Digital Urban Simulation: Documentation of the teaching results from the spring semester 2016

Documentation of the teaching results from the spring semester 2017
Digital Urban Simulation
Peter Buš, Estefania Tapias, and Gerhard Schmitt

Chair of Information Architecture
Digital Urban Simulation
Documentation of teaching results
Peter Buš, Estefania Tapias, and Gerhard Schmitt
Chair of Information Architecture
Teaching
Peter Buš, Estefania Tapias, and Gerhard Schmitt
Syllabi
http://www.ia.arch.ethz.ch/category/fs2017-digital-urban-simulation/
Seminar
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation
Students
Daniel Rea Kragskov, Jack Kenning, Nicolas Zimmermann, Thomas Wüthrich, Ludovic Regnault, Zhe Dong
Published by
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETHZ)
Department of Architecture
Institute of Technology in Architecture
Chair of Information Architecture
Wolfgang-Pauli-Strasse 27, HIT H 31.6
8093 Zurich
Switzerland
Zurich, August 2017
Layout Editor
Brigitte M. Clements
Contact
bus@arch.ethz.ch | http://www.ia.arch.ethz.ch/bus/
Cover picture:
Front side: Laura Cowie, Comparison Grid Patterns

Course Description and Program
Digital Urban Simulation
Mondays 14:00 - 18:00
063-1358-17G | 4 ECTS*
Digital Urban Simulation
20.02.2017
Introduction into Analysis and Simulation
Ex> Tool: Rhino Grasshopper
In this course students analyze architectural and urban design
using current computational methods. Based on these analyses
the effects of planning can be simulated and understood. An
important focus of this course is the interpretation of the analysis
and simulation results and the application of these corresponding
methods in early planning phases.
The students learn how the design and planning of cities can be
evidence based by using scientific methods. The teaching unit
conveys knowledge in state-of-the-art and emerging spatial
analysis and simulation methods and equip students with skills
in modern software systems. The course consists of lectures,
associated exercises, workshops as well as of one integral
project work.
27.02.2017
06.03.2017
13.03.2017
20.03.2017
27.03.2017
03.04.2017
10.04.2017
08.05.2017
Connectivity, Accessibility, Path Detection, Urban Networks.
Ex> Tool: Rhino Grasshopper + Cheetah ConfigUrbanist addon
Visibility: Isovist Analysis, Urban Attractors
Ex> Tool: Rhino Grasshopper + SmartSpaceAnalyzer
(or DecodingSpaces)
Guest lecture - Dr. Beatrix Emo
Seminar Week
Urban Climate I
Ex>Tool: Rhino Grasshopper + LadyBug
Urban Climate II
Ex>Tool: Rhino Grasshopper + LadyBug
Guest Lecture
Final consultation
15.05.2017
Project Presentations, Final Critiques
Where
HIT H 31.4 (Video wall)
Supervision
Dr. Peter Bus
bus@arch.ethz.ch
Dr. Estefania Tapias tapias@arch.ethz.ch
*Total 120 h = 4 ECTS
5 Exercises: 50% (documentations)
Presentation of final project: 25%
Written documentation of final project: 25%
The most recent outline will be found on www.ia.arch.ethz.ch
Prof. Dr. Gerhard Schmitt
Chair of Information Architecture
Information Science Lab
Wolfgang-Pauli-Strasse 27, 8093 Zurich
www.ia.arch.ethz.ch

Content
The Sun as a Design Tool
Student: Daniel Rea Kragskov
Shading our Cities:
A parametric approach
Student: Jack Kenning
Shading and Solar Irradiation
on a Cylindical Building
Student: Nicolas Zimmerman
Follow the Path of the Sun
Student: Thomas Wüthrich
Infinite Isovist
Student: Ludovic Regnault
Sanlitun Taikooli
Student: Zhe Dong

p.9
p.21
p.29
p.37
p.45
p.53

8
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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The Sun as a Design Tool
Student: Daniel Rea Kragskov
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
9

Site
Site
Site
Site
Site
Site
Name: Daniel Rea Kragskov
Date: 5. Mai 2017
Summary:
Abstract
Throughout this paper, I will use the Solar Envelope tool first envisioned by Ralph L. Knowles to investigate
The Throughout the potential Sun this of paper, as creating a I will Design a use design the Solar tool Tool that Envelope will lend tool first us informed envisioned knowledge by Ralph L. with Knowles a specific to investigate urban area
the in mind potential about of creating the sun a and design its shadow tool that will footprint. lend us The informed Solar knowledge Envelope tool with has a specific been urban further area developed in mind
about the sun and its shadow footprint. The Solar Envelope tool has been further developed by Carlo Ratti and
Name: by Carlo Daniel Ratti Rea and Kragskov Eugenio Morello into Iso-Solar-Surfaces. In the Grasshopper plugin for Rhino, a
Eugenio Morello into Iso-Solar-Surfaces. In the Grasshopper plugin for Rhino, a component allows me to use
Date: component 5. Mai allows 2017 me to use the Iso-Solar-Surfaces on custom geometry. The results of the investigation
the Iso-Solar-Surfaces on custom geometry. The results of the investigation is a redesign of a previous project
taking is a redesign shadow of footprint a previous into project consideration. taking shadow The outcome footprint is a structure into consideration. that fulfils the The criteria outcome set forth is a structure in terms
of that shadow fulfils footprint the criteria and set surface forth area. in terms The aesthetic of shadow outcome footprint is not and sufficient surface though area. The and aesthetic as such, the outcome tool is
Abstract
should not sufficient only be though seen as and a guide as such, for the the build tool volume should and only not be a design seen as in itself. a guide for the build volume and not
Throughout a design in this itself. paper, I will use the Solar Envelope tool first envisioned by Ralph L. Knowles to investigate
Location
the potential of creating a design tool that will lend us informed knowledge with a specific urban area in mind
about the sun and its shadow footprint. The Solar Envelope tool has been further developed by Carlo Ratti and
The Eugenio site for Morello the investigation into Iso-Solar-Surfaces. is situated on In the Refshaleøen Grasshopper in Copenhagen, plugin for Rhino, Denmark. a component allows me to use
the Iso-Solar-Surfaces on custom geometry. The results of the investigation is a redesign of a previous project
taking shadow footprint into consideration. The outcome is a structure that fulfils the criteria set forth in terms
of shadow footprint and surface area. The aesthetic outcome is not sufficient though and as such, the tool
should only be seen as a guide for the build volume and not a design in itself.
Location
Denmark
Copenhagen
Refshaleøen
The site for the investigation is situated on Refshaleøen in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Location: The site for the investigation is situated on Refshaleøen in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Previous Project
The previous project seeks to place a lot of apartments in a new part of Copenhagen to counter the housing
Denmark
Copenhagen
shortage for people with low income. Therefore, the project uses a module as the building block to keep costs
down. The typology is a mix between rowhouses, apartment buildings, and a skyscraper with shared space
outside Previous and inside. Project:
Refshaleøen
2400mm
2400mm
The previous project seeks to place a lot of apartments in a new part of Copenhagen to counter the
2400mm 2400mm
3200mm
Previous housing shortage Project for people with low income. Therefore, the project uses a module as the building
2600mm
3600mm
block to keep costs down. The typology is a mix between rowhouses, apartment buildings, and a
The previous project seeks to place
2400mm
a lot of apartments in a new part of Copenhagen to counter the housing
3400mm
3400mm
skyscraper with shared space outside and inside.
shortage for people with low income. Therefore, the project uses a module as the building block to keep costs
The Grid
1200mm
3400mm
down. The typology is a mix between rowhouses, apartment Previous Project buildings, and a skyscraper with shared space Previous Project
outside and inside.
3000mm
3000mm
Building Volume
2800mm
2400mm
2800mm
2400mm
2400mm
2600mm
2400mm
4000mm
3200mm
Digital Urban Simulation |
3600mm
Final examination
2600mm
2400mm
3400mm
3400mm
1200mm
3400mm
The Grid
Previous Project
Building Volume
Previous Project
3000mm
3000mm
2800mm
2800mm
2600mm
4000mm
Digital Urban Simulation | Final examination
10
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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iA Architecture

Shadow Footprint
Shadow Footprint:
The footprint of the shadows from the building area is quite large as the project was developed without thorough
The The footprint study of
of the
the shadow
shadows the area is quite large as the project was developed without a thorough
study of the shadow
impact.
from
impact.
The
the
The
result
building
result
is
is
as
as
follows:
area is quite large as the project was developed without
follows:
a thorough study of the shadow impact. The result is as follows:
Analysis of Shadows
Simple Analysis
Simple Analysis
Solar Envelope Tool:
Solar Envelope Tool
Ralph L. Knowles developed a tool to create a physical shape from knowledge of sun direction and
the Ralph
Ralph
cadastres L.
L.
Knowles
Knowles
in an developed
developed
urban environment. a
tool
tool
to
to
create
create
The a
physical
physical
result shape
shape
was an from
from
urban knowledge
knowledge
planning of
of
sun
sun
tool direction
direction
that could and
and
be the
the
used, cadastres
cadastres
an
for
instance, an in urban
urban American environment.
environment. suburbs The
The due result
result to was
was their an
an regular urban
urban patterns planning
planning
tool
tool and that
that therefore could
could
be
be easy used,
used, doable for
for
instance,
instance, shapes. in
in
American
American
suburbs
suburbs
due
due
to
to
their
their
regular
regular
patterns
patterns
and
and
therefore
therefore
easy
easy
doable
doable
shapes.
shapes.
Sun and Cadastres
Input
Input
Ralph
Ralph
L.
L.
Knowles
Knowles
describes
describes
his
his
tool
tool
in
in
this
this
quote:
quote:
“The
“The
solar
solar
envelope
envelope
is
is a
construct
construct
of
of
space
space
and
and
time:
time:
the
the
physical
physical
boundaries
boundaries
of
of
surrounding
surrounding
properties
properties
and
and
the
the
period
period
of
of
their
their
assured
assured
access
access
to
to
sunshine.
sunshine.
The
The
way
way
these
these
measures
measures
are
are
set
set
decides
decides
the
the
envelope’s
envelope’s
final
final
size
size
Ralph and L. Knowles describes his tool in this quote: “The solar envelope is a construct of space and time:
and
shape.”
shape.”
(Ralph
(Ralph
L.
L.
Knowles
Knowles
2000,
2000,
The
The
Solar
Solar
Envelope
Envelope -
Its
Its
meaning
meaning
for
for
urban
urban
growth
growth
and
and
form,
form,
page
page
2)
2)
the physical boundaries of surrounding properties and the period of their assured access to sunshine.
The way these measures are set decides the envelope’s final size and shape.” (Ralph L. Knowles 2000,
The Solar Envelope - Its meaning for urban growth and form, page 2)
Digital Urban Simulation Final examination
Digital Urban Simulation | Final examination
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
11

