simulated The OceansandGlobal Change Earthquakes andGeology people, 1,300 over well staff a Employing Oceanography of Institution Scripps The Scripps research vessels and the FLIP platform. An platform. FLIP the and vessels research Scripps five the accommodating of capable quay meter eighty-five and pier finger meter 110 a supports but land, of acres six The occupies only facility main California. Loma, Point on Facility Marine the Nimitz at and located are laboratory offices central administrative the globe, scattered the buoys across retrieving data has currently scripps be done on site. Also, equipment of any capacity can work modification and repair, maintenance, ship facility, the of accommodations and size the to Due institution. the of rest the amass spaces support technical a marine shipboard and station, offices, radio administrative space, areas, shop staging housing buildings other of array s4_3: oceanarchitecture: marineresearch facilities h Brh qaimlhuh Scripps AquariumAlthough Birch The Scripps GraduateDepartment Marine BiodiversityandConservation Marine BiotechnologyandBiomedicine Coastal Resources Technology andSupportoftheOcean 4.41
63 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea and configuration can be loaded, unloaded, or out to sea. Water is stored in an 1,500 gallon tank prepared for scientific missions of any scope (SIO). and is replenished each day by a 30 gallon-per- A ‘marine facility shop,’ as it is called hour reverse osmosis water maker (Marine Physical by Scripps, is also located within the complex. Laboratory). Measuring over 260 feet long and twenty feet Generally speaking, normal ships are very wide, the shop can be used for ship repairs, unstable in rough seas, making research extremely equipment maintenance, and instrument storage. difficult, yet FLIP is very stable in almost all weather Shop space for carpentry, welding, electrical and mechanical systems design, and metal machining are all included in this 18,000 square foot building. A shop superintendent office, staff offices, storage rooms, and lounge space are all part of the marine facility shop, as well as shower and locker room space for the staff (SIO). One last component of the Nimitz Marine Facility is the expansive dock and quay mentioned earlier. Acting as a vital connection between the onshore facilities and the deep sea of specimens, the dock can house ships up 300 feet in length while also providing the necessary onshore accommodations for returning research crews. Also docked at the Nimitz facility, when not conducting research at sea, is the FLIP platform. FLIP is an aptly given acronym for the FLoating Instrument Platform, which travels to far distances of the ocean for deep-sea submersion and research. 4.42, 4.43 Specifically, FLIP is a 355 foot long spar buoy, or elongated vertical buoy, which is towed to the research location and then undergoes changes in ballast along the length of the platform to “flip” it into the vertical location. Once in the vertical research position, FLIP dangles 300 feet below the surface water level allowing researchers to get an exceptional view of the ocean. An eleven person team occupies the platform alongside a crew of five other people while conducting research and maintaining the vessel. Enough food, supplies, and architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
power are carried aboard for a thirty days mission flip 4.44 64
s4_3: ocean architecture: marine research facilities sea orbiter field temporary the become can depth any of water used, is system mooring point tasks. three a When of bevy a for suitable it making platform, the to added being always are technologies new are typically carried out by the FLIP team, although of areas the geophysics, meteorology, physical oceanography in Research conditions. sea and 4.45 he dee gnrtr; rdcn a oa o 340 of total a producing generators; by diesel three provided are needs scientific and crew for the power Electrical position. research the into spun when axis vertical the about FLIP rotate to a used propeller is orientation operated FLIP hydraulically on motor only each The to location. hulled research be must therefore propulsion and any power have not does FLIP with, begin To shortcomings. few a have does FLIP research, Physical Laboratory). (Marine Islands Hawaiian the near meters 5,500 to meters 4,200 from ranging depths in moored this consistently been has FLIP missions past On vessel. of usefulness the extending FLIP, for station aie eerh esl. lhuh urnl in currently Although vessels. and research architecture marine his permeate methodology Rougerie has always allowed a Jules Verne design structures, floating and near-shore, underwater, many of Designer Rougerie. Jacques Architect thesis project is the Sea Orbiter designed by French floating researchfacilitywouldoperate. design a how for model a provide as serve also will but direction, only not will FLIP by procedures employed and technologies various the from to what this thesis project could become. Learning precedent the closest platform research floating (Marine Physical Laboratory). vessels other on possible be not would and kind a of one is FLIP with out carried research option, only the are quarters cramped Although the confines of the vessels totaling 500 square feet. the limited workspace. Two laboratories are within is FLIP of drawback other One power. of source friendly environmentally most the not is obviously power diesel solution, easy an Although kW. s4_3: oceanarchitecture: marineresearch facilities Although very accommodating of scientific One other ocean vessel significant to this to significant vessel ocean other One The unique characteristics of FLIP make this
