6th unit. construction with modular elements

6 construction with modular elements

UNIT 6 CONSTRUCTION WITH MODULAR ELEMENTS

1. DEFINITION
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION MODULE

3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND Is a dimension, usually taken as a measure unit,
MODULATION SISTEMS rule or ratio.
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN
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3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN
AAAATHE NATURE The module is also used to determine the ratio
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO between different parts of a whole, just as a
3.4. MODULOR component or an assembly of parts, a recurring
3.5. FRACTALS method of any design.

4. COMPONENTS AND JOINS
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN MODULATION
4.2. JOIN TYPES
Is the reference to the employment of repetitive
5. CAPSULE TOWER elements with similar characteristics in regard to
shape, size and function, naming “module” each
one of them.
6. KIM HOUSE

7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL
CENTRE MODULE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY MODULATION
Images:
AG

Authors: Maialen Andiarena, Ibon Apodaca, Edurne
Aracama, Kristina Aranburu, Ohiane Eguren, Iratxe Etxano,
Ana Gracenea, Ane Mateos, Irati Mendizabal, Mikel Soro


1. DEFINITION
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION

In order to establish a model, a parametric or dimensional definition is required. In the field of
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND construction, usually this is a metric parameter, which often responds to empirical criteria.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE As each situation has its own unique characteristics, hardly any constructive component with
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO predetermined dimensions will respond accordingly. In those cases, the parameters and
3.4. MODULOR dimensions of the components ought to be determined and, consequently, the need for the
3.5. FRACTALS module.

4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN
4.2. JOIN TYPES The module can be either the component itself or a part of it. Moreover, it can be a pure division
or the result of a complex decomposition. The module of a mass production is determined by
5. CAPSULE TOWER production systems and the degree of specificity of demand.

6. KIM HOUSE
A module definite away from both factors is bound to fail, so modules established with empirical
7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL origin are the successful ones.
CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT
In conclusion, the idealization and universalization of the module are a megalomaniac error.

BIBLIOGRAPHY



3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND MODULATION SISTEMS
1. DEFINITION
3.1 PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN BODY

The anthropometry is the “science that express the human body in a mathematical form”
(Cameron, 1979) or saying it in an other way; “the systematized art of measuring and observe the
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND
man, his skeleton his brain and his other organs” (Hrdlinka, 1947).
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY Egypt Rome Greece
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image: Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rinzewind/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/gb_fotos/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/zaqarbal/



VITRUVIAN MAN (1492)
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The Vitruvian man is the famous drawings, including anatomic notes, of Leonardo da Vinci,
drawn in one of his dairies by 1492. It represents a naked male figure in two different positions,
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND overprinted by arms and legs, and inscribed in a square and a circle.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
It’s about a study about proportions in human body. In other to this, Da Vinci based his drawing
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO in one of the text of De architectura (Book III Chapter I) by the roman architect from Octavio
3.4. MODULOR Augusto’s period, Marco Vitruvius Polion (c. I BC).
3.5. FRACTALS

4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN In the text Vitruvius mentions divers proportions presents in the human body, probably based in
4.2. JOIN TYPES Greek canons. Leonardo da Vinci used the proportions of Vitruvius, but he made some
corrections and made some additions to draw his Vitruvian Man.
5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE It’s also known as the canon of human proportions.

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



All these measurements are related by a module: H
1. DEFINITION

4 finger = 1 palm
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION 4 palm = 1 foot
6 palms = 1 elbow
4 elbows = the men’s height
MODULATION SISTEMS 4 elbows = 1 step
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN 24 palms = a men
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS
Image:
http://www.ibiblio.org/wm
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN If you separate the legs enough to decrease your height 1 / 14 and stretch and rise your shoulders
4.2. JOIN TYPES until your fingers are leveled with the top of your head:
extended arms = h
from the hairline the tip of the chin = h/10
5. CAPSULE TOWER from the tip of the chin to the top of the head = h / 8
from the upper chest to the tip of his head = h / 6
from the upper chest to the hairline = h / 7
6. KIM HOUSE
from the nipples to the top of the head = h / 4
the greatest width of shoulders = h / 4
7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL from the elbow to the tip of the hand = h / 5
CENTRE angle from the elbow to the armpit = h / 8
Full hand = h/10
the beginning of the genitals = h / 2
8. EDEN PROJECT foot = h / 7
from the sole of the foot to below the knee = h / 4
from below the knee at the beginning of the genitals = h / 4
BIBLIOGRAPHY
the distance from the bottom of the chin to the nose = from the hairline to the eyebrows = 1 /
3 of face