Urban Context
Use
A problem with this method is that it becomes increasingly diffucult to calculate the shape if you would like to
consider A problem more with sun this angles method and more is that complex it becomes patterns increasingly of cadastres. diffucult to calculate the Urban shape Context if you would
Use
like to consider more sun angles and more complex patterns of cadastres. Therefore, Carlo Ratti and
Therefore, Eugenio Morello Carlo Ratti developed and Eugenio a Morello computation developed method a computation utilizing method Iso-Solar-Surfaces utilizing Iso-Solar-Surfaces to create the to Solar
create the Solar Envelope for more complex situations.
Envelope A problem for with more this method complex is situations.
that becomes increasingly diffucult to calculate the shape if you would like to
consider more sun angles and more complex patterns of cadastres.
Solar Rights and Solar Collection
Solar Rights and Solar Collection
Urban Context
Therefore, Carlo Ratti and Eugenio Morello developed a computation method utilizing Iso-Solar-Surfaces to
Use
There create are the two Solar types Envelope of Solar for Envelopes more complex - Solar situations. Rights Envelope and Solar Collection Envelope. The Solar Rights
Envelope There are creates two types the envelope of Solar for Envelopes which the building - Solar cannot Rights extend Envelope if it is and to allow Solar a certain Collection amount Envelope. of sunlight
to its neighbouring cadastres. The Solar Collection Envelope creates the envelope for which a specific
Envelope creates the envelope for which the building cannot extend if it is to allow a certain
The
cadastre Solar A problem Rights with this
is ensured and method
to have Solar is that
sunlight Collection
it becomes increasingly diffucult to calculate the shape if you would like to
within the criteria.
amount consider of more sunlight angles to its and neighbouring more complex cadastres. patterns of The cadastres. Solar Collection Envelope creates the envelope
for There which are two a specific types of cadastre Solar Envelopes is ensured - Solar to Rights have Envelope sunlight within and Solar the Collection criteria. Envelope. The Solar Rights
Envelope Therefore, creates Carlo Ratti the envelope and Eugenio for which Morello the developed building cannot a computation extend if method it is to allow utilizing a certain Iso-Solar-Surfaces amount of sunlight
create to the its Solar neighbouring Envelope cadastres. for more complex The Solar situations. Collection Envelope creates the envelope for which a specific
to
Grasshopper cadastre is ensured Definitions
to have sunlight within the criteria.
Solar Rights and Solar Collection
The finished tool MAX
Output
There are two types is of developed Solar Envelopes in Grasshopper - Solar Rights using Envelope the Solar and Solar Envelope Collection Component. Envelope. It The takes Solar in Rights weather
and Envelope location creates data the as envelope well as objects for which
MINof the building built environment. cannot extend It then if it is calculates to allow a certain the Solar amount Envelopes of sunlight
to its neighbouring this into a volume cadastres. following The Solar the Collection rules of Envelope the initial creates project the of envelope modulization, for which division a specific of public
and
translates
cadastre is ensured to
Solar
have
Rights
sunlight within the criteria.
Solar Collection
space, and paths.
Solar Rights and Solar Collection
MAX
Grasshopper Definitions
The finished tool is developed Solar Rights in Grasshopper using Solar Collection the Solar Envelope Component. It takes in weather and
location data as well as objects of the built environment. It then calculates the Solar Envelopes and translates
this into a volume following the rules of the initial project of modulization, Solar Rights division and of public Solar space, Collection
and paths.
Grasshopper Definitions
Digital Urban Simulation |
MIN
Final examination
Solar Rights and Solar Collection
The finished tool is developed in Grasshopper using the Solar Envelope Component. It takes in weather and
location data as well as objects of the built environment. It then calculates the Solar Envelopes and translates
Grid Design
Solar Rights
Solar Collection
this into a volume following the rules of the initial project of modulization, division of public space, and paths.
Location
Exclusion of
Site
courtyards
No of
Sun Altitude
Modules
Treshold Nearby
Grasshopper Definitions
Sun Path
Parcels Solar Rights
Construction of
Calculation
Building Volume
Date&Time
The finished tool is developed in Grasshopper using Grid the DesignSolar Envelope Component. It takes in weather and
Height of
location
Location
data as well as objects of the built environment. Solar It then calculates structure Exclusion of the Solar Envelopes and translates
Site Collection
courtyards
No of
Sun Altitude
Modules
Treshold Nearby
Sun Path
Parcels Solar Rights
Construction of
Calculation
Building Volume An Overview
Date&Time
this into a volume following the rules of the initial project of modulization, division of public space, and paths.
Location
Date&Time
MAX
Sun Path
Calculation
MIN
Sun Altitude
Treshold
Site
Nearby
Parcels
Solar
Grid Collection Design
Solar Rights
Height of
structure
Exclusion of
courtyards
Height of
Because Grasshopper can be a bit messy
Solar
12
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation
structure
| Final project documentation
Collection
Digital Urban Simulation | Final examination
No of
Output
Output
Modules
An Overview
Construction Because of Grasshopper can be a bit messy
Building Volume
Chair of
Information
iA Architecture

An Overview
Because Grasshopper is also pretty sweet
The tool only uses Solar Rights Envelope (though it is capable of doing also the Solar Collection Envelope), but
The for this tool project only uses the task Solar was to Rights consider Envelope shadow footprint (though of it the is capable building itself. of doing also the Solar Collection
Envelope), but for this project the task was to consider shadow footprint of the building itself.
An Overview
Because Grasshopper is also pretty sweet
The tool only uses Solar Rights Envelope (though it is capable of doing also the Solar Collection Envelope), but
for this project the task was to consider shadow footprint of the building itself.
Solar Envelope Tool
Solar Rights
Combined
Solar Rights or Solar Collection?
Design Decisions
Ralph Knowles developed a tool to create a physical shape from knowledge of sun direction and the cadastres
in an urban environment. The result was an urban planning tool that could be used, for instance, in American
suburbs due to their regular patterns and therefore easy doable shapes.
Solar Envelope Tool
Solar Rights
Solar Collection
Combined
Solar Rights or Solar Collection?
Design Decisions
Ralph Knowles developed a tool to create a physical shape from knowledge of sun direction and the cadastres
in an urban environment. The result was an urban planning tool that could be used, for instance, in American
suburbs due to their regular patterns and therefore easy doable shapes.
Results
Using different input data will drastically change the results of the tool. We can change the span of months
and hours to consider as well as the lower limit of the altitude of the sun. The results can be seen on the following
pages.
Solar Collection
Results
Results
Using different input data will drastically change the results of the tool. We can change the span of months
Using different input data will drastically change the results of the tool. We can change the span of
and hours to consider as well as the lower limit of the altitude of the sun. The results can be seen on the following
pages.
as well as the lower limit of the altitude of the sun. The results can be
months Digital Urban and Simulation hours to consider | Final examination
seen on the following pages.
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
13

December
March
June
October
W
December
March
June-July
May-September
December
June
March
October
What months?
March-October
January-December
Design Decisions
June
June-July
October
May-September
What months?
Design Decisions
June-July
March-October
May-September
January-December
08:00 12:00
March-October
January-December
08:00 12:00
15:00 20:00
08:00 12:00
15:00 20:00
12:00-14:00 10:00-16:00
What hours?
Design Decisions
15:00 20:00
12:00-14:00 10:00-16:00
08:00-18:00 06:00-20:00
What hours?
Design Decisions
14
12:00-14:00 10:00-16:00
08:00-18:00 06:00-20:00
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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8000
7000
y = 1,6885x 2 + 339,33x - 303,9
R² = 0,9997
6000
5000
Modules [n]
4000
3000
2000
1000
0° 3°
0
0 5 10 15 20 25
Degrees [°]
8000
7000
y = -10197ln(x) + 50967
R² = 0,9982
6000
5000
Modules [n]
4000
3000
2000
1000
6° 9°
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140
Suns [n]
What sun altitude?
Design Decisions
12° 15°
18° 21°
Generally, it is best to consider all of the hours of the day and all months of the year. This would lead to a problem
though - the sun will always cast infinitely long shadows from the buildings just before sunset or just after
sunrise. This will lead to an envelope so small that nothing can be build. Therefore, I have introduced a sun
Generally, it is best to consider all of the hours of the day and all months of the year. This would lead
altitude limit that will exclude sun directions below a certain angle. In that way, we optimize the build volume
to versus a problem the shadow though footprint. - the sun will always cast infinitely long shadows from the buildings just before
sunset or just after sunrise. This will lead to an envelope so small that nothing can be build. Therefore,
I have
The first
introduced
graph show
a sun
a plot
altitude
of the relation
limit that
between
will exclude
sun altitude
sun directions
limit angle and
below
number
a certain
of modules.
angle.
We
In that
see
way,
that the tendency shows that lower angle equals lower amount of modules. The other graph shows the relation
optimize between the number build of volume sun calculations versus the (which shadow should footprint. reflect number The first of sun graph hours) show and number a plot of of the modules. relation
we
between The result sun shows altitude that you limit get angle slightly and better number tradeoff modules. between sun We hours see and that build the tendency volume, the shows higher that the lower
angle angle. equals The graph lower is an amount inverted of logarithmic modules. graph The which other makes graph sense shows as the build relation volume between would number infinite of if sun
no sun hours were considered. The tradeoff is therefore a design decision.
calculations (which should reflect number of sun hours) and number of modules. The result shows that
you get slightly better tradeoff between sun hours and build volume, the higher the angle. The graph is
Translation to a New Project
an inverted logarithmic graph which makes sense as the build volume would be infinite if no sun hours
were Taking considered. into consideration The tradeoff a new development is therefore a zone design just next decision. to the project site, we can create our final design
and carve out modules in the structure to get an airy feeling comparable to the initial project.
On the next page you see the Solar Rights Envelope, the translation into a build structure, and the translation
into a new project. Furthermore, a shadow analysis shows the impact of the shadows for the new project.
Translation to a New Project
Taking into consideration a new development zone just next to the project site, we can create our final
design and carve out modules in the structure to get an airy feeling comparable to the initial project.
On the next page you see the Solar Rights Envelope, the translation into a build structure, and the
translation into a new project. Furthermore, a shadow analysis shows the impact of the shadows for
the new project.
Digital Urban Simulation |
Final examination
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
15