65 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea the research and design phase; the Sea Orbiter data. Within the pressurized deck of the Sea is expected to “allow researchers, scientists, Orbiter are living quarters for aquanauts living and educators an unprecedented opportunity exclusively below water. While drifting through the to live and work for long durations in a deep Gulf Stream or among the Hawaiian Islands, the ocean drifting vessel” (Operations Manual). aquanauts will complete underwater SCUBA dives Functioning somewhat like a ship, the Sea Orbiter to study various sub-sea environments (Operations was designed to drift with ocean currents to Manual). A secondary goal of the Sea Orbiter alleviate dependence on petroleum-based fuels. project is to determine the biomedical effect In order to accomplish the primary goal of the humans experience while living in an extremely Orbiter project, two-thirds of the vessel is located pressurized environment for an extended period underwater allowing “aquanauts to witness and of time. NASA is also interested in collaborative document the undersea environment” while the research with the Sea Orbiter group. As of now above-water portion of the Orbiter will enable there are tentative plans for NASA astronauts to researchers to “study a myriad of ocean weather train in the weightless underwater environment phenomena” (Operations Manual). Due to the while also living on the Sea Orbiter. It should also be extreme environments within which this 1000 ton noted that research conducted upon the Orbiter is vessel will drift, the outer skin will be crafted from meant to serve as a spring-board for traveling and high-strength aluminum and polycarbonate inhabiting Mars in the future (SINTEF). windows. Comprised of nine levels, five below In terms of this thesis project, the Sea water and four above, the Sea Orbiter contains Orbiter is quite motivational. For example, observation decks, a technical deck, bunk decks, compared to all other precedents investigated a living quarter deck, and a pressurized deck. up to this point, the Sea Orbiter shares many parallel characteristics with this thesis and should be the most applicable to the project. Although the marine research facility considered within this project will not be maneuverable in the same sense as the Orbiter, components of the facility could however be manipulated by ocean currents and waves. Also, the building should respond to weather and site conditions to efficiently utilize ocean wave power. Positioning research spaces section and plan diagram 4.46 or even living quarters below water could also A crew of sixteen will pilot, live, and conduct be a strong design strategy. When considering research onboard the Sea Orbiter at one time. the Sea Orbiter, several occupiable spaces have Capable of many tasks, the Orbiter will conduct a been located underwater so to increase the variety of missions ranging from two weeks to three stability of the vessel. For example, the pressurized months in length, although the vessel may be deck of the Orbiter, where aquanauts will live architecture and projects of the sea desiging for the transient: floating
out to sea for several years to collect continuous and work in complete saturation, is located thirty- 66
s4_3: ocean architecture: marine research facilities elevation andplan further stabilize the to Orbiter. Beneath ballast the pressurized ample provides also deck pressurized seas. Much like the centerboard on a sailboat, the high or winds strong in overturning possible resist can deck the of area surface large the because orientation, vertical a takes which vessel the of remainder the to compared horizontally, laid-out been has deck The surface. the below feet two for thisthesisproject. model design exemplary an this make Orbiter Sea the of ethos and methodology design the as well as properties analytical and structural The waves. ocean or winds by vessel the of sections vertical the on imposed forces lateral any counter-act to lift upward generate to used keel fin long is deck s4_3: oceanarchitecture: marineresearch facilities 4.47
67 desiging for the transient: floating architecture and projects of the sea Additionally, large expanses of sea are more sus more are sea of expanses large Additionally, Alaska. of areas Southern the to coast California Northern the from extend locations site possible America, North Western to site possible the trating Byconcen extraction. for sufficient power with waves generate latitude south and north degrees sixty and forty between areas thumb, of rule a As resources. power wave ocean by initiated were the micro. ginning with the macro scale and working down to be process, selection the during analyzed factors be randomly selected, there were actually several to seem may site the While project. this of site the as chosen been has California Northern of region Preliminary stages of the selection process selection the of stages Preliminary As mentioned earlier, the Cape Mendocino - - - cating a building off southern California or Mexico or California southern off building a cating Lo occupants. building of comfort thermal the to regard in investigated be should coast American North western the of conditions climatic the sion, conver energy wave affect not do temperatures surface Although temperature. surface air mean and temperature surface sea mean regional is sion (Boyle,307). conver energy wave efficient for advantageous be will fetch long a of end the at converter wave a Locating year. each shoreline a to energy of grow tremendously and can transfer vast amounts to able is power wave the sea, open of fetches these Along distance. long a such over water the on acting winds to due waves large to ceptible Another factor in the site selection process selection site the in factor Another section5_0: site site selection - - -
68 would be good for thermal comfort, yet poor for wave conversion (Univ. of Arizona). In an effort to stay within the forty to sixty degree zone, a site off the northern California coast will be acceptable for both wave energy conversion and thermal comfort, provided the building is near the shore- line where water is substantially warmer than cool off-shore seas (The California Institute of Technol- ogy). Traveling further south, to San Diego or even Monterey, in order to find a site with warmer tem- peratures would compromise ocean wave energy conversion. Therefore, locating a site inside the 40 to 60 degrees latitude 5.01 southern-most areas acceptable wave conversion waters is essential. Positioning a building near the Northern California coast would situate the project within climate zone six, as described by Norbert Lechner, author of Heating, Cooling, Lighting: Design Meth- ods for Architects. Climate zone six can be char- acterized by a very mild climate where winters are cool and rain is common. Summers are usually dry and sunny in climate zone six; therefore most of the twenty inches of annual precipitation occurs in the winter months. When describing this climate zone sea surface tempurature 5.02 Lechner states, “the skies are frequently overcast, [yet] solar heating is still possible because of the small hearing load created by the mild climate” (92, 2001). Also it should be noted that high rela- tive humidity levels do not overlap with high sum- mer temperatures making this climate zone quite comfortable. Due to variations in both elevation and distance from the coast, this region contains many different microclimates (Lechner 92, 2001). Design priorities for this climate zone are: 1. Keep the heat in and the cold tem- air surface tempurature 5.03 peratures out during the winter.
