Application of Bamboo Modular System (BMS) Design

2nd

International Conference On Innovation And Technology

For Sustainable Built Environment 2014

Application of Bamboo Modular System (BMS) Design

(Bamboo Architecture).

Mohd Sabrizaa Abd.Rashida,

, Zafuan Husrib, Suzana Said

c,

Razali Kamisand, Nordin Misnat

e , Rahim Ismail

f

a&bCenter for Knowledge & Understanding of Tropical Architecture & Interior (KUTAI)

Universiti Teknologi MARA,UiTM (Perak), Seri Iskandar Campus, 32610 Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia.

c&dDepartment of Architecture,Faculty of Architecture,Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA,UiTM (Perak), Seri Iskandar Campus,

32610 Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia. eDepartment of Interior Design,Faculty of Architecture,Planning and Surveying,

Universiti Teknologi MARA,UiTM (Perak), Seri Iskandar Campus,

32610 Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia.. fDesign Principles Sdn. Bhd, Pandan Indah Industrial Park

55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Abstract

With some touch of creativity and innovation, various problems regarding global architecture issues can be solved in line with the adaptation of green technology and sustainable development. This paper will discuss and introduce the design ideas on Bamboo Cube Modular System and its application toward architectural design. A prototype of a bus shelter is produced based on the application of this design system, where the focus will be on the development of its structural design, connection and construction. Bamboo has the potential to be applied as a strong and stylish material in this architectural scope. The combination of modern technology and natural material provides positive balance to this competence world development in general and human awareness to be specific.

Keywords: Creativity and Innovation; Green Technology; Sustainable Development; Bamboo Cube Modular System; Bus Shelter Prototype.

1. Introduction

Sustainable development concept and green technology is one of the solution to the various development

problems faced by the world nowadays. One of the detail definition of Sustainable Development had been discussed

in World Commission on Environment, whereas the sustainable development is termed as something that fulfill the

current needs without affecting the ability of future generations to fulfill their own needs (A. Eliot, 2006). When the

explaination is adapted to the architectural perspective, it seems to be focusing on the finding of architectural

solution which guaranteed the prosperity to the existence of three groups of constituent which are; the elements of

non-organic, living organism dan human being (Jong-Jin Kim & Brenda Ridgon, 1998). The conseqeunces of the

awareness has brought to the introduction of three principles in order to realised the sustainable development in

architecture, which are the Economic Resources, Life Cycle Design and Humanity Design (Jong-Jin Kim & Brenda

Rigdon, 1998). The three principles focusing on nature and natural resources to be applied on Sustainable or Eco

Architecture. The use of natural materials consisted of the objectives of the three principles had been mentioned by

the previous academicians as one of the important aspect in sustainable architecture. The natural construction

materials contain lower toxic energy if compared to the man-made materials. It is easier to handle, non-polluting wh

and well- known as renewable resources (Jong-Jin Kim & Brenda Ridgon, 1998).

Corresponding Author. Tel.: +06-05-3742000 ; fax: +0-000-000-0000

E-mail address: [email protected]

Mohd Sabrizaa,Zafuan Husri,Suzana Said,Razali Kamisan,Nordin Misnat,Rahim Ismail/ 2nd ICITSBE 2014

Figure 1. Cultural Center, Pardinho, São Paulo, Brazil -

Architect: Leiko Motomura

Bamboo is known as one of the natural resources which is suitable to be used as construction materials that help

in generating Sustainable Architectural concept. However, the usage of this materials can only be seen at the

minimum level in construction, especially by the architects, designers as well as the builders. Although there are

several bamboo buidings constructed and various effort were featured to introduce bamboo as basic buiding

materials, it is still lacking in Malaysia. With some creativity and innovation, bamboo have the high potential to be

developed in line with sustainable development nowadays. This paper will discuss on the design of the Bamboo Bus

Shelter using Modular System as the design concept in consistent with the aim and the definition of Sustainable

Development and Green Architecture.

2. Programme Background

This program is introduced as an initiative to produce a new eco contemporary architecture technology using

bamboo. The combination of traditional techniques with new technology will create a contemporary vernacular

architecture style. It has the potential to be marketed locally and internationally. In the initial stage, the focus in this

program is the production of a bus shelter design for public use to create a new character and identity for cities in

Malaysia. Indirectly, it shows an image on the implementation of green technology and sustainable development in

Malaysia. It will also have an impact on the local tourism industry. The new design will be introduced to local

authorities and government. This project combines experiences from Design Principles Sdn. Bhd in conjunction

with expertise from Center for Knowledge & Understanding of Tropical Architecture & Interior (KUTAI) and

Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, UiTM Perak (FSPU) as well as the

involvement of Forest Research Institute Of Malaysia (FRIM) as the consultant for tropical forests. The robust

combination is expected to produce a new contemporary architectural design using bamboo which have high

commercial value.

