The design and construction of interactive architectural environments : the digital mile, Zaragoza, Spain

Abstract

As a part of a master plan for the Digital Mile, a park in Zaragoza, Spain, this thesis will undertake the mechanical design and construction of a responsive and rearrangeable system of walls and doors for increasing the flexibility of the "edge" between open space and a new museum building. In order to study this question, this thesis builds on a previous planning thesis and the prescribed architectural forms as a basis for investigation of potential construction materials and joint technologies. Through this study, a design will emerge for this unique system that allows space to expand and contract and the building edge to become porous or sealed, responding to the demands for different activities and situations. Construction materials and mechanisms will be studied based on the functional requirements of the system. These investigations will lead to recommendations for mechanical means to achieve the prescribed architectural and performance specifications. It is anticipated that this new building-edge will support a wider variety of activities and in this way enhance the livability and usability of public space. Beyond the physical design, this thesis will also demonstrate the ability of interdisciplinary work to enrich the design process.