2. Let the winter sun in; which will be dif- site
fused sun due to overcast skies. 69
site selection parks andpublicgreenspace large andnotablecitiesofwesternnorthamerica regional distributionoftectonicplates 5.04 5.06 5.05 areas ofsignificantsub-seaactivity. pinpoint to assessed be must activity tectonic of cific sitehasbeendeterminedathorough analysis spe a once Consequently, (NGDC). currents ter the structure for storm surges and violent underwa design to taken be should care great areas these near located is building a If device. conversion or building floating a to hazardous quite be could plates shifting by created disturbances surface and Underwater investigated. be should plates tectonic of location the coast American North ern sion and open sea habitation when compared to compared when habitation sea open and sion conver wave for suited best is region Mendocino Cape the activity, tectonic near located though Al accomplished. preliminary be can selection site regional a density, population and tourism, climate, greenspace, power, wave as such forces can alsobebeneficial. capital natural of areas other and greenspace, public sanctuaries, wildlife Parks, National nizing recog building, floating a of development the for important is resources economic with seaboard western the on cities large identifying While lars. dol tax possibly and interest, public commerce, local by support ensure to city large to medium a near suited well be would facility research floating a likely Most infrastructure. port or systems transit of network extensive an with city a or lanes ping storage facility may need to be located near ship offshore an while airports, with cites large or tions attrac tourist other near located be to want may economic resources. For example, a floating resort regional and local are building floating a signing diinl atr t cnie we de when consider to factors Additional west the on building any designing When 3. hog te oprsn f aiu site various of comparison the Through
(Lechner 92,2001) Protect fromcoldwinterwinds. site selection ------
70 site other areas along the Northern California coast- line. Within this region is the medium sized city of Eureka, California. Home to redwood state parks, many marine wildlife sanctuaries, a large port authority, county airport, and naval base, this region should provide the necessary infrastructure to support a marine research facility. Also located in this region is the Humboldt State University, an educational institution based upon the liberal-arts, public service, and the environment. HSU also has a strong curriculum base in Earth and marine sci- ences, making this region even more exciting for regional site selection 5.07 a scientific research facility (Humboldt State- Uni versity). Locating a project in the Pacific Ocean requires a thorough understanding of the sea floor topography. As a general rule, waters near the proposed site are commonly no deeper than 100 meters within a few miles of the shoreline. This invis- ible boundary is also known as the nautical three- mile line, or area controlled by the state of Cali- fornia. All waters westward of the line are under Federal jurisdiction and can exceed 3500 meters in depth within thirty miles of the shoreline (NGDC). cape mendocino 5.08 While locating a floating building in extremely deep water is possible with present-day mooring techniques, the facility would be exceedingly far from shore and normal wave heights could be larger than such a facility could withstand. A shal- low water site of no more than 200 meters would be more feasible in terms of mooring and proximity to shore. Along with the investigation of sub-sea terrain, a complete study of underwater cur- rents and tectonic activity must be conducted cape sub-sea topography 5.09 to ensure safe mooring locations for the floating building. Underwater ocean currents generally site
travel from the northern waters near Alaska and 71
site selection cape siteselection cape distributionoftectonicplates underwater oceancurrents 5.10 5.12 5.11 the Gorda Plate, the Pacific Plate, and the North the and Plate, Pacific the Plate, Gorda the of intersection the to leads trough, Escanaba or ning parallel to the Mendocino Ridge, this channel channel that smashes directly into the Cape. Run sub-sea large a is ocean the within Deep region. this within collide also plates tectonic major Three (Chapman). pressure hydrostatic and loading eral lat of terms in building floating a for system tural struc a designing when important be will currents ocean of understanding an Incorporating coast. California the down move and together join rent Cur the California and Current Pacific North the Mendocino, Cape near waters, deep In Islands. American the North Hawaiian the toward out curving before coastline following southward flow il i i te ca eeg cneso process. conversion energy ocean the in aid will which region the within con advantages and specific straints some are there cape, the along anywhere almost tethered be could building the Although Mendocino. Cape surrounding salt water of gallons be of millions must the amongst site selected approximate an started, oughly standing siteforafloating building. out an as Mendocino Cape for claim establishing connectivity, regional and economics, climate, of aspects various considered has process selection site The facility. research marine floating a for ties opportuni exciting many affords also region the parameters, design and constraints ample vides design solutions(NGDC). all in considered be must which activity, tectonic Obviously, this region is dotted with occurrences of Junction. Triple Mendocino the as converge Zone Fault Andreas San the and Zone, Fracture docino Men Zone, Subduction Cascadia the where area this to refer geographers Marine Plate. American eoe h dsg poes a b thor be can process design the Before Although the Cape Mendocino region pro site selection ------
72 site properties of an ocean wave 5.13
Prior to selecting the project site, the basics of Wave power (P) expressed here as kilo- ocean wave dynamics must be understood. A watts per meter, can be calculated by squaring typical ocean wave is sinusoidal in motion; mean- the wave height and by multiplying that product ing it takes the shape of the mathematical sine by the wave period. The exact expression reads:
2 2 function. Each wave contains a series of crests P= rg H T and troughs or high and low points. The height of a 32p particular wave is expressed as its height (h), or the where r is the density of sea water (1021.98 kg/ difference between the crests and troughs; while cu.m) and g is the acceleration due to gravity the wavelength (l) is the linear distance between (9.81m/s2). Wave power factors have been glob- two successive crests or troughs. When a series of ally mapped to determine the best-suited areas waves move across the ocean surface with a giv- for wave conversion. By plotting these numbers en velocity (y) the time in seconds it takes for two on a world map, the “forty to sixty degree latitude successive crests or troughs to move past a fixed range” is established as the most suitable region point is the period of the wave (T). The frequency for ocean wave energy conversion. Within this (v) of a wave is the number of crest-to-crest or thesis project, the forty to sixty range was consid- trough-to-trough oscillations of the wave per sec- ered an accepted rule of thumb from which the ond. Another way to understand wave frequency preliminary site selection was derived (Boyle, 304). is to consider it the reciprocal of the wave period Ocean wave dynamics and wave power sig- site
(v = 1/T). (Boyle, 304). nificantly change with water depth. For example, 73
