KINETIC ARCHITECTURE : THE ROLE OF JOINTS IN THE DESIGN OF SPACE AND STRUCTURE

Abstract

The kinetic joint is a specific architectonic element that is responsible for the characteristic flexible quality that kinetic structures have. Borrowing the idea of the common joint in architecture's tectonic tradition where joints are seen as the generator of form rather than the plan, the dissertation analyses how kinetic joints affect the larger whole and how it becomes the expression of the moving mechanism in kinetic structures. Its significance shall be illustrated by charting the issues the joint has addressed in traditional architecture and kinetic specific works, discussing the design and technological development of the kinetic joint at each stage.

The dissertation recognises that kinetic architecture is currently in its prototype stage and looks into the difficulties and feasibility issues of implementing kinetic systems in terms of its joints. In order for kinetic systems to be applied beyond experimental works, investigations on a movable joints and it working principles shall be carried out. Using contemporary examples of kinetic works in architecture, art and engineering to illustrate how recurrent problems such as energy expenditure, maintenance and complications in operation are solved with different design strategies. The research poses the questions about how and why joints enable movement and to better understand its current role as a architectonic element.

By looking at the way they fit into the larger system of moving elements, such as it position and configuration, analysis can be carried out on the various issues kinetic architecture faces through the perspective of the joint. Tectonic studies enable us to realise the limits and more importantly the potentials movable joints and broadly kinetic architecture possess, in doing so, the paper proposes that design research and development of kinetic joints is key to kinetic systems being implemented more effectively and take on more critical functions in architecture. The knowledge gain can then be used as a framework in analysing case studies, extrapolating the applications of the flexible joint and how it will geenrate non static architecture that shapes the new built environment.