ET-FEDORA: A Parametric ETFE Print Pattern Customization Kit for Natural Lighting Control

Apr 2022

Print patterns of ETFE membrane cushions can be customized for the best lighting and shading conditions under multiple factors. ET-FEDORA presents a parametric kit that generates massive cushion print patterns. Based on parameters such as lighting and shading objectives, sag-to-span ratios, cushion geometries, angles of incidence, and frit pattern strategies, it offers an active design strategy for better natural lighting control of ETFE membrane structures.

Comparing the results from the two separate simulations we have performed, We find that when the sag-to-span ratio is 0.20, the absorbance provided by the cushion system approaches better the objectives set by the train station design. This finding celebrates membrane structure’s unique feature of maneuvering foils in cycles of meters, much larger than masonry-like envelopes. Such features get prominent as the sag-to-span ratio increases. The scattered orientation of mesh faces offers the customization potential key to our computation model.

As a parametric customization kit, ET-FEDORA aims to provide an integrated computation model based on a series of factors. It generates massive heterogeneous print patterns that are easy to produce through mathematical simulation. Computer graphic-based rendering is also adopted in verifying ET-FEDORA’s performance.

The two renders suggests that controlling the dot size makes the lighting more uniform while controlling the dot density offers more sense of wholeness for visitors.