DUERER’S MAN (1528)
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION Albrecht Düerer, is one the most famous artist in the German Renaissance.

MODULATION SISTEMS
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN Through many of his journeys he acquire a renaissance vision. After one trip to Italy, he started to
aaaaaaBODY develop an investigation about the human body’s proportions, which were edited after his dead in
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN the “The four books about human proportions” in 1528.
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS
The innovation of Düerer in the evolution of the proportional systems, is that he doesn’t limit himself
in the search of the proportions of beauty in an only model or proportional system, but in many,
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN that can be understand as the beauty can be found in different proportions combinations. Is the
4.2. JOIN TYPES definitive acceptance of the canons plurality.

5. CAPSULE TOWER

This characteristic thought of Düerer, makes a difference in the all classic tradition and his
6. KIM HOUSE renaissance’s contemporaries, who where still determined to find an unique human beauty by a
proportional system. At this point he starts to denied the unique model In a certain way, this is the
beginning of the gradual separation between the beauty and the proportion.
CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT It’s paradoxical his tentative to us that the scientific validity of the proportions theory is to multiply
them.
BIBLIOGRAPHY



Anthropometric canons:
1. DEFINITION 1/2 h = height of the head and trunk (up to the crotch)
1/4 h = height of the leg from ankle to knee, and distance from chin to navel
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION 1/6 h = foot length
1/8 h = height of the head, from top to the bottom of the chin, and distance between
1/10 h = height and width of the face (including ears), and the length of the hand to wrist
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND 1/12 h = from face width to the lower edge of the nose and thick calf
MODULATION SISTEMS ...
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN These subdivisions go up to 1/ 40 h
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Images:
http://www.aloj.us.es/abduran/estilo%20doctorado/



1. DEFINITION
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN THE NATURE

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION THE GOLDEN RATIO

MODULATION SISTEMS The golden ratio refers to a number. This number, discovered in the antiquity, has some interesting
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN properties as proportion or rate. This ratio is found both in geometric figures and in the parts of the
aaaaaaBODY
body. It can also be found in nature: as the relation between bodies and in the morphology of
AAAATHE NATURE various elements such as shells, the ribs of the leaves of some trees, the thickness of branches,
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO human proportions, and so on. Comparing all the examples which can be seen in nature, which
3.4. MODULOR golden ratio is the most spectacular and surprising for you?
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE
Images:
http://www.sxc.hu/
CENTRE
"The measure of the bee's abdomen divided by Φ is equal to the measure of his chest. Conversely, his
chest measurement divided by Φ is equal to the measure of his head."
8. EDEN PROJECT

If we take a leaf stalk and count the number of consecutive leaves until we find another sheet
BIBLIOGRAPHY with the same orientation, this number will generally be part of the Fibonacci sequence.



1. DEFINITION
3.3 GOLDEN RATIO

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION Greek mathematics (Pythagoras, Euclid and Plato) discovered the predominance of the
golden ratio in their theories about proportions.
MODULATION SISTEMS
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN “A segment is divided by means of the golden ratio when the proportion between of the
aaaaaaBODY segment and the biggest section is the same as the proportion between the biggest and the
smallest sections. ”
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES
Image:
AG
5. CAPSULE TOWER
Take AB=1, BC=X, the golden ratio will be defined as:
6. KIM HOUSE
(X+1)/X=X/1

7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL Being the golden ratio, represented by Φ figure
CENTRE

Then, the solution to the equation: Φ ² - Φ - 1 = 0
8. EDEN PROJECT
Which it’s square root is:
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Φ=(1+√5)/2 =1,61803399 > golden ratio



