Thesis Abstract: Dynamic Architecture Systems through Biomimicry

By:Ken Howder

This thesis revolves around an implied relationship between biomimicry and computer science within the architecture field.  While some may consider using natural shapes and forms to be an ideal aesthetic appearance for buildings, this proposal will not venture into aesthetics through biomimicry.  Instead, the focus will adhere to biological systems that may prove to be effective and efficient within the built environment.  Systems such as skin, bone, and blood flow within the human body can mimic certain systems within a building to produce more sustainable aspects and allow for the occupant, the building, and the environment to coalesce into a harmonious and effective system.  However, mimicking the brain of an organism that controls all of the systems within an organism is not an easy task to accomplish within stand-alone systems.  This thesis also proposes the use of computers and possible artificial intelligence to reproduce the same effect as a brain for a building.

            Technology and knowledge of living systems can influence the building professions toward more sustainable spaces.  Using computers and biomimicry as a model for architectural design, it may be possible to achieve buildings that can adapt to their surroundings through the use of self-shading. Ventilating, and energy producing systems.  With this foundational idea, the typical organism has shown to possess dynamic attributes that change and adapt according to the surrounding environment as well as the internal conditions within the organism.  Due to the scope of the environment that humans have modified, it might be considered ideal for these built environments to mimic systems that work more effectively and efficiently – systems such as skin, gills, pores, etc.  Combining computer science with modern materials to form similar systems within buildings may be an ideal direction to take architectural design.

            The processes proposed within this thesis will be used to impact the design and functions within a sustainable featured hotel.  A hotel may produce an ideal atmosphere to test a multi-occupant building for this project.  Occupant comfort is of the upmost importance within such an atmosphere, and the sustainable features can potentially be used within a broad range of architectural projects – including residential homes and commercial offices.  By mimicking several elements found within nature, the proposed hotel will respond to needed comforts within the inhabited area and adapt to produce such an atmosphere, but it will also take environmental conditions into account to produce a more sustainable building.