PIEZO DE JANEIRO
CLIMATIC SHIFT
The inspiration behind the Piezo de Janeiro façade design and development is ingrained in the climate and culture of Rio de Janeiro. Projected analyses of Rio’s shifting weather patterns predict a drastic increase in wind forces due to a changing climate. This project accommodates for these climatic shifts, in addition to the existing harsh solar and precipitation conditions experienced throughout the year in tropical, equatorial climates. The design incorporates wind harnessing elements that incorporate passive shading properties to establish comfortable, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing interiors.
MATERIAL INSPIRATION
Rio de Janeiro’s globalized culture of sport and athletics provided material inspiration for the façade design. This era has shaped significant cultural and physical impacts on the entire country of Brazil, namely the development stimulated by the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games. The roof systems of stadiums, generally consisting of textile surfaces and steel tension members, provide a functionality and aesthetic that can operate synergistically with wind and solar façade elements. Through the harnessing of these two elements, the burdens placed on the mechanical and electrical systems can be reduced and consumption of power from city infrastructure potentially supplemented with sustainably produced, clean energy.
TWISTING AND BULGING TEXTILE RIBBONS
The Piezo de Janeiro façade imagines elements to harness wind and solar energies, in addition to providing passive shading, rain screening, and aesthetic appeal. The predominant feature of the façade, twisting and bulging textile ribbons, harness energy through the use of piezoelectric elements stimulated by the wind-induced fluttering of the fabric. This fabric also incorporates a flexible solar cell technology printed onto an airtight, water resistant, fluorine based plastic or ETFE. These solar cells are integrated into the ETFE through a vapour printing and evaporative deposit process.
PIEZOELECTRIC ELEMENT
The ETFE ribbons are fixed to the cable truss structural system through stainless steel extensions of the spreader struts, penetrating through the glazing at each corner joint, sealed in with structural sealant. Affixed to the end of each rod is the piezoelectric element.
Group Work | M1 Advanced Construction | Fall 2014