site selection Within this equation velocity is shown to be inde be to shown is velocity equation this Within expressed by: is velocity the wavelength, the of quarter a than less is (d) depth water the where areas, shallow In 309). (Boyle, seafloors rocky with waters shallow in kW/m 20 to reduced be can water deep in kW/m 50 of density power a with wave seafloor.a example, For the and particles water the between coupling frictional to due shoreline the on sipate dis or break finally and power, in reductions vast undergo velocity, loose will wave the shal waters low toencounter begins awave As the seafloor. by affected greatly are hand other the on shoreline the approaching Waves topography. seafloor the in changes by unaffected being thus pate before coming into contact with the seafloor, water depth because orbiting water particles dissi of independent actually are waves water deep topographical effectsonoceanwaves
y
= gd - - - - the mean water level equal to one-quarter of the of one-quarter to equal level water mean the below (h) height a at located is wave ocean an (Boyle,304). period canbecalculatedby: wave given any for wavelength water deep the Furthermore, waters. deep in waves shorter than faster travel will waves long that noted be should it result, a As seconds. in period, wave the times half a and one about is second, per meters in ity, veloc the waters deep in that stated be can It riod accordingtotheequation: pe the to proportional is velocity the wavelength, waters, where the depth is greater than half of the deep in Whereas period. wave the of pendent
Finally, ninety-five percent of the energy in energy the of percent ninety-five Finally,
l y
= gT = gT 2 2 p p 2 site selection 5.14 - -
74 site wavelength (l). The wave power-to-depth ratio is eas of Cape Mendocino will greatly enhance the largely based upon the phenomenon of oscillating conversion capabilities and site precision of this particles within the moving water column. These thesis project. particles attenuate with depth and are eventually Physical sub-sea topography not only af- dispelled. Therefore, l/4 is the area of the water fects the manner by which a wave is formed as column with the most potential energy to be well as the amount of power locked within the harnessed by an ocean wave energy conversion wave, but also directs the wave path and the device. As a result, devices occupying this region wave velocity. Temporarily ignoring underwater of the water column will generate more electricity currents, waves will approach a shoreline at right than devices which merely ride on the crests and angles due to the decreasing water column. Also, troughs of ocean waves. Understanding average refraction generally concentrates wave power periods, heights, and wavelengths for specific ar- toward coastal headlands or outcroppings. Not site
possible project sites 5.15 75
site selection B A and heights wave enormous with seas rough ate gener that waves and conversion power efficient generate that waves between balance delicate a is there example, For building. floating a for ties quali desirable than less exhibit they conversion, wave for regions excellent are sites these of few a Although conversion. wave for sites possible best the determine to wavelengths and depth water with contrasted be also can areas These sites. ect proj potential as identified been have headlands underwater several region Mendocino Cape within the Therefore, effects. same the have lands head underwater direction, and dictate motion features wave topographic coastal do only 5.17 5.16 - - - - etoe erir Cp Mnoio s h epi the is Mendocino Cape earlier, mentioned As region. geographic this of exploration further for allow and site the inform do they tervention, in design the on impact direct or immediate an have not do changes these Although years. of millions over site this shaped dramatically have transformations Geologic intervention. intended and process design the on bearing some could have that facts interesting other few a vealed occu pants. ocean-going and building floating a for unsuitable environment ocean an create would latter The winds. strong by caused periods short D C ute ivsiain f h st hs re has site the of investigation Further site selection 5.19 5.18 - - - -
76 site center of three converging seismic plates, known eugeosyncinal rocks have typical origins in deep as the Mendocino Triple Junction. Therefore, this water areas near a continental shelf or trench. region has seen a great deal of transition due to a Steep cliffs on the southwestern face of the Cape subducting seafloor, coastline erosion and littoral and the Escanaba trough, located one mile below deposits, as well as an evolving ecological land- sea level, are indicative of this historical past. Vari- scape both on and off shore. Consequently, over ous alluvial deposits can also be found in the low- millions of years this region has seen vast sea level lying areas of the Cape. After winding many miles variations and this transitional landscape contains through the rocky Mendocino terrain, the Eel and variety of rock formation. For example, late Meso- Van Dozen Rivers merge into a river basin and tidal zoic sedimentary and eugeosynclinal rocks com- plain where gathered mountain sediments can bine to form most of the Cape region. Both for- spill into the Pacific Ocean (USGS). mations are typical of marine environments while Historical and land-based analysis of the site
sea level change 5.20 geologic formations 5.21 77
site selection eastern viewofcapemendocino western viewofcapemendocino and afloatingstructure. conversion wave ocean for desirable quite area this making zone; this within common are waves strong and predictable Furthermore, project. sis the this as such application an for used typically devices mooring with compliant be would terrain this shore, from miles six to three Occurring zone. water median treacherous less the is zones two these between In surface. ocean the beneath mountainous shoreline and the perfidious canyons the between relationship distinct a is there ample, ex For significant. the becomes also section, data geologic in site the at looking When ment. environ transient a as site the of understanding greater a afforded has region Mendocino Cape 5.23 5.22 - - - site selection
78 site Environmental and Unforeseen Hazards Designing on ocean waters quickly raises the region, but none have produced a tsunamis questions of public health, safety, and welfare. wave greater than one and a half feet in height. Tsunamis and hurricanes are the immediate Therefore, even though a tsunamis wave was disasters considered for floating architecture. generated it would have gone unnoticed by local Located on the Pacific Ocean, this thesis project residents and beachgoers (Sokolowski). is primarily concerned with tsunamis and related In terms of this thesis project, tsunamis are disasters like flooding. Before delving into the a real threat capable of creating a dangerous tectonic history of Cape Mendocino, it should be situation at any time. Although a major event is noted that if a wave is produced by any type of unlikely, statistically this project must be designed seismic activity the resulting wave is considered for the one-hundred-year storm. Therefore, during a tsunamis; irregardless of height, strength, or the design process environmental stresses will be wavelength. That being said, minute tsunamis considered. For example, the structural system will occur everyday around the globe which go be designed to withstand strong wind and wave undetected. In 1991 a 6.0 magnitude earthquake lateral forces while also resisting the hydrostatic was recorded in the Cape Mendocino region and pressure of water. In the event of an actual just a year later an earthquake measuring 7.1 was tsunamis or strong weather system an evacuation also recorded (Sokolowski). Although known for plan will also need to be created. Determining the tectonic activity, there has not been a significant proper steps to secure the building and remove earthquake in the region