Future building zones
Result
Building Volume
Result
New Building
Result
Shadow Analysis
Result
Digital Urban Simulation | Final examination
16
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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Comparison
We can compare the new and the old project on certain paramters as seen below:
Comparison
Comparison
Comparison
We can compare the new and the old project on certain paramters as seen below:
We can compare the new and the old project on certain paramters as seen below:
We can compare the new and the old project on certain paramters as seen below:
Old Building
4259 Modules
35.000m 2 building area
5.442m 2 covered by shadows
Shadow in Public Spaces
No consideration to future areas
New Building
4159 Modules
34.000m 2 building area
744m 2 covered by shadows
Sun in Public Spaces
Consideration to future areas
Comparison
Result
Old Building
New Building
Comparison
We see that the new project fulfils its goal of keeping its shadow impact to a minimal while still almost retaining
the same volume
4259 Modules
4159 Modules
35.000m 2 building area
34.000m 2 building area
5.442m 2 covered
as
Old by shadows Building
the previous project.
744m
The 2 covered New by
aesthetic
shadows Building
qualities are not as powerful though, which might
Result
Shadow in Public Spaces
Sun in Public Spaces
We be see something that No the consideration you new would to 4259 future project Modules areas have to fulfils work its with. goal Consideration This of to 4159 might keeping future Modules areas lead its to shadow either a smaller impact volume to a minimal or less Comparison
strict while shadowing still almost
35.000m
restrictions.
2 building area
34.000m 2 building area
5.442m 2 covered by shadows
744m 2 covered by shadows
Result
retaining the same Shadow in volume Public Spaces as the previous Sun project. in Public Spaces The aesthetic qualities are not as powerful though,
No consideration to future areas
Consideration to future areas
We see that the new project fulfils its goal of keeping its shadow impact to a minimal while still almost retaining
the might same be volume something as the previous you would project. have The to aesthetic work with. qualities This are might not as lead powerful to either though, a smaller which volume might or
which
less We Conclusion
be something strict see that shadowing the you new would project restrictions. have fulfils to work its goal with. of This keeping might its lead shadow to either impact a smaller to a minimal volume while or less still strict almost shadowing retaining
restrictions. the same volume as the previous project. The aesthetic qualities are not as powerful though, which might
be From something this investigation you would conclude: have to work with. This might lead to either a smaller volume or less strict shadowing
restrictions.
Conclusion Conclusion
- A design tool can be developed for the purpose of designing with sun rights in mind
- It succeeds in lowering shadow impact on neighboring buildings
Conclusion
From - Design this decisions investigation needs conclude: to be taken to ensure a good relation between sun rights for neighbors and building
From volume this investigation conclude:
From - A Zoning design this of investigation tool public can spaces be developed conclude: and/or future for the build purpose areas of can designing be part with of the sun sun rights in strategy mind
- It Using succeeds sun altitude in lowering as the shadow determining impact factor on neighboring is an easy and buildings reliable tool to decide between volume and sun
- A -
Design The design A design
final decisions building tool tool can can
needs be be
envelope developed
to be should taken for for
not the
to ensure be purpose
used a good as of
the designing with
relation final design sun
between sun rights
but as in
sun a template rights in mind mind for for neighbors the building and building
- It volume - It succeeds in lowering shadow impact on neighboring buildings
- Design Zoning decisions of public spaces needs to and/or be taken future to build ensure areas a good can relation be part between of the sun sun rights rights strategy for neighbors and building
- Design decisions needs to be taken to ensure a good relation between sun rights for neighbors and building volume
- Using volume sun altitude as the determining factor is an easy and reliable tool to decide between volume and sun
- The Zoning - Zoning
final of of
building public public spaces spaces
envelope and/or and/or
should future
not build
be used areas
as can
the be part
final of
design of the the sun
but sun rights
as rights strategy
a template strategy for the building
- Using - Using sun sun altitude as as the the determining factor is an easy and reliable tool to to decide between volume and and sun sun
- The - The final final building building envelope envelope should not be be used used as as the the final final design design but but as as a a template template for for the the building building
Digital Urban Simulation |
Final examination
Digital Urban Simulation |
Digital Urban Simulation |
Final examination
Final examination
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
17

Sources
Ralph L. Knowles:
The solar envelope - Its meaning for urban growth and form (2000)
Ralph L. Knowles:
The solar envelope - Its meaning for energy and buildings (2003)
Carlo Ratti, Eugenio Morello:
SunScapes: extending the ‘solar envelopes’ concept through ‘iso-solar surfaces’ (2005)
18
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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iA Architecture

New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
19

20
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
Information
iA Architecture

Shading our Cities:
A parametric approach
Student: Jack Kenning
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
21

Shading our Cities: a parametric approach
Jack Kenning
Figure 1: A proximity analysis based on the "closeness" to a selected site
Motivation
During the Digital Urban Simulation course, the main focus was placed on certain tools in the Rhino
Grasshopper parametric environment in order to better understand the urban setting that we live
Motivation and work in. From the different types of representation as you can see below, we based this analysis
on the built environment, dominated by a street network and individual building masses. From
these initial discoveries I soon realized that the role played by trees in an urban environment was
During being the largely Digital underestimated Urban Simulation and course, I soon wanted the main to focus look into was a placed better integration certain of tools them in the in the Rhino
Grasshopper process. parametric environment in order to better understand the urban setting that we live and
work in. From the different types of representation as you can see below, we based this analysis on
the built environment, dominated by a street network and individual building masses. From these initial
discoveries Creative Data I soon Mining realized | Spring that 2017 the | Final role played Projects by trees in an urban environment was being largely
underestimated and I soon wanted to look into a better integration of them in the process.
22
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Figure 2: Isovist Representation
Figure 3: Isovist Area Field Representation
Figure 2: Isovist Representation
Figure 3: Isovist Area Field Representation
Two major studies have already been done in relation to the benefits of trees in urban environments
Two and major the specific studies case have of already shading been and done
Two major studies have already been
these in
done
provided relation
in relation
a to
to
base the
the
point benefits
benefits
for my of trees
of trees
project: in urban environments
in urban environments
and the specific case of shading and these provided a base point for my project:
and the specific case of shading and these provided base point for my project:
Hypothesis & Research Questions
Hypothesis The project & takes Research for granted Questions that: "Shade trees on the south side of buildings lower summer-time
Hypothesis The
electricity
project
use
takes & by Research reducing
for granted
the Questions that:
need
"Shade
for air conditioning.”
trees on the south
This makes
side of
them
buildings
a powerful
lower summer-time
tool in urban
electricity
planning. The
use
questions
by reducing
that
the
we
need
raise
for
are:
air conditioning.” This makes them a powerful tool in urban
The planning. How project can we takes The accurately questions for granted model that that: we first raise “Shade the are: trees, trees then on the the south tree shadows? side of buildings lower summer-time
electricity use by reducing the need for air conditioning.” This makes them a powerful tool in urban
How From can there, we can accurately we predict model the first amount the trees, of energy then saved the tree by shadows? planting a tree?
planning. The questions that we raise are:
From For a given there, urban can we area, predict can the we easily amount identify of energy the places saved by where planting a tree a would tree? be of most benefit?
- How can we accurately model first the trees, then the tree shadows?
For a given urban area, can we easily identify the places where a tree would be of most benefit?
- From there, can we predict the amount of energy saved by planting a tree?
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
- For a given urban area, can we easily identify the places where a tree would be of most benefit?
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
23