Euclid, and the geometric construction of the golden ratio rectangle.
1. DEFINITION


3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND Take the diagram in which AE=EB and EF=EC
MODULATION SISTEMS
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN If we suppose AE=EB=1, BC=2 can be calculated,
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE and by means of the Pythagorean theorem EC=√5
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR we can subtract that AF=1+=√5.
3.5. FRACTALS
Consequently, the sides of AFGD rectangle are
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN bound by the golden ratio: AF/AD=Φ=(1+√5)/2
4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER Image:
AG

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE The golden rectangle, one of the most used canonical composition method of work. It has
been used by all kinds of artists throughout art history.

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



Starting with ABCD rectangle, if we subtract AEFD square of the rectangle’s AB side’s smaller
1. DEFINITION
part, we will get EBCF golden rectangle. Then, if we subtract EBGH square from EBCF in the
same way, we will get HCGF, another golden rectangle. This process can be repeated as we
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION want, each time bring those rectangles closer to the logarithmic spirals O centre.

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
AG

Authors:
Autores: Maialen Andiarena, Ibon Apodaca, Edurne


Relation between the golden number and Fibonacci sequence:
1. DEFINITION


MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES
Image:
AM
5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233…
CENTRE
The ratios of consecutive numbers of the Fibonacci sequence are steadily approximating
8. EDEN PROJECT
to Φ = 1,61803399… the golden ratio.

BIBLIOGRAPHY



DANTEUM. GIUSEPPE TERRAGNI. 1938-40
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The utilization of the use and the application of the golden ratio has been used frequently in
design process but also in architecture, as we can see in the next example.
MODULATION SISTEMS
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN The Dantum was designed in 1938 by Giuseppe Terragni and Pietro Lingeri, with interventions
aaaaaaBODY sculptural Sironi. Even if this project was no executed, its approach can be considered as one
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN of the finest and complex ideas in the tradition as the modern movement, becoming a subject
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO of major studies.
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS
The aim of the project is to describe the materials and the architectural laws based in the
signification expressed in the verses of Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy”. Al least a third of the
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN total project has been a “function” (exposition hall and library) and all the remaining space has
4.2. JOIN TYPES on a “right”.

5. CAPSULE TOWER
The project consisted of a series of rooms placed in an ascending(rising) spiral marked by the
use of substances of the light, also ascending(rising) (I change from the shades to the light),
6. KIM HOUSE that symbolizes a trip of the conscience to contemplating celestial infernal abyss. In Danteum
the transition between(among) the rooms always treats itself about the interruption or the
postponement of the walls.
CENTRE

The principal rooms were: the dark wood, the purgatory, the hell and the paradise.
8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



The Golden ratio in the plan of the Danteum is divided in four equal rectangles, (rectangles that
1. DEFINITION
are also based in the golden ratio, the proportion is unchangeable in resemblance, in this case
in1=2 reason), 3 of then are entitled to the different rooms that represent the 3 canticles: the hell,
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION the purgatory and the paradise, situated in 3 levels.

MODULATION SISTEMS In the next link (click here) we can read a very clear explanation of the application of Dante’s
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN novel. Also a very good graphic explanations in the different rooms and passages bases in the
aaaaaaBODY golden ratio.
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR In this video you can check a recreation of the interior views of possible construction of the
3.5. FRACTALS Danteum (click here)

4.2. JOIN TYPES For more interest you can consult the following book:

5. CAPSULE TOWER
Terragni: el danteum. Roma. 1938-1940
Aparicio Guisado, Jesus Mª
6. KIM HOUSE 2005
Isbn: 9788472071667
CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



3.4 LE MODULOR (1948)
1. DEFINITION

Le modulor is the measuring system detailed by Le Corbusier. The measurements start form the
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION man’s height with the hand lifted (226 cm) and from his half, the height of the belly button (113
cm). From the first measurement and multiplying successively and dividing in the same way by the
gold number we obtain the so called Blue series, and we also obtain in the same way the red series.
MODULATION SISTEMS Becoming each one a Fibonacci’s sequence, and allowing thousand harmonical combinations
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