since the early nineties occupants will obviously be a top priority. and a major tsunamis event has not occurred Tsunamis are not the only hazards to a since the 1964 Anchorage, Alaska earthquake. floating building in the Cape Mendocino region. As Recorded as the largest earthquake of the mentioned in an earlier chapter, marine mammals twentieth century in the Pacific Northwest, the utilize the Cape waters for proliferation, migration, Alaskan earthquake measured 8.4 on the Richter and nutrition. Grey whales migrate annually from magnitude scale and sent a tsunamis wave down the Beaufort and Bering Sea near Alaska to warm the North American coast (Oregon). Although a Baja California waters by traveling through Cape three foot wave did reach Cape Mendocino as Mendocino. Generally speaking, grey whale a result of the earthquake, it was quite diminutive migratory paths occur no more than three miles in strength and posed little danger to surrounding from the coastline, leaving seaward waters open communities. Following that catastrophic event for the development of a floating marine research there have been several small earthquakes in facility (WDCS). Establishing a floating structure site
site section 79
environmental and unforeseen hazards disasters. natural various from protect to order in building is given while designing the mooring system for the consideration careful as long as facility; research marine a for desirable very are shore from miles thesis six to three this located waters conclusion, In project. for locations possible these as depths eliminating vast therefore conversion, ocean for wave deep too are purposes shipping for would be located. Cape Mendocino waters used lie vessels facility research marine the than sea to out further these by frequented lanes port shipping sized the moderately California, Eureka, of city the within a operates Although thesis this project. of location the endanger not would lanes shipping major Finally, (Maptech). facility research the to proximity close in be not would therefore and shore from miles thirty located are cables these clarify, further To location. remote their to due threat a pose will cables the unlikely is it facility, research marine the near located if lines mooring in these entangled become could cables Although waters. Mendocino Cape the within located also are cables Sub-sea possible. as power wave of amount greatest the capture to order in advantageous be also will shore from miles several device conversion energy wave and environmental andunforeseenhazards 5.24
80 site researchers around the world. Satellite connectivity other with shared immediately be can facility the within conducted research Therefore, television. satellite closed-circuit be via institutions educational will building and facilities research other this with interconnected and scientists, biologists, marine other marine oceanographers, space for gathering a as act to Designed facility. educational an as also but laboratory, exclusive an as serve building this will only Not collected. be will specimens detritus and numerous organisms marine and conducted be will of experiments variety a facility this Within station. research marine floating a house to selected been have California Mendocino, Cape near waters Ocean As outlined in previous sections, the Pacific the sections, previous in outlined As esl cnutn saad xeiet. n the In experiments. research seaward conducting marine vessels for area launching a contain also will building the Finally, disseminated. be can research marine and energy wave ocean about information new so facility the within occur can to that large conferences and scientific gatherings and cafeteria facility is also included in the program auditorium An time. one at facility the occupy to assumed are staff, support and students, scientists, of comprised employees, time full Twenty time. of period extended an for confines facility the within exclusively sleep and eat, work, will researchers be will facility located in the ocean; although not the far from shore, Because facility. research isolated the on live cannot who friends and family their to researchers ocean link to used be also will section6_0: program program analysis
81 event of inclement weather, the docking area will also be used for evacuation purposes or general transportation to the shore or nearby city. The following program has been broken down into research spaces, educational spaces, and staff spaces. Circulation space has also been accounted for in the total square footage. Following each space is a programmatic description and calculated square footage.
Programmatic Description of Spaces
Research Spaces
Battery Storage 575 sqft Library 960 sqft Electrical power storage to be utilized during Small library containing research materials, periods of calm seas reports, and journals. Also in this space are reading tables and computer workstation Chemical Room 50 sqft Chemical storage with fume hood Locker Rooms 1800 sqft Men’s and Women’s staff locker rooms Computer Lab 580 sqft Open staff work space for report writing and Medical Station 210 sqft general office tasks Emergency medical station
Culture Room 475 sqft Photo Dark Room 240 sqft Analysis of collected organic marine samples Photographic analysis of marine environment
Decompression Chamber 120 sqft Staff restrooms 330 sqft Emergency chamber associated with SCUBA Men’s and Women’s RR diving expeditions Seawater intake and distribution 1000 sqft Dive Locker and Showers 785 sqft Preperation space for SCUBA diving Specimen Repository 1680 sqft Storage and cataloging of marine specimens Docks 3000 sqft Docking space for ocean research vessels Storage 500 sqft General facility storage space Dry laboratory 800 sqft Microscopes, centrifuge, autoclave, specimen Walk-in Cold Room 575 sqft prep, data and image processing, culture room Cold storage of specimens and chemicals
Emergency Boat Storage 960 sqft Wave tanks 1590 sqft Storage of lifeboats 15m x 1.5m wave tank and 7m x 1.5m flume
Fabrication Shop 1145 sqft Wet Laboratory 1920 sqft Machine, electrical, mechanical, and carpentry Wet benches, dissection benches, connection to shop wave tanks, and specimen repository
Helipad 2500 sqft program Helicopter landing pad for emergency Research Spaces: 21,785 sq. ft. 82 evacuation
program analysis Educational Spaces: Meeting spaceforprojectteamsof8-12people Small ConferenceRoom Men’s andWomen’sRR Restrooms Administrative staffworkspace Offices central elementwithinthebuilding Public entryforconventionsandservesasa Lobby processes Water andwastetreatmentviabiotic Living Machine Meeting spaceforgroupsof25peopleorless Large ConferenceRm Food preperationforguestcafeteria Kitchen Sitting spacenearauditoriumandcafeteria Guest Lounge Cultivation ofsomefoodusedwithinthefacility Greenhouse Obseration spaceandsystemscontrol Control Center/WeatherStation Storage ofwaterusedwithinthefacility Cisterns andrainwaterdistribution Guest eatingspace Cafeteria scientific researchers Lecture spaceforconferencesandgatheringof Auditorium Educational Spaces
1980 sqft 10,680 sq.ft. 170 sqft 440 sqft 700 sqft 890 sqft 890 sqft 400 sqft 580 sqft 540 sqft 1350 sqft 700 sqft 480 sqft 1560 sqft private restroom.Accommodatestwotoaroom. Dorm stylelivingwithbedroom,seatingarea,and Two PersonSuites Men’s andWomen’sRR Staff Restrooms Gathering spaceforfull-timeemployees Staff Lounge employees Food prepanddiningspaceforfull-time Staff Kitchen Excercise space Running Track General recreationspaceforemployees Fitness andrecreation Staff Spaces Total SquareFootage: Other Spaces: Floating platformdirectlyconnectedtoocean Ocean Deck(outdoorspace) Corridoors andstairwelloverflow Misc. CirculationSpace Other Spaces Staff Spaces:
(10 @940)
74,625sq.ft.
program analysis 9400 sqft 700 sqft 770 sqft 1330 sqft on deck 2000 sqft 27,600 sq.ft. 16800 sqft 10800 sqft 14,200 sq.ft.