Approach & Methods
Approach & Methods
The method consisted of first learning about the different tools available, sourcing the correct data and
The method consisted of first learning about the different tools available, sourcing the correct data
then
and
building
then building
and testing
and testing
a model
a model
that would
that would
accomplish
accomplish
the
the
task.
Approach & Methods
task.
The data collection was assisted by
the City of Zürich’s Open Database, which provides the positions of individual trees over the whole city,
totaling The method data
around
collection consisted 50 000
was
trees. of assisted first learning by the about City of the Zürich's different Open tools Database, available, which sourcing provides the the correct positions data
and of individual then building trees and over testing the whole a model city that - totaling would around accomplish 50 000 the trees. task.
The data collection was assisted by the City of Zürich's Open Database, which provides the positions
of individual trees over the whole city - totaling around 50 000 trees.
Figure 4: Zürich City Tree database
From the source, it was necessary to extract the raw data and integrate that into a Rhino 3D model
From the source, it was necessary to extract the raw data and integrate that into a Rhino 3D model
that would be the base for the study. Figure A 4: simple Zürich grasshopper City Tree database construct makes it possible to read the
that
data
would
file and
be the
to produce
base for
a
the
representation
study. A simple
of each
grasshopper
point on top
construct
of a city map.
makes it possible to read the
data From file the and source, to produce it was a necessary representation to extract of each the raw point data on and top integrate of a city that map. into a Rhino 3D model
that would be the base for the study. A simple grasshopper construct makes it possible to read the
data file and to produce a representation of each point on top of a city map.
Figure 5: Tree modelling
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Figure 5: Tree modelling
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
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The initial output was twofold: on the one hand the urban tree model and on the other the shadow
analysis for the buildings around the chosen site.
The initial output was twofold: on the one hand the urban tree model and on the other the shadow
analysis for the buildings around the chosen site.
The initial output was twofold: on the one hand the urban tree model and on the other the shadow
analysis for the buildings around the chosen site.
Figure 6: Urban tree model and building shadow analysis
In order to answer the research questions these methods had to be combined. In the end, the
In order to answer the research Figure 6: questions Urban tree these model methods and building had shadow to be analysis combined. In the end, the decision
decision was to focus on a small urban area and make a method which could be generalized to any
was to focus on a small urban area and make a method which could be generalized to any future
future In order research to answer site. the The research initial construct questions was these a simple methods urban had arrangement to be combined. over which In the a tree end, was the
research
constructed decision
site.
was
The
depending to focus
initial
on
construct
on a small certain urban
was
parameters.
a
area
simple
and
urban
This make consideration
arrangement
a method which was
over
could based
which
be on generalized
a
the
tree
fact
was
that
constructed
to any the
depending data future source research on also certain site. contained parameters. The initial for many construct This trees consideration was the a tree-type simple was urban and based the arrangement age on the of the fact over tree, that which the data a would tree source was be also
contained easy constructed to integrate for many depending trees a further on certain tree-type project. parameters. and the age This of consideration the tree, which was would based on be the easy fact to that integrate the in a
further data project. source also contained for many trees the tree-type and the age of the tree, which would be
easy to integrate in a further project.
Figure 7: Parametric urban tree model
Figure 7: Parametric urban tree model
This initial parametric model made it possible to move the tree around the specified area depending
on restrained coordinates. This was important in order to have sliders that the optimization
component This initial parametric could work model with. made it possible to move the tree around the specified area depending
This
on
initial
restrained
parametric
coordinates.
model made
This was
it possible
important
to move
in order
the
to
tree
have
around
sliders
the
that
specified
the optimization
area depending
on component restrained coordinates. could work with. This was important in order to have sliders that the optimization component
could work with.
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
25

Results & Discussion
The Results first visualizations & Discussion show the different measurements. By calculating the radiation on each facade
during The first the simulation, visualizations we show can easily the different see the measurements. affect that the presence By calculating of a the tree radiation has when on close each to the
buildings. facade during The drop the simulation, in this value we can when easily the see coordinates the affect that are the changed presence give of the a tree efficiency has when of close the tree’s
presence. to the buildings. The drop in this value when the coordinates are changed give the efficiency of the
tree's presence.
Figure 8: Radiation measurement
Figure 9: Visual output from radiation measuring and shadow casting
The next stage was to identify where the tree would be of most benefit. The Grasshopper integrated
optimizer uses a gene-trained fitness algorithm to maximize a certain input value. Therefore, here
The we next would stage like was to minimize to identify the where radiation the on tree facades would for be the of most summer benefit. months The while Grasshopper modifying integrated the
optimizer coordinates uses of a the gene-trained tree itself. fitness algorithm to maximize a certain input value. Therefore, here we
would like to minimize the radiation on facades for the summer months while modifying the coordinates
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
of the tree itself.
26
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Figure 10: The optimization process for finding the best position
Figure 10: The optimization process for finding the best position
The process runs unassisted until finding the best position for the tree, this being applicable on a
The The larger process scale, for runs more unassisted trees or until on a finding neighbourhood the best position scale.
for the tree, this being applicable on a larger
scale, larger for scale, more for trees more trees on a or neighbourhood on a neighbourhood scale. scale.
Conclusions
Conclusions
When going back to the initial research questions, we can gain some sense of how this tool can be
used When in going other back urban to projects the initial and research on different questions, scales. we We can can gain accurately some sense model of how first this the tool trees, can then be
Conclusions
the used tree in other shadows urban depending projects and on type on different and age scales. of tree We and can different accurately possible model modelling first the techniques. trees, then
From the tree there, shadows we can depending predict the on amount type and of age energy of tree saved and by different planting possible a tree as modelling a direct output techniques. of the
When From radiation
going there, levels
back we measured can to the predict initial
on the the
research amount facade of and
questions, energy for a given saved we
urban
can by planting gain
area,
some
we a tree can
sense
easily a direct of
identify
how output this
the
tool
places of the can be
used where radiation in other a tree levels urban would measured projects be of most on and the benefit on facade different using and for the scales. a galapagos given We urban can component. area, accurately we can model easily identify first the the trees, places then the
tree where shadows a tree depending would be of on most type benefit and age using of the tree galapagos and different component. possible modelling techniques. From
To develop the project at a later stage we can imagine further reduction of urban heat islands
there, we can predict the amount of energy saved by planting a tree as a direct output of the radiation
through To develop evapotranspiration the project at a or later on a stage city-scale, we can municipalities imagine further may soon reduction be using of urban a tool heat to measure islands
levels measured on the facade and for a given urban area, we can easily identify the places where a
through the benefits evapotranspiration and efficiency of or every on a tree city-scale, in order municipalities to invest where may necessary. soon be using a tool to measure
tree
the
would
benefits
be of
and
most
efficiency
benefit
of
using
every
the
tree
galapagos
in order to
component.
invest where
To
necessary.
develop the project at a later stage
we can imagine further reduction of urban heat islands through evapotranspiration or on a city-scale,
municipalities
References
may soon be using a tool to measure the benefits and efficiency of every tree in order to
invest References where necessary.
McPherson, E.G.; Simpson, J.R.; Peper, P.J.; Maco, S.E.; Xiao, Q. 2005. Municipal forest benefits and costs in
five McPherson, U.S. cities. E.G.; Journal Simpson, of Forestry. J.R.; Peper, 103(8): P.J.; 411-416. Maco, S.E.; Xiao, Q. 2005. Municipal forest benefits and costs in
five U.S. cities. Journal of Forestry. 103(8): 411-416.
Open Data Zürich [https://data.stadt-zuerich.ch]
Open Data Zürich [https://data.stadt-zuerich.ch]
McPherson, E.G.; Simpson, J.R.; Peper, P.J.; Maco, S.E.; Xiao, Q. 2005. Municipal forest benefits and costs in
Creative five U.S. Data cities. Mining Journal | Spring of Forestry. 2017103(8): | Final 411-416. Projects
Creative Data Mining | Spring 2017 | Final Projects
References
Open Data Zürich [https://data.stadt-zuerich.ch]
Figure 11: Optimized result for best-shade positioning
Figure 11: Optimized result for best-shade positioning
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
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Shading and Solar Irradiation
on a Cylindical Building
Student: Nicolas Zimmerman
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
29