Blue series (m):
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN …9,57; 5,92; 3,66; 2,26; 1,40; 0,86; 0,53; 0,33;
4.2. JOIN TYPES 0,20…

Red series (m):
5. CAPSULE TOWER
…4,79; 2,96; 1,83; 1,13; 0,70; 0,43; 0,26; 0,16;
0,10…
6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rucativava



1. DEFINITION
3.4 FRACTAL GEOMETRY


It seeks analyze, develop and to model
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND nature objects and situations.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE Fractal geometry isn’t based in a
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO modulation, it looks for a nature based
3.4. MODULOR modulation.
3.5. FRACTALS

4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN It’s too irregular to be explained in
4.2. JOIN TYPES traditional geometric terms.

5. CAPSULE TOWER

Image:
6. KIM HOUSE Jon Sullivan

7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL Applications of the fractal geometry:
CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT Medicine Strategy Military Science

Industry Architecture Music Painting
BIBLIOGRAPHY



Fractal forms, those which its parts are similar to the whole, can be found in the biological matter,
1. DEFINITION
along with symmetry (basic forms that only need half of that genetics' information), and spirals
(basic forms ways of development and growth for expansion), as the most sophisticated ones in
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION the evolutionary development of biological material, presented in processes in which mayor
developments occur in biological terms, and as a result possible catastrophes (extraordinary
scenarios) that give rise to even more complex new realities. For example, leaves ( the ones that
MODULATION SISTEMS have similar morphology to the small branch of which they are part) have, in turn, a shape similar
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN to the branch, which in turn is similar to the shape of the tree. Nevertheless, neither of them are
aaaaaaBODY the same in biological terms: a leaf is, simple biological form, whereas a branch or a tree are
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN biological complex forms.
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE
Images:
www.freedigitalphotos.net
8. EDEN PROJECT
“Clouds aren’t spherical, mountains aren’t cones, seashores aren’t circular, a dog’s bark isn’t
BIBLIOGRAPHY smooth, as lightning doesn’t make a straight line. ” - Benoît Mandelbrot



As we mentioned before, we can apply the fractal geometry to architecture.
1. DEFINITION

The fractal method allows new expression of architectural theories, by means of its possibilities
of complexity and superposition. The use of fractal geometry as source grants the power to
MODULATION SISTEMS express two opposing states such as organized forms and organic complexity, at the same
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN time to architecture.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR In the image on the left we can in the see the representation of the Logone-Birni city’s palace
3.5. FRACTALS (Cameroon). On the right we have the fractal model of the Ba-lla’s city settlement. Tow clear
fractal example of African architecture.
4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT
Images:
AG
BIBLIOGRAPHY



Another, more contemporary, example of fractal architecture we can find in the Eugene
1. DEFINITION
Bavinger house (Oklahoma, 1950), as we can see down here. But also represented in the floor
plan of the Jewish Elementary school by the architect Zvi Hecker that can be consulted in the
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION following link: http://www.zvihecker.com

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.wikipedia.org/



1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The ancient construction was characterized by a material continuity in which the unions were
vanishing in a hydraulic counterfoil.
MODULATION SISTEMS
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN Nevertheless, the meeting always has had an identifying presence of limits, in some non-existent
aaaaaaBODY cases.
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR The board is consubstantial with industrialized construction, in which the parties are fully identified
3.5. FRACTALS and are performed by different agents in different places, and are limited by transportation,
media production and assembly.
4.2. JOIN TYPES The joins must satisfy all the requirements imposed on the components that you link and the
specific ones derived from his own character of meeting.
5. CAPSULE TOWER

Very diverse types exist of united, consistent to the systems which they join and the characteristics
6. KIM HOUSE of the components.

