A-T-G Louvers: a novel geometry and material driven spatial syntax for flexible structures

Abstract

The urgency of the climate crisis has led to a critical re-evaluation of architectural construction practices. We propose integrating social and environmental aspects into sustainable architectural design, emphasizing resource efficiency by lightweight structures. Elastic grid structures that use flexible, linear elements to span spaces are typically lightweight and optimized for material efficiency, often resulting in repetitive patterns. Similar to elastic grid structures, in nature Weaverbirds bend and twist long, flexible strips to arrange the pattern of their nest structure based on their comfort in their surrounding environment. We explore possibilities aimed at balancing material resources with architectural, structural, and environmental considerations in the design of elastic grid structures. Inspired by Weaverbirds, this paper presents the design, simulation, generation and evaluation of a spatial grid structure with a bespoke combination of strip patterns to control glare, addressing a social aspect of sustainability. The realized structure presents the Asymptotic-Twist-Geodesic (A-T-G) Louvers as an alternative to conventional blinds for office and computer workspaces. The A-T-G Louvers combine two common strip pattern types: geodesic, where the profile is tangential to the surface, and asymptotic, where the profile is orthogonal to the surface, to achieve a more none-repetitive design. To ensure a smooth transition between these two patterns types, the continuous strip profile twists by 90° along its longitudinal direction. Results show an environmentally friendly, low waste lightweight structure that significantly improves indoor comfort, specifically glare. The realized A-T-G Louvers signal a reemergence of flexible grid structures with increased design freedom for sustainable lightweight architecture.