1. Shading Summary: and Solar Irradiation on a Cylindrical Building
Name: Nicolas Zimmermann
The Date: analysis 15.05.2017 was done on a free standing cylindrical tower, the Schlotterbeck Areal apartment tower,
which is being erected on Badenerstrasse close to Albisriederplatz. As a thought experiment the
apartment 1. Summary: tower was converted into an office tower, which requires a comfortable day climate. This
means The anlysis that was the offices done on should a free not standing overheat cylindrical and the tower, sun should which is not beeing shine erected directly on into Badenerstrass the the computer close
to Albisriederplatz. Namely the Schlotterbeck Areal apartement tower.
screens. Due to the cylindrical shape of the building, the idea fell on a system which could track the sun
As a thought experimente the apartement tower was converted into an office tower in which a confortable
around day climat the is tower important. hit most Which stongly means by that direct the sunlight offices in should order not to best overheat shade and the the most sun intensively should not hit shine areas directly
the into facade. the the These computer areas screens. are also the most atractive for a pv facade system. This made it a given
of
to Due combine to the cylindrical the shading shape device of the with buildig, a PV the facade. idea fell Two on such a system systems which where could tested track the and sun compared around the on
tower to shade the area of the facade which is hit by the sun rays the strongest. Thes areas are also the most
how much radiation they can catch over a summer design day (21.07) and a winter design day (21.12).
atractive for a pv facade system. This made it a given to combine the shading device with a pv facade. Two
The such first systems system where is a trasparent tested and thin compared film screen on how moving much around radiation the they tower, can it catch is being over referred a summer to as design Thin
Film day (21.07) Facade and (TFF). a winter The desing second day system (21.12). is an array of Adabtive Solar Facade (ASF) panels, which is
also The first following system the is sun a trasparent around the thin building film screen but moving it can also around track the the tower, sun it verticaly. is beeing The refered ASF to is as a research Thin Film
Facade (TFF). The second system is a array of Adabtive Solar Facade (ASF) panels, which is also folowing
project by Prof. Arno Schlüter at the ETH Zurich, it consists out of small thin film PV panels. Which are
the sun around the building but it can also track the sun verticaly. The ASF is a research porject by Prof. Arno
able Schlüter to track at the the ETH sun Zurich, over three it consists axes. out Both of small facades thin provide film pv panels. shading Which and electricity. are able to track the sun over
three axes. Both facades provide shading and electricity.
Situation Schlotterbeck
Schlotterbeck Areal (Guiliani Höngger)
2. Motivation:
Since architecture will facing a lot of changes in the future in terms of the handling energy. This is due to the
goals of the swiss energy strategy 2050. I see a big possibility in ideas how to deal with facades. Especialy
Architecture in renovations will or face stacking a lot up of of changes city building, in the like future it is the in terms case here. of the These handling are chances energy. to This turn is protected due to the or
goals old still of valiable the swiss building energy structures strategy into 2050. well I performing see a big buildings. possibility But in ideas it means of how we have to deal to find with clever facades. and
Especially
apealing solutions
in renovations
in those
or
areas.
stacking
Like
up
this
of
we
city
can
building,
save the
like
embeded
is the case
gray
here.
energy
These
in the
are
old
chances
structure
to turn
and
turn the cities into modern energy saving and energy producing habitads.
protected
Additionaly
or
I was
old but
also
still
interested
viable building
of what can
structures
be done
into
with
well
the
performance
rader uncomen
buildings.
building
However
shape of the
it means
Tower
that of the we Schlotterbeck have to find clever Areal. What and appealing possibilities solutions dose a freestanding those areas. cylindrical Like this tower bring can save with the it and embedded then how
gray can we energy deal with in the two old problems structure of and a office turn tower, the cities shading into for modern comfort energy and electricity saving and consumption. energy producing
habitats. Digital Urban Additionally, Simulation I was | Final also examination interested of what can be done with the rather uncommon building
shape of the tower of the Schlotterbeck Areal. What possibilities does a freestanding cylindrical tower
bring with it and then how can we deal with two problems of an office tower, shading for comfort and
electricity consumption.
30
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This might lead to new practical Ideas for applying the ASF. This investigation, however, naturally comes
with many problems: like how does one actually get the electricity from a rotating facade in to the
Name: building Nicolas (basic Zimmermann
wiring problems).
Date: 15.05.2017
1. Analyses and Interpretation:
This Name: might Nicolas lead Zimmermann
to new practical Ideas for applaying the ASF. Even though the investigation, which is being
done Date: 15.05.2017
The Schlotterbeck
here would come
Areal
with
Tower
many
was
problems
selected
like
as
how
the
do
building
I actually
of
get
interest
the electricity
because
from
of its
a rotating
cylindrical
facade
shape
in
to the building (basic wiering problems).
and the fact that it is almost completely free standing. The solar irradiation across the facade of the
This 3. cylindrical Analyses might lead building and to Interpretation:
new was practical simulated. Ideas This for was applaying done the on a ASF. summer Even though design the day investigation, (21.07) and a which winter is design being
done After day (21.12). selecting here would
With the come
the Schlotterbeck help
with
of
many
the Areal results,
problems Tower the
like
width as how the of
do building the
I actually
shading of iteressest. get
device
the electricity
moving Because from
around of its a rotating cylindircal the facade
facade shape was
in
to and the the building fact tha (basic it is almost wiering completely problems). free standing. The solar iradiation across the facade of the cylindrical
decided.
building was simulated. This was done on a summer design day (21.07) and a wniter desing day (21.12).
3. With Analyses the help and of the Interpretation:
results, the width of the shading divice moving around the facade, was decided.
After selecting the Schlotterbeck Areal Tower as the building of iteressest. Because of its cylindircal shape
and
Summer
the
Design
fact tha
Day:
it is almost completely free standing. The solar iradiation across the facade of the cylindrical
building was simulated. This was done on a summer design day (21.07) and a wniter desing day (21.12).
With the help of the results, the width of the shading divice moving around the facade, was decided.
Summer Design Day:
Winter Design Day:
Winter Design Day:
The next step was then testing the two types of systems the TFF and the ASF.
The TFF is a continous screen of verticly orientated thin film pv moving around the building cylinder with the
path The next of the step sun. was It constantly then testing defuses the two the sun types light of of systems: the part of the the TFF facade and facing the ASF. the The sun. TFF Which is a also continous means
the screen the view of verticly out of orientated the offices would thin film be PV constantly moving blured. around the building cylinder with the path of the sun.
The Due next step was then testing the two types of systems the TFF and the ASF.
It constantly to its vericality defuses the amount sun light of sun of rays the caught part of decreases the facade with facing the the solar sun. altitude. Which But also it is means a nice big the and the
The even TFF surface. is a continous screen of verticly orientated thin film pv moving around the building cylinder with the
path view of out the of sun. the It offices constantly would defuses be constantly the sun light blurred. of the Due part to of its the verticality, facade facing the amount the sun. of Which sun rays also caught means
the decreases the view with out of the the solar offices altitude. would But be it constantly is a nice blured. big and even surface.
Due to its vericality the amount of sun rays caught decreases with the solar altitude. But it is a nice big and
even surface.
TFF Winter Design Day:
TFF Winter Design Day:
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
31

Name: Nicolas Zimmermann
Date: 15.05.2017
Thin Name: Film Nicolas PV Zimmermann Thin Film Facade (TFF)
Date: 15.05.2017
The ASF is a an arry of addaptive solar facade panels which can tilled in all direction and track the sun while
also moving around the building cylinder with the path of the sun over the day. The Addaptive Solar Facade,
is a research project by Arno Schlüter here at the ETH (not moving around a building). And comes with the
atvantage that the panals are allways orientated perpendicular to the sun. So it can harvest the maximum
amout of irradiation. And it is also possible to ajuste them manualy. So users of the office could create openings
ASF to have is a an unblocked array of adaptive view out solar side. facade panels, which can be tiled in all directions and track the
The
sun Due while to the also perpendicular moving around orientation the building to the sun cylinder the ASF with allways the harvests path of the maximum sun over possible the day. solar The irradiation.
But because it is split up in separate panels it has less surface area then the TFF.
Adaptive
Solar Facade is a research project by Arno Schlüter here at the ETH (though his research is not moving
around ASF Summer a building). Design Day: And comes with the advantage that the panals are always oriented perpendicularly
to the sun so it can harvest the maximum amout of irradiation. It is also possible to adjust them
Thin Film PV
Thin Film Facade (TFF)
manually so users of the office could create openings to have an unblocked view outside. Due to the
perpendicular The ASF is a an orientation arry of addaptive to the solar sun the facade ASF panels always which harvests can tilled the in maximum all direction possible and track solar the sun irradiation. while
also moving around the building cylinder with the path of the sun over the day. The Addaptive Solar Facade,
Because is a research it is split project up by in Arno separate Schlüter panels, here however, at the ETH it (not has moving less surface around area a building). then the And TFF. comes with the
ASF atvantage Winter Design that the Day: panals are allways orientated perpendicular to the sun. So it can harvest the maximum
amout of irradiation. And it is also possible to ajuste them manualy. So users of the office could create openings
to have an unblocked view out side.
Due to the perpendicular orientation to the sun the ASF allways harvests the maximum possible solar irradiation.
But because it is split up in separate panels it has less surface area then the TFF.
ASF Summer Design Day:
ASF Winter Design Day:
ASF Panel
Opening of ASF
ASF on Cylindrical Building
ASF Panel
Opening of ASF
ASF on Cylindrical Building
32
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
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4. Conclusion:
Name: Nicolas Zimmermann
If Date: the 15.05.2017 TFF and the ASF are compared in terms of the amount of solar irradiation captured. We see
that TFF is performing worse on a summer design day (21.07), with 524.36 kWh radiation compared
to 684.00kWh for the ASF. This is due to the fact that the sun is rising higher in the summer. The ASF
4. Conclusion:
can If the take TFF and advantage the ASF of are its compered ability to in track terms the of sun the amount vertically of while solar the irradiation TFF is captured. only a flat We vertical see that surface, TFF is
which performing only worse tracks on the a sun the around summer the design building day (21.07) cylinder. with But 524.36 over the kWh winter radiation design compared day (21.12) to 684.00kWh the TFF is
performing the ASF. better. This is due Capturing to the fact 117.10kWh that the sun compared is rising to higher the ASF in the with summer. only 34.70Wh The ASF captured can take advantage radiation.
of its ability to track the sun vertically while the TFF is only a flat vertical surface which just tracks the sun
In this case the TFF has the advantage that it has the bigger surface with 636m2 against 404m2 of
around the building cylinder.
the But ASF. over the This winter is due design to the day fact (21.12) that the TFF sun is has performing a lower better. path in Capturing winter, which 117.10kWh means compared it shines to more the
horizontally ASF with only in to 34.70Wh the big captured surface of radiation. the TFF In and this the case additional the TFF tracking has the of advantage the ASF that doesn’t it has make the bigger up for
the surface smaller with surface 636m2 against of it. Additional 404m2 of analysis the ASF. would This is have due to to the be fact done that in the terms sun has of how a lower the path two in facades winter.
Which means it shines more horizontally in to the big surface of the TFF and the additional tracking of the
perform over a whole year to actually decide which one would be capturing more solar irradiation. The
ASF doesn’t make up for the smaller surface of it.
actual Additional shading analysis effect would should have also to be be done tested, in terms as well how and the two how facade much perform it would over reduce a whole the cooling year to actually
decide thereby which enhance one would the performance be capturing of more the building. solar irradiation. In general Plus this the study actual shows shading us effect that should there are be
load
and
possibilities tested as well to and be how creative much in it terms would of be facade reduce shading. the cooling load and there by enhance the performance of
the building.
In general this study shows us that there are possibilities to be creative in terms of facade shading.
Comparision:
TFF TFF ASF ASF
Radiation 524.36 kWh 117.10 kWh 684.00 kWh 34.70 kWh
Area
TFF: Thin Film Facade
636 m2 404 m2
ASF: Adaptive Solar Facade
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
33

Name: Nicolas Zimmermann
Date: 15.05.2017
5. Appendix:
Complet Grasshopper Definition
Definition ASF
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Follow the Path of the Sun
Student: Thomas Wüthrich
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
37