CENTRE In case of the buildings for example, the meetings are very clear; it is to say, it is possible to observe
the meeting between two materials. The proportions in the architecture are estimated in the
composition of the building, the front… modules exist in the elements of construction.
8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



In case of the buildings we can see clearly the line of meeting or the join.
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION To achieve it different systems of construction are in use, this way like: mortar (to join two bricks),
neoprene (for meetings expansions), anchorages (to place the panels in the walls), screws
without end, spikes …
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image:
http://www.sxc.hu/ taken in situ- author: Ramón Muñoz



1. DEFINITION
4.1 THE VALUE OF THE JOIN

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION All the technological systems have joins (garment, footwear, domestic appliances, furniture,
cars, computers, etc.). Providing that if different parts exist, there will be joints.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Images:
http://www.sxc.hu/



1. DEFINITION
A good part of the inventions now-a-days, have incorporated major value added thanks to the
evolution of the joins (Velcro, zippers, screws, nails, …)

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

Imagen:
http://www.sxc.hu/
4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Images:
http://www.sxc.hu/



Contradictory opinions exist around to the aesthetic or composition value of the joins since, these
1. DEFINITION can form a part of the global image of the building or, be mere constructive requirements.

For example, in the building Sainsbury de Foster, we can see an hiper-valuation of the meeting
since its forms a part of the aesthetic concept of the building.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Images:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/25831000@N08/



1. DEFINITION
4.2 TYPES OF JOINS

System joins

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image:
taken in situ- author: Ramón Muñoz taken in situ- author: Ramón Muñoz



1. DEFINITION


MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Images:
taken in situ- author: Ramón Muñoz



1. DEFINITION
5. KISHO KUROKAWA. NAKAGIN CAPSULE TOWER (1972)

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The Nakagin Capsule Tower was the first capsule architecture design, the capsule as a room
inserted into a mega-structure, built for actual use. The Capsule Tower realizes the ideas of
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND metabolism, exchangeability, recyclability as the prototype of sustainable architecture.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image:
© arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com © arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com



The one-man-room capsule, a modified (4 x 2.5 meter) shipping container, has a circular
1. DEFINITION
window, a built-in bed and bathroom unit, and is complete with TV, radio and alarm clock. The
capsule interior was pre-assembled in a factory then hoisted by crane and fastened to the
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION concrete core shaft.

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image:
© arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com © arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com



Located in the Ginza area of Tokyo, the Nagakin Capsule Tower, was originally designed as a
1. DEFINITION
Capsule Hotel to provide economical housing for businessmen working late in central Tokyo during
the week.
The 14-story high Tower has 140 capsules stacked at angles around a central core. Kurokawa
developed the technology to install the capsule units into the concrete core with only 4 high
MODULATION SISTEMS tension bolts, as well as making the units detachable and replaceable.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
© arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com



Residents in Japan’s most famous experiment in living and working in tiny pods are now plotting
1. DEFINITION
its demolition. Kurokawa's design theory was to replace the capsules when needed but the
building has not been maintained in 33 years which has caused drainage and water pipes to
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION be damaged.

The international heritage protection group Docomomo, have unsuccessfully pleaded for the
MODULATION SISTEMS United Nations' heritage arm to protect this landmark building
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
© arcspace.com - www.arcspace.com



1. DEFINITION
6. KIM HOUSE. WARO KISHI (1987)

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The Kim house is situated in the humble neighbour of Ikuno-ku (Japan). This small lot (large and
narrow) was constructed before the was. The neighbor is formed by different large and narrow
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND streets.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
Most the one family house live together with the Korean food restaurants, fabrics and store
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO houses.
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4. COMPONENTS AND JOINS The Japanese culture is full of traditions. The Kim House tries modernize to these traditions (in
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN example, having crystal walls instead of paper walls) but at the same time it preserves the typical
4.2. JOIN TYPES characteristics of a traditional Japanese room.

5. CAPSULE TOWER

Osaka is a city with mild weather, due to its proximity to the sea. Strong rains hit the city during the
6. KIM HOUSE months of June to August. While in September, the typhoons arrive.

CENTRE
The construction of the dwelling is very influenced by the weather. Usually, the back and front
facades are close. This helps a lot in winter, as the house is protected by the cold, and in summer
8. EDEN PROJECT
the house gets refrigerated as is provided an interior courtyard, that at the same time it provides
light.
BIBLIOGRAPHY



The budget for the house was limited. It lead the architect to create a house based on modules
1. DEFINITION
and prefabricate elements.


