Thanonchai Watlom’s scientific contributions

The design process of dynamic architecture has been an emerging topic in recent studies, in which researchers try to find an effective method of generating and controlling adaptive components. In this paper, we present a digital-physical modelling process that seeks to explore tectonic fusion of origami folding patterns and micro-kinetic movements. A flexible modular prototype system is developed and evaluated through combining origami-based fabrication simulation and mathematical characterisation mimicking the pinecone's nastic movements. The modular design system is then applied to an urban site as a test case study. The results show how the pinecone-like nastic movements may be translated into design and fabrication of an adaptive architecture. We discuss the lessons learned from the digital-physical prototyping process finding the balance between geometric flexibility and micro-kinetic adaptability.

This study investigates a digital modelling process that aims at achieving architectural flexibility and adaptability. Inspired by the pinecone nastic movement, a flexible modular design is proposed and evaluated through various methods including a mathematical parametric generator and origami-based fabrication simulation. The modular design system was applied to a specific chosen site with its environ- mental and contextual requirements. The results show how the pine- cone-like nastic movement may be translated into design and fabrication of adaptive architecture. We discuss the likely impacts of the kinetic features on architectural sustainability as well as the effective- ness of parametric modelling.