Traugott Wahlen Park
Name: Thomas Wüthrich
Date: 15.05.2017
1. Project Description:
1. Project description
FOLLOW THE PATH OF THE SUN
Traugott Wahlen Park
Name:
Date:
Thomas Wüthrich
15.05.2017
1. Project description
Aerial view of Neu Oerlikon
Shading and PV production installation
Due to warmer temperatures during the summertime the importance of shading devices will increase. The
Traugott Wahlen park in Zürich Oerlikon is characterized by an open field with a very tiny installation that
provides a little bit of shading. Due to the north south orientation of the park and the soccer field a possible
Due shading to warmer installation temperatures could be combined during the with summertime the production the of importance eletrical energy of shading with solar devices panels. will The increase. panels
could be mounted on steel wires spanned from one building to the other in north-south direction. Each panel
The Traugott Wahlen park in Zürich Oerlikon is characterized by an open field with a very tiny installation
can be adjusted to the sun angle and can track the sun in one axis. Due to the almost perfect north south
that orientation provides such just a tracking a little bit system of shading. could lead Due to to a the quite north high south efficiency orientation of the overall of the system. park and the soccer
field Aerial a possible view of Neu shading Oerlikon installation could be combined Shading with and the PV production of installation electrical energy with
solar The shading panels. system The panels provides could shading be mounted during summer on steel and wires winter. spanned The obvious from one problems building PV to the production other in in a
combination with shading are not entirely solved. During winter one could think about using only a certain
north Due south to warmer direction. temperatures Each panel during can the be summertime adjusted to the the importance sun angle of shading and can devices track the will increase. sun one The axis.
percentage
Traugott Wahlen
of the panels
park in
to
Zürich
let some
Oerlikon
light
is
through
characterized
or to prevent
by an open
snow
field
accumulation
with a very tiny
of the
installation
panels.
that
Finally
Due it is provides about to the a almost tradeoff perfect
little bit of between north
shading. maximal south
Due to the solar orientation
north power south and such
orientation shading. a tracking
of One the park has system to and take could
the into lead
soccer account to a
field a possible that quite during high
efficiency wintertime shading of installation the the demand overall could for system. electricity be combined The is shading high with and the system all production the panels provides of eletrical should shading operate. energy during with Despite solar summer panels. those and disadvantages
The winter. panels The
obvious the could setup be problems was mounted chosen PV on production to steel learn wires more spanned in about combination from the Shadow one with building shading range to the analysis. are other not in north-south entirely solved. direction. During Each winter panel one
can be adjusted to the sun angle and can track the sun in one axis. Due to the almost perfect north south
could think about using only a certain percentage of the panels to let some light through or to prevent
In the orientation analysis, such I connected a tracking the system incident could solar lead vector a quite with high the efficiency tilt angle of the overall panels system. in order to get the maximal
efficiency accumulation of those of panels. the panels. Finally it is about a tradeoff between maximal solar power and
snow
shading. The shading One has system to take provides into shading account during that during summer the and wintertime winter. The the obvious demand problems for electricity PV production is high in and
all the
combination
panels should
with shading
operate.
are
Despite
not entirely
those
solved.
disadvantages
During winter
the
one
setup
could
was
think
chosen
about using
to learn
only
more
a certain
about
percentage of the panels to let some light through or to prevent snow accumulation of the panels. Finally
the Train it Shadow is station about Seebach a range tradeoff analysis. between In maximal the analysis, solar power I connected and shading. the incident One has solar to take vector into account with the
source: that tilt
google during angle of
maps
the wintertime panels in the order demand to get for the electricity maximal is high efficiency and all the of those panels panels. should operate. Despite those disadvantages
the setup was chosen to learn more about the Shadow range analysis.
In the analysis, I connected the incident solar vector with the tilt angle of the panels in order to get the maximal
angle efficiency mechanism of those Tilt panels.
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Project
Train station Seebach
source: google maps
Tilt angle mechanism
38
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Project
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2. Motivation and Tools
The main motivation to work on this idea is the aim to gain a deeper understanding of the Ladybug
component and its possible applications. PV-Production installations become more often used in the
Urban context and play an important role. With the help of the analysis tool the design of the shading and
pv production installation will be improved and tested and a critical discussion of the used tool should
help 2. to Motivation understand and its potential. Tools The goal of this project was to create a model with the possibility to
have a parametric and therefore adjustable geometry of the combined solar pv and shading installation
that The is instantly main motivation connected to work to on the this radiation idea is the analysis. aim to gain This a should deeper understanding enable the user of the to Ladybug set the optimal
component and its possible applications. PV-Production installations become more often used in the
parameters fot the installation.The challenge is to set up an hourly simulation with data recording due
Name: Urban context and play an important role. With the help of the analyisis tool the design of the shading
to the
Date: and fact pv production that the panels installation track will the be sun improved in one and axis. tested For that and a reason critical every discussion hour of has the to used be simulated tool in
order should to get help sufficient to understand results. its potential.
The goal of this project was to create a model with the possibility to have a parametric and therefore
adjustable geometry of the combined solar pv and shading installation that is instantly connected to
the radiation analysis. This should enable the user to set the optimal parameters fot the installation.The
challenge is to set up an hourly simulation with data recording due to the fact that the panels track the
sun in one axis. For that reason every hour of the has to be simulated in order to get sufficient results.
3. Analysis and Interpretation
3.1 Analysis Setup and Grasshopper Definition
3. Analysis and Interpretation
In the following graph one can see the basic grasshopper setup for the model. The different components
3.1 Analysis Setup and Grasshopper Definition
and interactions will be explained on the following page.
In the following graph one can see the basic grasshopper setup for the model. The different components and
interactions will be explained on the following page.
1 2
3
7
4
8
5
6
Grasshopper Definition
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
39

1. The improved parametric geometry of the panels that is spanned between two curves. Parameters: Dimensions of
the panel, number of panels, distance between panels, height above ground of the installation.
2. Simple Geometry for simple calculations. Parameters: number of panels, distance between panels.
3. Solar altitude angle conversion
4. Solar path component
5. Main control panel. Parameters: Hours of the year, summer design week, winter design week, design day
6. Radiation Analysis with Results. Parameters: Grid size
7. Mesh of the panels connected to calculate the kWh/m2 solar radiation
1. The improved parametric geometry of the panels that is spanned between two curves.
8. Input Geometry:
Parameters:
Parametric
Dimensions
panels
of the panel, number of panels, distance between panels, height above
Name: ground of the installation.
Date: 2. Simple Geometry for simple calculations. Parameters: number of panels, distance between panels.
3. Solar altitude angle conversion
4. Solar path component
5. Main control panel.
Parameters: Hours of the year, summer design week, winter design week, design day
6. Radiation Analysis with Results. Parameters: Grid size
3.2 Analysis and Results
Analysis 1_Flat surface vs Tracking
7.
Mesh of the panels connected to calculate the kWh/m2 solar radiation
In the following 8. Input graph Geometry: one can Parametric see the panels basic grasshopper setup for the model. The different components
and interactions will be explained on the following page. The first analysis deals with the advantages
3.2 Analysis and Results
of a PV system that tracks the sun in one axis. The solar altitude angle can be taken into account. It is
no problem Analysis to execute 1_Flat a surface static annual vs Tracking simulation with the Ladybug component for a horizontal surface.
When it comes to solar tracking an hourly simlation has to be set up. The hourly radiation is linked to
The first Analysis deals with the advantages of a PV system that tracks the sun in one axis. The solar altitude
the solar angle altitude can angle be taken and into with account. an animated It is no problem slider to that execute induces a static a annual measurement simulation with every the Ladybug hour of the year
component for a horizontal surface. When it comes to solar tracking an hourly simlation has to be set up. The
can be simulated with its respective tilt angle of the panels. The main problem is the overall calculation
hourly radiation is liked to the solar altitude angle and with an animated slider that induces a measurement
duration of every this hour process. of the year With can the be simulated help of with a data its respectiv recorder tilt angle the results of the panels. can be The summed main problem up is to the get to the
overall calculation duration of this process. With the help of a data recorder the results can be summed up
total annual radiation on the given panel for the case of solar tracking in one axis.
to get to the total annual radiation on the given panel for the case of solar tracking in one axis.
Results Example Radiation hour 4000
Because of the fact that the model is not calibrated the values are difficult to prove. The annual simulation for
each hour of the year shows that the tracking results in an improvement of the yield by only 3 percent. If we
compare those values with the literature up to 30 % should be possible. It is difficult and quite time consuming
to figure out if the results can be correct or if the model is not well calibrated. The tracking is more efficient
in Winter. The tracking is related to the solar altitude. Especially in the Morning and the evening the horizontal
surface would have a higher yield because of the way the angle is measured. The closer to noon the more
accurate is the tracking. The total annual electricity productions is equivalent to the electricity demand of 120
households over one year. Of course storage options have to be taken into account. But close to the site
an energy company from Zürich built up the biggest battery for electricity storage purposes in switzerland.
Because of the fact that the model is not calibrated the values are difficult to prove. The annual simulation
for each hour of the year shows that the tracking results in an improvement of the yield by only 3 percent.
If we compare those values with the literature up to 30 % should be possible. It is difficult and quite time
consuming to figure out if the results can be correct or if the model is not well calibrated. The tracking
is more efficient in Winter. The tracking is related to the solar altitude. Especially in the Morning and the
evening the horizontal surface would have a higher yield because of the way the angle is measured. The
closer to noon the more accurate is the tracking. The total annual electricity productions is equivalent
to the electricity demand of 120 households over one year. Of course storage options have to be taken
into account. But close to the site an energy company from Zürich built up the biggest battery for
electricity storage purposes in Switzerland.
40
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Analysis 2_Optimal Distance between the panels
There exists a trade-off between the provided shade of the self-shading device and lowering of
the efficiency of each panel and the total amount of panels that can be installed. This is a complex
optimization problem. With the simple geometry 6 distances between two panels were tested in order
to get the hightest total radiation. To simplify the calculation task a design day in June with 24 hours
was used. The results are listed below:
1.13 m distance => 135.63 kWh/geometry (110m2)
1.71 Analysis m distance 2_Optimal => 155.63 Distance kWh/geometry between (110m2) the panels
1.38 m distance => 150.50 kWh/geometry (110m2)
2.00 There m distance exists a trade-off => 156.52 between kWh/geometry the provided (110m2) shade the self-shading and lowering of the efficiency of each
Name: panel and the total amount of panels that can be installed. This is a complex optimization problem. With the
2.68 Date: simple m distance geometry => 6 158.52 distances kWh/geometry between two panels (110m2) were tested in order to get the hightest total radiation.
To simplify the calculation task a design day in June with 24 hours was used. The results are listed below:
1.13 m distance => 135.63 kWh/geometry (110m2)
In order 1.71 m to distance fit quite => a lot 155.63 of panels kWh/geometry a distance (110m2) between 1.5 and 2 m should be used. Below a series of
hours 1.38 is m listed. distance The => panel 150.50 in the kWh/geometry middle is not (110m2) active. The first panel is the context and thelast one is the
geometry 2.00 m with distance the => solar 156.52 radiation kWh/geometry on it. (110m2)
2.68 m distance => 158.52 kWh/geometry (110m2)
In order to fit quite a lot of panels a distance between 1.5 and 2 m should be used.
Below a series of hours is listed. The panel in the middle is not active. The first panel is the context and thelast
one is the geometry with the solar radiation on it.
Design Day 21 st of June
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
41