83 program ulig oe, o egbrn bidns for natural or parks buildings public no context, neighboring architectural no codes, no were building there if design the inform could what characteristics. Consequently, I began to ponder aforementioned the of devoid is site this projects other many unlike Yet, infrastructure. buildings, economic and surrounding thoroughfares, transportation by greenspace, regulated be can project loosely a Normally context. little very provided site For the thought mistakenly design. I the example, inform could even factors or what should, discern to difficult was it process design the of beginning the In process. design the influence greatly relationships programmatic and site project the of understanding thorough a iia t mn acietrl endeavors, architectural many to Similar programmatic designandbuildingformstudies section7_0: designprocess nerl set o te rjc. vrl, the Overall, energy wave ocean in used processes project. technical the of aspects integral become also have concerns environmental and design the development. Floating architectural technologies within decisions many for become basis also the would they but building, the power for generate waves ocean would only Not project. the to be would waves ocean important how recognized also I time that At potential. of I began to realize the liquid desert was actually full East. While looking for some semblance of context as a vast liquid desert with a rugged coastline to the thread within this project I began to regard the site contextual only the was water Incorrectly ocean assuming embrace. to community ideologies of cultural sense or a nor subsume, to vistas
84 programmatic distribution base model 7.01 conversion and their implications on every facet been developed by advocating the aqueous site. of the natural and built environment have evolved For example, the design began to investigate the into a front running design methodology for this various methods by which the building could be thesis. Finally, considering the convictions of situated within the water. Allowing the building Archigram and the Metabolists have also become functions to stack vertically exposed a variety of important. Incorporating change, exchange, relevant and not so relevant design conjectures. movement, temporality, and modularity into this To begin with, the building spaces have been project have helped build a strong foundation. separated into six categories or programmatic design process
A programmatic design approach has also zones so the building can be thought of in smaller 85
programmatic design due to the emergency helipad and photovoltaic and helipad emergency the to due spaces occupiable from the open air would the not be acceptable removed which arrangements the Specifically, project. thesis this for feasible not be would which arrangements programmatic City. like much Marine surface Kikutake’s or Factory water Floating Kurokawa’s the along zones of clustering the or elements programmatic the of spacing horizontal involve could solutions possible Other surface. ocean the near or at located be must which devices conversion wave ocean for except water below spaces all programmatic contain the iterations final The Orbiter. Sea the of design the like much underwater also located be could space living staff ideal, be not may it Although underwater. located be could they so outside the to windows or views need not do spaces storage example, For water. the of out remain others while level water the below located be to spaces possible some allows Another organization building surges. storm from structure the building protect to water the the of out that raised be should notion the upon based are permutations these boats, and Forts, Sea Maunsell building above water as possible. Similar to oil rigs, the of much as locating by manipulated first was model The model. base this of permutations in tracked be can that references numerical with model base a in delineated zone vertically been Each has divisions. last the within contained are functions rooftop and storage, quarters, staff spaces are within the second and third zones while energy conversion devices. Meeting and research wave as such water the on located be must that elements programmatic of comprised is zone first The manipulated. easily are which components h peiu ieain rvae some revealed iterations previous The programmatic distributionbase models programmatic design 7.02
86 design process building response to changing wave direction 7.03 array being located underwater. Coupled with position to the waves there can be efficient energy several variations that could be feasible and no conversion. The above schematic development realistic means to select the appropriate design shows how the entire building, shown here as parti, further graphic models were investigated. a row of conversion devices, could respond to Within these graphic models the concept of the waves as one large element or as a series of modular building movement and response were hinged components. investigated. Sectional investigation has also been quite Ocean wave energy represents the rewarding. Assuming the building components fundamental design methodology of this thesis could be arranged in multiple configurations, project. Therefore the dynamics of waves have according to previous programmatic models, the been used to formulate another design conjecture. building could take any shape above or below Understanding that waves will not always originate the waterline. Conversion devices however must from the same direction, a possible solution be located at the waterline and in section the enables the built form to respond to wave motion building would need to share a continuous or or ocean currents. In order to efficiently utilize semi-continuous shape to house the devices. An ocean power the conversion device must operate example of this sectional investigation can be seen perpendicular to the incoming waves. If the to the right. These studies examined the possibility building components, or at least the conversion of the programmatic zones extending above and design process
devices, are able to move into a perpendicular below the water while sharing a common middle 87
building form schematic sectional models building form 7.04
88 design process space to connect the zones. Much like the Sea seasonal variations. For example, waves within this Orbiter these studies utilize a wide underwater area can arrive within 195 and 345 degrees while base to help stabilize the building. Another most waves arrive between 280 and 300 degrees. possible iteration is for the programmatic zones As mentioned earlier, the building or conversion to share a common middle while each zone also device must be able to move and respond to extends from the center in order to accommodate a changing wave direction; or the building can the programmatic requirements. Although these remain static while the form of the building must
directional wind and wave rose 7.05 wave direction and building form study 7.06 graphic models appear to be quite frenetic, they undulate in a manner which can intercept waves are central to the design process. from multiple directions. The first form examined is A final graphic investigation further linear in shape. Although this form intercepts waves questions the form of the building and the building’s traveling at right angles to the building, any wave relationship to ocean waves. Seen above and entering at an angle other than ninety degrees will to the right, these diagrams show various parti lead to less successful energy conversion. Other shapes and the path of ocean waves hitting the building shapes that have been investigated are forms from the west, northwest, and southwest. In circular, rectilinear, and variations on the former. order to determine the orientation of the structure These studies have revealed that rectilinear within the water, it will be helpful to understand shapes are far less efficient at capturing ocean wave direction within the region. Although Cape power than iterations containing convex and
Mendocino ocean waves typically run into the concave shapes. With each model the number design process
shore from a northwesterly direction there can be of perpendicular wave strikes has been recorded. 89
