The :metabolon project demonstrates resource-saving, renewable and circular building materials, space-saving design, and construction methods through two experimental housing prototypes. Designed as research demonstrators, the model houses exemplify individual work and living spaces with minimal space requirements and efficient, multifunctional use of spaces. The houses, based on the modular timber construction system INTERACT developed by the CODE-ARCH research unit at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences, feature efficient use of space and rely on a digital production chain. The project aims to showcase innovative and sustainable architecture and promote a holistic life cycle approach, including monitoring energy consumption, material use, user behavior, and well-being. The paper discusses the architectural concept and process steps, including the integration of technical aspects and the further development of the INTERACT system.

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The InterACT research project focuses on the use of computational design and manufacturing methods in the construction of self-build projects based on wooden structures. The goal is the interdisciplinary development and realization of a prototypical laboratory on the university campus in Cologne. At the intersection of craftsmanship and architecture, the project aims to generate, collect and share interdisciplinary knowledge. The InterACT Lab is intended to function as a hybrid learning and research space, uniting theory and practice. Moreover, the project should make the concept of networked learning and research visible beyond the academic boundaries. The entire development of the project has been set-up as a participative and collaborative learning process, involving students in the conceptual design, decision making and the production of the building components as well as in the assembly of the structure, using digital tools as a common base and connector throughout the process. The paper presents the didactic concept and discusses the findings of the various steps from the early design phase to the realization of a first prototype in scale 1:1. @en

This research examines the technical feasibility of façades as cyber-physical systems, which can revolutionize former hierarchical and closed automation concepts of mechatronics through their cooperation of decentralized entities. While such systems are already employed in many application fields to increase the flexibility and performance of automated processes, a transfer to the operation of automated adaptive façades has not yet been investigated. In this study, a prototype is developed to systematically test the application of individual cyber-physical system criteria to façades. The prototype is organized in modules, each of which represents one instance of the selected façade functions of solar shading, natural and mechanical ventilation, and heating and cooling. The emphasis lies on development of a communication system that allows the functions to communicate and cooperate with each other. Evaluation of the prototype takes place in five independent case studies, in which the potential of the cyber-physical implementation is demonstrated by a successful system-internal cooperation. The study found that important aspects of cyber-physical systems, like their embedded control, the integration of actuators and sensor networks, implementation of a communication system and connection to a digital twin, are also feasible and promising in the façade domain.

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The study examines the existing technical basis in building practice for the application of cyber-physical systems on the façade. The associated intelligent cooperation of automated adaptive façade functions, inspired by intelligent technical systems in industry 4.0, offers a potential for the overall building performance. By the type and scope of automations already introduced today, façade functions are identified that offer special potential for consideration in a cyber-physically implemented façade. The investigation represents a multiple case study analysis in which office façades in Germany are examined. Data is collected from literature, expert interviews and field investigations. The evaluation is carried out in a single case analysis and a following cross-case analysis, in which patterns and dependencies in the joint implementation of automated and adaptive façade functions are identified. The study found that especially sun-related functions are implemented adaptively, often in combination with ventilation and the heating and cooling support function.

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The high and increasing requirements concerning energy consumption and the interior comfort of buildings result in a demand for more efficient façade constructions. In its role as a mediator between the exterior and interior of a building, the façade takes on a multitude of functions with effect on the building’s performance. Intelligent façades offer higher performances compared to static constructions, achieved by dynamic adjustments to changing environmental influences and interior requirements. Such systems are being explored and already applied. The concept of intelligent façades exists since the beginning of the 1980s. Since then, the technological possibilities for the implementation of intelligent systems have multiplied. Today, the fourth industrial revolution is based on the implementation of intelligent and networked production facilities. Considering the current exploration of intelligent technical systems in the industry, the understanding and the demands on the intelligence of a system change. The aim of this study is to examine the comprehension of an intelligent system in the context of the façade and in the context of the industry. This is to provide the basis for subsequent research on the transferability of strategies. The study provides used terms, relevant aspects, current definitions and characteristics of the respective intelligent system.

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The environmental boundary conditions and the demand for comfort change constantly during the use of a building. By dynamically balancing changing conditions and requirements, adaptive façades contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings. The façade fulfils a multitude of functions that are interdependent and relate to environmental conditions and requirements. By negotiating mutually supportive and competing adaptive functions, intelligent coordination offers the potential for better performance of façades in building operation. The strategy is already being applied in other application areas, such as the intelligently cooperating machines in industry 4.0. There, individual automated production plants are networked to form intelligent technical systems with regard to a common production goal. The research presented follows the assumption that this strategy can be applied to automated and adaptive functions of the façade to increase the building performance. The study identifies those functions which, due to possible automation and adaptivity, as well as effect on performance, can be considered as possible components of an intelligently cooperating system. In addition, characteristics are determined which can be used to evaluate the extent of automation and adaptivity of an individual façade function. The study shows that the detailed analysis of the automation and adaptivity within identified façade functions is possible. With a superimposition matrix, it also provides a tool that enables this assessment of the degree of automation and adaptability.@en

Since the late 19th century the improvement of human needs, social and environmental concerns is considered to be an integral part of modern architecture. Most buildings and environments have been designed without knowing the detailed impact of materials and technologies on performance user's perception. At the beginning of the 21st century architecture is again strongly influenced by new materials and the integration of technologies and in most countries by demographic changes and the needs of aging societies. The quality and impact of interior space on human perception as well as movement and orientation in buildings have become strategic requirements for designing buildings and environments. Digital tools of visualisation and simulation are known for supporting and optimising the planning and design process.@en

Focusing on the use of advanced computational technologies within the design process the paper discusses the generation of a digital matrix to evaluate virtual, three-dimensional scenarios - including variations of geometry, light ambiances and material use - as a design decision tool. The emphasis of the research was placed on the digital representation of material appearance as one of the most a relevant parameter for the atmospheric quality of spaces. The case study Design Decision Matrix delivers a concept for a decision tool that on the one hand generates and displays design variations and offers on the other hand a clearly arranged visual interface for the decision process.@en