Analyisis 3_Variant study of appealing shapes of the installation
In Analyisis order to find 3_Variant a pleasing study architectural of appealing shape shapes of the of installation the installation the geometry was modelled in a
parametrically and can be adjusted. Parameters that can be adjusted are: Width of the panels; number
In order to find a pleasing architectural shape of the installation the geometry was modelled in a parametric
of
Name:
panels; distance between the panels; height above ground of the whole installation. The outer border
way and can be adjusted. Parameters that can be adjusted are: Width of the panels; number of panels; distance
the surface between that the can panels; be set height wherever above ground it needs of to the be hole is slightly installation. curved The outer and adapted border of to the the surface surrounding that
of Date:
buildings. can be set Finally wherever a version it needs with to be 60 it panels is slightly and curved a distance and adapted of 2 meters to the surrounding between them buildings. seems Finally to a be a
version with 60 panels and a distance of 2 meter between them seems to be a good solution.
good solution.
Version A 40 panels
Version B 60 panels
4. 4. Conclusion
In order to to a scientific analysis it is crucial to understand the model in detail. Therefore it is crucial to calibrate
order the to do model a scientific and compare analysis with it real is crucial parameters to understand check possible the model mistakes. in detail. Nevertheless Therefore it it is is a crucial great to
In
calibrate tool to work the model with. The and following compare points with need real to parameters be taken into and account: check possible mistakes. Nevertheless it is
a great -Tracking tool 1 to Axis work (Literature with. The +30%) following points need to be taken into account:
-Tracking 2 Axis (Literature +45%)
-Model has to be calibrated (compared with real values)
-Tracking 1 Axis (Literature +30%)
-Calculation power is crucial to get more detailed results
-Tracking 2 Axis (Literature +45%)
Concerning -Model has to the be installation calibrated itself: (compared with real values)
-Calculation power is crucial to get more detailed results
-There will always be a tradeoff between Sunlight and PV-Production
-Snow coverage in Winter might be a problem
Concerning -The East-West the installation orientation of itself: the system has to be analysed as well in a further step
Nevertheless the tool provides a good option to combine simple engieneering tasks with the possibility to
generate -There will variable always architectonical be a tradeoff between solutions. Sunlight Such and installations PV-Production have to be accepted by the public and therefore
-Snow this coverage interconnection Winter between might be engineering a problem and architecture is crucial. Therefore grasshopper enables the
user to generate different options once the model is set up.
-The East-West orientation of the system has to be analysed as well in a further step
The tool nevertheless provides a good option to combine simple engieneering tasks with the possibility
to generate variable architectonical solutions. Such installations have to be accepted by the public and
therefore this interconnection between engineering and architecture is crucial. Therefore grasshopper
enables the user to generate different options once the model is set up.
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5. Annex
5. Annex
Name:
Date:
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
43

44
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Infinite Isovist
Student: Ludovic Regnault
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
45

1. Summary :
Infinite Isovist
The goal of this project is to develop a general tool helping to analyse the field of view when the view
is not totally enclosed by a geometry. We will call the view stopped by a geometry “stopped vew”, and
Name: Ludovic Regnault
the view
Date: 15/05/2017
nonstopped “infinite view”. It can, for example, be used to analyse the view in a room by the
window. More preciesly the goal is to compute the proportion between the stopped view and the infinite
view. Also the goal is to calculate the angle the infinite view, it’s number of parts (when a geometry cut
1. Summary :
the field) and the average angle of each part. The isovists will be calculated on a point moving on a way
The goal of this project is to developp a general tool helping to analyse the field of view when the view is not
with
totally
a certain
closed
angle
by a geometry.
of vision. The
We will
results
call
will
the
be
view
showed
stopped
graphically
by a geometry
and numerically.
“stopped vew”, and the view nonstopped
“infinite view”.
For example it can be used to analyse the view in a room by the window. More preciesly the goal is to compute
2. the Motivation proportion between : the stopped view and the infinite view. Also the goal is to calculate the angle the infinite
view, it’s number of parts (when a geometry cut the field) and the average angle of each part. The isovists
will be calculated on a point moving on a way with a certain angle of vision. The results will be showed graphically
and numerically.
This idea comes from the fact that the interest of a view in an urban context is often linked to its openings
looking outwards to far distances. It is also related to buildings which are oriented to a landscape view.
2. Motivation :
This idea comes from the fact that the interest of a view in an urban context is often linked to it’s oppening to
3. far Setting distances. of It the is also definition related to buildings : which are oriented to a landscape view.
3. Setting of the definition :
Setting of the moving vector
on the way
Projection of lines on the
right and left of the vector,
respecting the demanded
angle of view.
When the angle of view
is changed, the number
of lines is automatically
recalculated to fit with the
demanded resolution
Digital Urban Simulation | Final examination
46
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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iA Architecture

Infinite Isovist
Name:
Date:
Ludovic Regnault
15/05/2017
Use of the component Isovist
rays to compute them
on each line
Selecting the infinite
views by measuring equality
between the radius and
the distance of the isovists
points
Creating an isovist surface
display a color on the surface
corresponding to the
percentage of infinite view
Calculation and display of
the total angle of infinite
view
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
47

Infinite Isovist
Name:
Date:
Ludovic Regnault
15/05/2017
Calculation of the number
of infinite view-parts
by measuring how much
time it changes from infinite
view to stopped view.
Calculation and display
of the number of infinite
view-parts and their average
view-angle.
Overview of the definition.
The tool is ready !
4.Examples
Here are three examples to see how the tool works and to understand its potential.
48
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Infinite Isovist
4.Examples
Here are three examples to see how the tool works and to understand its potential.
Name: Ludovic Regnault
Date: 15/05/2017
Here is a succession of frames shaping a view on a landscape for example. At the begining the view is very
Here is a succession of frames shaping a view on a landscape for example. At the begining the view is
small and while moving on the way, the view is more and more wide.
very small and while moving on the way, the view is more and more wide.
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
49

Infinite Isovist
Name:
Date:
Ludovic Regnault
15/05/2017
This example feature a lot of little obstacles which cut the infinite view in many parts. In this particular case the
average view-angle of each part seems to be related to the number of parts.
This example features a lot of little obstacles, which cut the infinite view in many parts. In this particular
case the average view-angle of each part seems to be related to the number of parts.
50
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
Chair of
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iA Architecture

Infinite Isovist
Name:
Date:
Ludovic Regnault
15/05/2017
Finally this example shows the evolution of views by the windows of a building.
Finally this example shows the evolution of views by the windows of a building. In the end this tool
In the end this tool is fitting the necessity of analysing the long-distance views, the views from the inside to
is fitting the outside, the necessity and the views of analysing projected to the a landscape. long-distance It allows views, to analyse the views the proportion from the of inside infinite to view the and outside, it’s
and fragmentation. the views projected to a landscape. It allows to analyse the proportion of infinite view and its
fragmentation.

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Sanlitun Taikooli
Student: Zhe Dong
New Methods in Urban Analysis and Simulation | Final project documentation
53

Sanlitun Taikooli
A - Summery and Motivation
Sanlitun A - Summery Taikooli is one and of Motivation
the most successful commercial buildings in Beijing. It is located between
Beijing’s Second Ring Road and Third Ring Road and consists of 19 low density buildings. Sanlitun
Sanlitun Taikooli is one of the most successful commercial buildings in Beijing. It is located between Beijing's
Taikooli
Second
is
Ring
divided
Road
in
and
to north
Third Ring
and
Road
south
and
two
consists
areas.
of
This
19 low
opening
density buildings.
type of architectural
Sanlitun Taikooli
group
is divided
is no
in
more
than to 4 north storeys. and south two areas. This opening type of architechtural group is no more than 4 storeys.
The main concerns about the design of a commercial area is how to attract more consumers. The following
The main concerns about the design of a commercial area is how to attract more consumers. The
aspects are crucial elements for commercial design
following aspects are crucial elements for commercial design:
1. Location: is the place convenient to reach by walk and vehicle?( Integration-high integration shows a
space 1. Location to be : a is highly the place desired convenient destination) to reach by walk and vehicle? ( Integration-high integration shows a space to be a
highly desired destination)
2. Entrance : is the location of entrance correspond to the street situation ? (Choice) the entrance should
be put toward more popular street (shortest path)
2. Entrance : Does the location of the entrance correspond to the street situation ? (Choice) the entrance should be put
3. toward Function more popular layout street :(shortest hotel, cinema path) ,super market are suitable to lay in the corner ( relative low
integration), while retail activities should be placed in more lively area (relative high integration).
3. Function layout : hotels, cinemas, and supermarkets are suitable to layout in the corner ( relative low integration), while
4. retail Visibility: activities should too compact be placed layout in a more will decrease lively area the (relative visibility. high Fancy integration). facade, attractive labels, posters and
infrastructures will attract more customers to certain places.
4. Visibility : too compact layouts will decrease visibility. Fancy facades, attractive labels, posters and infrastructures will
5. Microclimate: comfortable environment will contribute to more customers.
attract more customers to certain places.
According 5. Microclimate: to these comfortable aspects, I environment will analysis will why contribute this commercial to more area customers. is a success with respect to space syntax,
and the reasons for remaining questions, such as:
According to these aspects, I will analyse why this commercial area is a success with respect to space
- Why is the north area less active than the south one?
syntax, - Why and is there the a reasons big decrease for remaining of customer questions, flow in winter? such as:
And - Why the is possible the north methods area less to active improve than realistic the south situation. one?
- Why is there a big decrease of customer flow in winter?
- possible methods to improve realistic situation.
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation

B - Location and entrance
tion and entrance
Segment analysis-Choice, Integration
Segment analysis-Choice, Integration
nalysis-Choice, The segment Integration analysis choice and integration show both the high potential of to-movement and throughmovement.
Especially the south side of the area, that is located directly to the main street Workers' Stadium
nt analysis The choice and integration show both the high potential of to-movement and through-
Road.
segment
This is
analysis
reflected in
choice
the consumers
and integration
flow. Large
show
quantity
both
of
the
people
high
choose
potential
to enter
of to-movement
the whole area
and
through
throughmovement.
the south side of the area, that is located directly to the main street Workers' Stadium
Especially
the south side. Especially on the south side of the area that is located directly to the main street Workers’
is reflected in the consumers flow. Large quantity of people choose to enter the whole area through
Stadium Road. This is reflected in the consumers flow. A large quantity of people choose to enter the
de.
whole area through the south side.
1. I select the center of this shopping mall
as the starting point
1. I select the center of this shopping mall
1. I select as the the center starting of point this shopping
2. The
mall
red area
as the
has
starting
high accessibility
point
to the
2. The red area has high accessibility shopping to the mall shopping by foot mall by foot
2. The red area has high accessibility to the
3. I choose
shopping
the bus
mall
stations
by foot
and subway stations within this area and two
3. I choose the bus stations and subway
really important subway stations stations nearby. within this area and two really
3. I choose the bus stations important and subway stations nearby.
stations within this area and two really
important subway stations 5,6,7,8,9 5,6,7,8,9 nearby. Bus stations Bus stations
2,3,4 Subway 2,3,4 stations Subway of stations Line 6,10 of Line 6,10
5,6,7,8,9 Bus stations 0,1 Subway stations of Line2 (big stations
2,3,4 Subway stations
0,1 Subway
of Line 6,10
stations of Line2
with large quantity of passengers)
0,1 Subway (big stations with of Line2 large (big quantity stations of passengers)
with large quantity of passengers) 4. With 5 bus lines and 3 subways it is
quite easy to reach the location within
4. With 5 bus 4. With lines 5 and bus 3 lines subways and 15-minutes- 3 it subways is quite walk. easy it is to reach the location within
15-minutes- quite walk. easy to reach the location within
15-minutes- walk.
Catchment analysis- Accessibility by walking
To determine the neighbourhood area within 15 minutes / 1.2km walk
analysis- Accessibility by walking
the neighbourhood Catchment area within analysis- 15 minutes / 1.2km Accessibility walk by walking
To To determine the how neighbourhood close a location area is within to any 15 of minutes attraction / points. 1.2km walk In this case it means how convenient can
people arrive from Sanlitun to any station.
e how close a location is to any of attraction points. In this case it means how convenient can
e from Sanlitun To determine to any station. how close a location is to any attraction points, in this case it means how conveniently
I determine the importance of each bus station by the number of bus arrives there. And because subway can
people can arrive from Sanlitun to any station, I determined the importance of each bus station by
carry more passengers , point 3,4 has the highest importance. Point 0,1,2 also has big flow of people, but they
the importance the of each station by number of bus arrives there. And because subway can
are
number
all beyond
of
the
bus
15-minutes-walk
arrivals there.
circle,
Because
so their
subways
importance
can
are
carry
less.
more passengers, point 3 and 4 has
passengers the , highest point 3,4 importance. has the highest Point importance. 0, 1, 2 Point also 0,1,2 have also significan has big flows of of people, people, but they but they are all beyond the
nd the 15-minutes-walk circle, so their importance are less.
15-minutes-walk circle, so their importance are less.
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation

Vicinity-Integration
Vicinity-Integration
As
As
the
the
result
result
shows,
shows,
Sanlitun
Sanlitun
has
has
quite
quite
high
high
integration
integration (
red
red
colour),
colour),
which
which
suggests
suggests
this
this
area
area
to
to
be
be a
highly
highly
desired
desired
destination
destination
according
according
to
to
the
the
public
public
traffic
traffic
situation.
situation.
In
In
detail,
detail,
the
the
east
east
side
side
shows
shows
higher
higher
integration
integration
then
then
the
the
west
west
side.
side.
The real situation confirms the results of analysis. High integration show more changes of social encounter. An
The interesting
real situation phenomenon
confirms is the
the photographers.
results of They
analysis. wait in
High the southeast
integration side
shows of the shopping
more exchanges mall for fashion
of social
icons to walk by.
encounters. An interesting phenomenon is the photographers. They wait in the southeast side of the
shopping mall for fashion icons to walk by. As the last part of analysis shows, the south has a better
location C - South as the and north. North What are the others that make the south more attractive?
As the last part of analysis shows, the south has a better location as the north. What are the others that make
My hypotheses are:
the south more attractive?
1. The layout of functions is more reasonable in the south site.
My hypotheses are:
1. The 2. The layout square of functions of the south is more site enables reasonable a better in the visibility south and site. connects directly to the main entrance.
2. The square of the south site enables a better visibility and connects directly to the main entrance.
High integration
Middle integration
Low integration
Customer flow quantity
large
middle
small
Commercial activities
retail
restaurant, leisure, salon
hotel, cinema, supermarket, department store
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation

Bookstore
Teahouse
Axial analysis-Choice, Integration
South Area
The functional layout of the south site corresponds well with the different integration degree. The retail shops
are around the square, while bookstore and teahouse lay in the corner and the 4th storey.
Gallery √
Hotel ×
Axial analysis-Choice, Integration
North Area
But the situation in the north site is not so ideal. A large hotel sits in the area of the highest integration. And the
retails shop that are highly depended on customer flow are located in less attractive places.That will decrease
the potential of economic activities.
And hypothsis 1 is confirmed.

A
B
Isovist field analysis- Isovist area
Both sites show higher isovist
area in the open square
Compared to the south site, the
active open sapce is less closely
connected to the main entrance.
It is more connected to entrance
B, which means to enter the
site through the south area is
a possible way to increase the
customer flow in the north.
Connectivity- Reality
In reality, the situation is more severe.
The left street is taken up by stalls, while
the right street is used for car parking.
Also the three individual buildings block
the vision.
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation

Connectivity- Compare
a- Regulation the left street, make it wider
b- Remove the parking spot
c- Reorganize the functional layout of north area
These three measures increase the connectivity between the two sites. That can lead more people from south
site to the north and make full use of the high integration place in the north area. Moving the hotel to the corner
and reorganize the functional layout are going to cost too much investment, so maybe the first two measures
are more realistic.
The opening type of space applies more possility to improve the customer flow through the improvement of the
surrounding rather than an utter change in the shopping area. So this new mode of shopping centre is more
flexible than traditional department store.

D - Shadow and Solar radiation
the Summer Solstice 10:00-14:00 the Winter Solstice 10:00-14:00
the Summer Solstice
the Winter Solstice
The situation in both summer and winter is pretty severe, since the microclimate in open space is much harder
to control than the closed building envelop. In summer most of the squares can not be covered by shadow, in
The winter situation only small in both area can summer receive and sunlight. winter Beijing is pretty can reach severe, 40 degree since the in sommer microclimate and -15 degree in open in spaces winter, are
much that may harder cause to a sharp control decrease than the of flow. closed building envelope. In summer most of the squares can not
be covered by shadow, in winter only small area can receive sunlight. Beijing can reach 40 degrees
centigrade In reality, there in summer is a fountain and -15 in the degrees square, centigrade which people in winter, can walk which through may and contribute play inbetween. to a sharp Also spray decrease
of
devices
flow. In
are
reality,
used
there
to cool
is
down
a fountain
the outdoor
in the
climate.
square,
However
which
in
people
winter
can
there
walk
is no
through
efficient
and
method
play
to
inbetween.
keep
people warm outdoor. So the decrease is more severe in winter than in summer
Also spray devices are used to cool down the outdoor climate. However in winter there is no efficient
method to keep people warm outdoors. So the decrease is more severe in winter than in summer.
Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation

Digital Urban Simulation | Final Documentation
Conclusion:
E - Conclusion
I I choose this case to to analysis analyse because in reality in reality the the architects architects also apply also apply digital digital simulations simulations to predict to the predict
the wind wind and and solar solar situation situation, and visibility as well situation as the in visibility the whole situation area. Then in they whole adjust area. the angle Then of they facade, adjust the
angle the entrance of the facade, and the windows the entrance to achieve and the best windows result by to balancing achieve all the aspects. best result That by means balancing the methods all aspects. of
That
digital
means
urban simulation
the methods
are step
of digital
by step
urban
used
simulation
in the design
are
process
step
and
by step
quatify
used
the result
in the
of
design
design.
process
This will
and
help designers to balance the invest and produce, then make more rational decisions.
quantify the result of design. This will help designers to balance the investment and production, leading
them to make more rational decisions.
Zhe Dong
16-949-257

Chair of
Information
Architecture