In other to do this, he used the measurement that is between walls, 2.58m. With this measure he
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND plans all the project. The high, the length, the depth… are directly proportional to this number.
MODULATION SISTEMS From the prefabricated panel of the facade to the floor ceramics.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE As we can see in the images from the following link (click here) we can see the clear modulation
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO starting from the façade
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

In a nutshell we can say that:
4.2. JOIN TYPES
16 ceramics
the smallest unit of the facades
5. CAPSULE TOWER 9 of these
the width of the house
2 units of the width
6. KIM HOUSE
the house height
the division of the depth
7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL 3 of these
CENTRE the total depth

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY Images:
AM



The function of the material in the structure.
1. DEFINITION

The principal material used in Kim House are from these days. The ones that are being created
thanks to the industrializations. In this way the dwelling is formed by the reinforced concrete and
MODULATION SISTEMS the H steel profiles.
aaaaaaBODY
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN About the space distribution, it is made by crystal panels, that creates a continuity between
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO spaces. The same effect is made by the floor tiles. Or the same effect that we find between the
3.4. MODULOR kitchen and the interior courtyard.
3.5. FRACTALS
The only construction systems used where the foundations, made in-situ, and all the rest elements
were made by mounting pieces. In this way, comes the need of a physical interaction of both oh
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN the objects, one carries the other.
4.2. JOIN TYPES

Even if it is economically cheap, also in maintenance, the construction is totally efficient.
5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE For more information and images about the Kim House you can check the following book:

CENTRE “Waro Kishi-Buildings and projects”
Hiroshi Watanabe
Ed. Axel Menges.
8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



1. DEFINITION
7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL CENTRE. RENZO PIANO (1991-98)

Situated in Noumea (New Caledonia), the Marie Tjibaou cultural center is locate in very
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION sensible natural environment.

3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND The hill where the cultural center is situates, has a difficult access and the tropical climate
MODULATION SISTEMS creates strong wind drafts.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/virginieetfabien/



The main program was the creation of a settler for the Kanaki tribe. For this, the architect made
1. DEFINITION an re-interpretation of the traditional huts of the place, but without leaving apart the new
technologies.

The Iroko wood (local) was used for the constructions, with galvanized steel for the subjection.
The floor is granite, the enclose is made of glass and the interiors are covered with cork.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:



Noumea is situated in the Tropic of Capricorn, from this the tropical climate, the strong winds
1. DEFINITION and the heavy rains that hit the peninsula.

When they were planning the center they took in account the climate and planed a
refrigeration system, taking advantage of the wind drafts. In addition, due the high levels of
humidity the materials suffer a very special treatment.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
A. M.



The module is used in the plan as well as in the sections. In the plan it represent a structure
1. DEFINITION gradually modulated by the used of 2 by 2 columns groups.

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION It modules the vertical panel, but also the horizontal ones, situated in two layers, to compose
the façade. All of this is well documents in developing plans, so all the panels can be
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND prefabricated.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY In those building with a roof, the roof will also be modulated, the structure as well as the panels.
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN The join elements are also prefabricated.
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image: Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mishmoshimoshi www.flickr.com/photos/robyn-gallagher



1. DEFINITION
8. PROYECTO EDEN. NICHOLAS GRIMSAW (2000)

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION This project designed by N. Grimzhaw, is based on the nature and into the sustantaible design.
The interior held different biological species. The aim: create a tropical climate and to make
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND possible the visitors can walk inside.
MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY The projects states that the interior and exterior climates are not the same. The exterior climate is
3.2. AESTHETICS OF PROPORTIONS IN strongly oceanic, with a relative high humidity, rain and clouds. While the interior climates tries to
AAAATHE NATURE simulate the oceanic and Mediterranean climate conditions. The project is giant greenhouse.
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:



The influence of the High Tech is very notorious in the structure, as well in the closure systems.
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION The roof is composed by different vaults, that at the same time they are modulated. These
metallic vaults are construct by pentagon and hexagons, that get cut between obtaining
different uses in their interiors. The line of the intersection between the spheres are made by
MODULATION SISTEMS metallic arcs.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/apenguincalledelvis



Because the light in the hexagons was 11m it was difficult to build it with glass. EFTE panels were
1. DEFINITION
used. This material was able to adapt to the structure’s irregularities. It simplified, cheapened and
accelerated the constructive process.