building form Therefore, a “W” or “M” shape juxtaposed on the on juxtaposed shape “M” or “W” a Therefore, directions. multiple from hits most the record will model appropriate most the use; to shape best the is strikes perpendicular of number highest the records model whichever seem may it Although wave directionandbuildingformstudy approach angleofthewaves. or device, conversion building, the of orientation the matter no energy wave ocean of amounts most the capture to suited best are shapes These waterline will be the most effective building shape. building form 7.07
90 design process Schematic Design of Building Relationship to Ocean Waves and Spatial Organization Although a building shaped like a “W” or could be segmented so that it could rotate and “M” will capture the most ocean wave energy, I sway with the shifting marine environment. [Refer do not believe, following rigorous design testing, a back to Figure 7.03]. At first glance, a segmented formal language comprised of multiple curves or design appears to be applicable because it facets at the water level will lead to an insightful solves the problem of the building being static response to the thesis question. For example, and unresponsive. Following investigation, a the “W” and “M” shapes are designed as static segmented design would involve a myriad of structures which are moored in one seaward hinged and fixed connections both above and location and are designed to resists the variable below the water line. The hinged connections forces of the ocean. A static structure therefore are necessary so that ocean waves can pass must conform to a shape which will capture though the segments, yet they also would enable energy from many different directions because the an exponential amount of pitching and heaving. structure itself is unable to react to the changing Due to a high likelihood of occupant seasickness, ocean waves and currents. Conversely, a building a segmented design would be futile. located in the ocean, utilizing wave energy, A plausible solution for a floating building design process
building orientation to predominant 7.08 91 wave direction of cape mendocino building relationship to ocean waves wave direction ofcapemendocino building orientationtopredominant ocean waves is capable of load shedding and the oncoming the to perpendicular moored structure a technology, floating large aforementioned the Water on Designing within discussed VLFS or Structures, Floating designed Large Very Japanese and the Megafloats from traced be can building responsetooceanwaves of Section Two Section eueaig Typology: Rejuvenating . Considering . wave direction is visible. Due to mooring the floating predominant the rose wave the within Also, seen. ocean wave and ocean variable current directions can be the Mendocino Cape for rose wave a the length of the structure. Therefore, by mapping along lessened is waves the of movement vertical tutr aog h peoiat ae direction wave predominant the along structure building relationship tooceanwaves 7.10 7.09
92 design process rotation ofwaveenergyconversion appendages the pulling By machine. living a and arrays requirements are supplemented with photovoltaic energy Additional facility. research marine the for power required the of all almost generate to used Turbines, described in Wells and columns water Oscillating structures. ancillary outboard the within located are devices conversion energy wave Ocean building. main ancillary structures are evident on either side of the and manner described previously the in aligned is structure main the evident is it diagram this Within rose. wave Mendocino Cape the with juxtaposed design preliminary a shows 7.10 Figure exploited. be can VLFS to afforded principles deformation elastic the and waves ocean of majority the with line of symmetry, the building will be axially aligned Section Two , are the devices aaee eaoit doois f change, of exchange, transformation,andelasticity. ideologies Metabolist expresses parti Japanese the under Furthermore, and through, building. the around, move to water allowing by site vacillating a embraces parti the example, For constraints. site and methodology, design question, thesis design original the addresses parti this parts, two of Made energy. ocean capture efficiently to order in position into rotate to devices conversion the allows appendages, energy wave the of underside the to attached keel, fin large a change wave ocean of direction with the varying waves and ocean currents. As the freely rotate can structure boom and devices the structure, main the from away devices conversion
ute ivsiain f h pri a led has parti the of investigation Further building relationship tooceanwaves 7.11
93 design process floor plans, a few diagrammatic building diagrammatic afew plans, floor design intervention. these drawings were a launching point for the final Furthermore, process. design this to component anintrinsic are they design, finished a represent not do drawings following the Although sections. building and plans floor multiple generated also process design schematic The and levels. idiosyncratic correlative the both at groups user and systems of functionality ensure to conspicuously interconnected been have spaces educational and spaces, research spaces, living staff between spatial organization. For the example, the interior relationships to paid was attention great schematic design, the Within facility. research floating marine the of development schematic the to schematic sectionaldesignofoscillatingwatercolumn n re t bte udrtn the understand better to order In other research spaces. The middle section of the of section middle The spaces. research other the near building the of half back the in located are therefore and excursions, research and diving scuba for points launch as serve also docks These for the transfer of supplies, equipment, and visitors. docks are building the of side either on Located building. the of rear the at found be can purple, in highlighted spaces, research Marine Ocean. Pacific occupants vast the of that view mesmerizing a so enjoy can building the of front the at found be can functions recreation and living staff the blue, in Colored building. the of organization understood. The first diagram looks into the spatial clearly more is floor each between relationships the so another one above stacked plans floor the with composed are diagrams these that noted be representations have been created. It should also schematic design ofspatialorganization 7.12
94 design process program diagram auditorium, greenhouse, station, meteorological a offices, rooms, Conference center. educational and administrative the as well as building the of building, seen in red, serves as the circulation core 7.13 the vertical circulation of stair towers and a ramp a and towers stair Both of circulation vertical the building. the within routes circulation examines the diagram second The design. the of area this within contained all are cafeteria and circulation diagram schematic design ofspatialorganization 7.14
95 design process fourth floor plan roof plan methodological and program building of aspects detail canbeseenintheprecedingimages. Finally, building floor plans, sections, green. and a shading device in highlighted vertical are and connections horizontal provides which system While this design took into account various account into took design this While to bequiteforeboding. appears structure the because comfort occupant consider fully not did design the addition, In ship. cruise or boat a resembled haphazardly design the Structure, Floating Large Very a of principles schematic design ofspatialorganization 7.15
96 design process building longitudinalsection first floorplan second floor plan third floor plan schematic design ofspatialorganization 7.16
97 design process section andplan oscillating watercolumn building transversesections schematic design ofspatialorganization shading devicedetails 7.17
98 design process Concepts Revisited: A Fresh Design Consideration Another design iteration was completed in order to make the building not resemble a boat. Before beginning this iteration the overall thesis concept was revisited as a means to generate a building form and method of organization. For example, thinking back to ocean wave energy conversion and more specifically the oscillating water column, there is an important relationship sine functions 7.19 between water, the air chamber, and the rigid structure of the conversion device. The oscillating water column is constructed with a steel or concrete hull used to resist the force of the oncoming ocean waves. Within this structure is the air and water column which rises and falls with the varying fluid pressure inside the chamber.