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/apenguincalledelvis



Pentagons are used in singular places such as on the top of the domes. The outdoor skin
1. DEFINITION
structure and the indoor arc structure are joined by tetrahedrons.

Besides cheapening the project thanks to the modulation, it facilitated the construction. The
compromise between the module and the material was important, because it was possible to
MODULATION SISTEMS use the advantages of the module trough EFTE.
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/europafoto



Ventilation pipes are directly joined to the interior structure, showing them.
1. DEFINITION

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION Despite the big volumes, the ventilation system is efficient.

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Image:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/europafoto



Besides cheapening the project thanks to the modulation, it facilitated the construction. The
1. DEFINITION
compromise between the module and the material was important, because it was possible to
use the advantages of the module trough EFTE.

MODULATION SISTEMS
aaaaaaBODY
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS

4.2. JOIN TYPES

5. CAPSULE TOWER

Image:
6. KIM HOUSE http://www.flickr.com/photos/11475646@N03

CENTRE You can also find more information and images about this project in the following magazine.

AV Monografías 96.
8. EDEN PROJECT Año 2002.

BIBLIOGRAPHY



1. DEFINITION
BIBLIOGRAPHY

2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION www.wikipedia.com
www.wikipedia.es
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND www.youtube.com
MODULATION SISTEMS www.arcspace.com
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN www.aloj.us.es/abduran/estilo%20doctorado/
aaaaaaBODY www.infomadera.net/images/15869.pdf
www.flickr.com
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO http://www.sxc.hu/
3.4. MODULOR http://centros.edu.xunta.es/iesramoncabanillas/cuadmat/indhv.htm
3.5. FRACTALS http://bp2.blogger.com

4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN Waro Kishi; Introd. Terence Riley, Ed. G:G.
4.2. JOIN TYPES “Waro Kishi-Buildings and proyects”, Hiroshi Watanabe, Ed. Axel Menges.
AV monografias 119.
Renzo Piano, architettura e tecnica.
5. CAPSULE TOWER
Renzo Piano Buildig Workshop.
AV Monografías 96. 7- 8- 2002.
6. KIM HOUSE

CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT

BIBLIOGRAPHY



1. DEFINITION
AUTHORS [2008-2009]

Unai Apraiz Ibone Arreche
2. FROM MODEL TO MODULATION Olalla Arrien Nekane Arrieta
Amaia Díaz Nikolas Legarda
3. EXAMPLES OF PROPORTIONS AND Daniel Eguren Daniel Luengas
MODULATION SISTEMS Mercedes Ibáñez Mikel Mujika
3.1. PROPORTIONS IN THE HUMAN Alexander de Luis Julen Rodriguez
aaaaaaBODY Berta Martín
Héctor Pérez
AAAATHE NATURE
3.3. GOLDEN RATIO Zuriñe Piñán
3.4. MODULOR
3.5. FRACTALS AUTHORS [2009-2010]

4. COMPONENTS AND JOINS Maialen Andiarena
4.1. THE VALUE OF THE JOIN Ibon Apodaca
4.2. JOIN TYPES Edurne Aracama
Kristina Aranburu
5. CAPSULE TOWER Ohiane Eguren
Iratxe Etxano
Ana Gracenea
6. KIM HOUSE Ane Mateos
Irati Mendizabal
7. JEAN-MARIE TJIBAOU CULTURAL Mikel Soro
CENTRE

8. EDEN PROJECT Copyrights of these images belong to their authors.
Any other content on this work is licensed under Creative
BIBLIOGRAPHY Commons by-sa 3.0.


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