development of building form 7.20
oscillating water column 7.18
Using this idea of solid structure and fluid material as a metaphor for design, a series of sine and cosine waves were plotted on an X-Y graph. (Ocean waves take the shape of a sinusoidal curve when wind blows across the surface of the ocean). The following functions were plotted: f = sin x 4 development of building form 7.21 f = sin x 6 f = sin x f = 4sin x f = 6sin x Numbers four and six have been used within these functions because the average wave period at the design process
project site is six seconds, the average wave height building elevation sketch 7.22 99
Concepts Revisited: A Fresh Design Consideration rm lre rs sse wt tnin cables. tension with system truss large a from vertical members. Structurally, the building is hung minimal and towers stair with platform floating the to connected only is and mass hovering a be to appears building the where derived was concept wave energy. building form will aid in the teaching about ocean and floating architecture. Optimistically, an iconic wave design sustainable of applicability the and energy about public general the teach to used aspect of this important project is an An educational component conversion. energy wave ocean and environment marine the of ideas evoke to as Introduction s1.0: order to become iconic in nature. As mentioned in The building form has taken the shape of a wave in space. occupiable and structure as well as and void mass of relationships generated these diagrams Finally, spaces. programmatic organize to means a as used been also have waves sine building form in section and elevation. The plotted a at arrive to created were overlays and sketches waves). After plotting the functions, a sequence of and wind of interrelationship the to due significant is rating wind (The rating. velocity wind Four Class a has region Mendocino Cape the and feet, six is structure vs.occupiablespace okn fo te lte sn wvs a waves, sine plotted the from Working , the building should be iconic so iconic be should building the , structural designofhovering buildingmass ii sel rm spotn te ulig dead building the supporting frame steel rigid a is building the Inside movements. lateral any and loading live the of some take to used is and building the of outside is system truss vertical This connected to the exterior truss system by way of way by system truss exterior the to connected frame is rigid This platform. floating the to down building the of weight the bring to order in cores tower stair structural into tied is frame The loads. Concepts Revisited: AFreshDesignConsideration 7.25 7.24 7.23
100 design process spatial buildingzones an In platform. the on found be also can access SCUBA and shop functions. fabrication the as such programmatic Spaces and space, loading areas, docking boat contains also but structure, This platform not only provides a basis for the entire distinct zones. The first zone is the floating platform. above thesurfaceofwater. floats thebuilding floor, ocean the above floats platform the as just pieces; floating the between drawn comparison last one be can there Finally, system. truss exterior float the from hung to being to due appears building the Likewise, water. the of tension surface the and platform the inside chambers air to due floats platform the example, For surface. water ocean the on rests platform floating the which by manner the to similar very is complicated, it is quite simple. The overall concept sound may system structural the Although floors. level upper and roof the in sections girder large Spatially, the building is organized into three rdcin n wse ramn. s mentioned As treatment. waste and production food for used machine living and greenhouse the including sub-divisions programmatic other are many there zone this Within located. are spaces occupiable other all where mass wave hovering even theresidentialsuites. or areas, research the spaces, educational the to access direct for towers stair two other the of one can resident ascend the or grand stair to the lobby visitor or can move to a boat by arriving when For example, platform. floating the on begun is sequence entry building the Finally, too. platform the of areas outer the encircles track running a facilities, exercise with residents provide to effort h suh ie f h bidn i odr o take to daylighting, and gain order solar passive of advantage in building the of side south the toward placed been have spaces the of Many massing. overall the within and spaces administrative educational of variety a are there earlier, Concepts Revisited: AFreshDesignConsideration h scn zn o te ulig s the is building the of zone second The 7.26
101 design process while the northern side of the building is generally the palpitating motions of the devices in response reserved for circulation and atrium spaces which to rolling ocean waves. Therefore, removing the provide passive stack ventilation. conversion devices from the main structure not Zone three of the building is comprised of the only prevents a person from dangerously climbing ocean wave energy conversion devices. Similar to onto the devices, but also allows for the efficient the previous scheme, the conversion devices have conversion of ocean energy. It should also be been pulled away from the main structure so they noted, the conversion devices have been moved may rotate to efficiently capture wave energy. closer to the front or windward end of the platform An interesting dichotomy exists between the main in order to better capture wave energy. In the floating platform and the ancillary structures used previous scheme the conversion devices were to capture wave energy. To begin with, the main located in the middle of the platform and there platform has been designed according to the was a possibility the floating structure would specifications of a Very Large Floating Structure in dampen the wave action before reaching the order to stabilize the building while the conversion conversion devices. devices have been designed to be as small as One last important aspect of the building is possible to better maneuver through the water user interaction. Due to being located three miles when reacting to the changing direction of ocean from land, occupants will undoubtedly feel some waves. Although the conversion devices could be level of isolation. Therefore, creating a sense of used for programmed areas, they do not provide community within the architecture is essential. In a suitable framework for habitable space due to order to combat this issue the residential spaces design process
spatial building zones 7.27 102
Concepts Revisited: A Fresh Design Consideration have been designed as two person suites and and warm sunlight. Staff gathering spaces such are delineated within the larger mass so that as lounges and recreation areas have also been each occupant and their personal space have incorporated into the design so that residents an identity. The suites also have a south facing have the ability to build peer relationships outside orientation so the bedrooms and communal living of science research. space of the suites enjoy views to the exterior
Roof Plan
6th Floor Plan
5th Floor Plan
4th Floor Plan
3th Floor Plan
2nd Floor Plan design process
7.28 103
Concepts Revisited: A Fresh Design Consideration Oscillating WaterColumnSections Floating PlatformPlan 1st FloorPlan Concepts Revisited: AFreshDesignConsideration 7.29
104 design process west elevation south elevation Concepts Revisited: AFreshDesignConsideration 7.31 7.30
105 design process known and accepted as solar cells have become have cells solar as accepted and known well as become point some at and developed be to continue will energy wave ocean believe I energy renewable of reliance for call fact in does that (minus the wave energy component). If the future interventions proposing was I possibilities same architectural the considered unaware previous was I of but architecture, and energy ocean combine to way interesting an be could the onset of the project I thought floating buildings a reality much earlier than I originally perceived. At the concept of floating architecture could become Reflecting on this thesis project I now realize section8_0: reflection mas o as te wrns o sustainable design andrenewableenergy sources. of awareness the as raise serve to can means project a thesis this hope I Finally, building. green of outlook future the determine to success of barometer the be to continue will Education floating awareness. main and advocacy both are the issues of design case sustainable and the architecture In popularity. in gaining continue that will solutions seems design sustainable it environment natural the of state present the considering when but solution, design mainstream a becoming before go to way long a has also design Sustainable years. ten last the in final thoughtsonthethesis
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