3. Bamboo as New Eco Archıtecture for Sustaınable Development

Bamboo is well known as renewable natural resource with simple physical attributes. It is environmentally

friendly; the waste from the development is proven to be non-polluting and easily disposed. Through new

technology in preservation and conservation, bamboo construction will be more durable with better performance.

Currently, there are many types of designs that are able to solve problems which exist in bamboo architecture over

the years. With simple drawings and constant follow up and finally with model constructed we can fill the

technological gap by adding the scientific knowledge and technological expertise to make bamboo more acceptable

and stronger, durable and more practical (Nwoke & Ugwuishiwu, 2011). Figure 1 – 2 shows the versatility of

bamboo as a structural materials.

Typically, sustainability of the built environment is focused on the use of local materials its adaptation to utilize

the natural resources in the local environment. By adapting them to the surroundings, for example, the building then

will utilise the natural resources of light, ventilation, and vegetation to allow it to operate more efficiently. The main

Figure 2. Wind & Water Bar,Binhduong,Vietnam

Architect : Vo Trong Nghia

http://www.frim.gov.my/

Mohd Sabrizaa,Zafuan Husri,Suzana Said,Razali Kamisan,Nordin Misnat,Rahim Ismail, / 2nd ICITSBE 2014

goal in this exercise is to reduce the impact on the environment of the building and its use and occupancy, as well as

to minimize the operation costs of the building during its lifespan (Sharma, 2010).

4. Architecture Modular System Design

The introduction of modular system used in each design will provide a holistic positive impact not only on

consumers but on the designers themselves. Recently, modularity is considered as a promising tool to develop

product family, where it allow to design a variety of products using the same modules of components called

platform (Alberto Jose & Michel Tollenaere, 2005). Modular principle offers a firm to build complex product

through the integration or the assembly of smaller modules or subsystems which can be designed and developed

independently but function together as a whole (Carliss Y. Baldwin & Kim B. Clark, 2005). This type of

architectural design consists of modules that can be used as self-contained building blocks operated for high-level

systems.While modular components can be developed autonomously by different groups, coordination of the overall

development process is generated from of the presence of interface specifications embedded in the architecture,

thereby shifting the burden of coordination away from managerial authority (Sanchez, 1995). In addition,

modularity acts as a mean to accommodate uncertainty (Tuertscher.P et al. 2008). Modular architecture seems to be

more flexible whereas the surface of the design are the same, which made it easier to be transformed in various ideas

with the functions.

Figure 3. Daniel Piker's Folding Patterns using Modular

Concept. Source : http://www.todayandtomorrow.net

Figure 4. Application of Modular System on LEGO Company Product – LEGO Architecture

Source : http://architecture.lego.com

Figure 5. The Japanese Metabolism Movement, high-rise modular blocks arranged in non uniform variations.

Source : http://paperplanedesignblog.weebly.com


5. Design Method For BMS

5.1 Eco Bus Shelter Design

The design of the Eco Bus Shelter was produced by UiTM Perak’s students with supervision by the faculty

members from the Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Quantity Surveying who are actively involved in KUTAI

activity. The design concepts are based on several criterias stated in Figure 6:

The design process was carried in two phases; the production of concept and ideas, then the improvement and

development of the design. The two phases were done according to the expertise available at KUTAI. Product

suitability is determined by the Design Principles Sdn. Bhd. as an industry pioneer.

There were seven designs produced by the students as a result of their participation to this research. The

three best design that meet the research criteria and objectives were selected to be developed in the next phase

• Bamboo as the main element/material

• Flexible and functional on every aspect of design

• According to the appropriate scale dimension - anthropometry

• Contemporary Architecture feature

• Creating a new revolution to Bamboo Architecture

• Minimum usage of alternative material other than bamboo

• Create an efficient and sustainable construction system

• Easily operated and updated in terms of structure

• Minimal construction cost and easy to market.

Figure 6: Design criteria which is set in accordance with the compatibility of Modular System Design

MODULAR SYSTEM

DESIGN

IDEA AND CONCEPT

PRODUCTION PHASE

DESIGN IMPROVEMENT AND

DEVELOPMENT PHASE

FINAL DESIGN PRODUCTION

FOR PROTOTYPE

CONSTRUCTION

FSPU Student and KUTAI

Lecturer,UiTM Perak.

KUTAI UiTM Perak

Lecturer,Design Principles

Sdn.Bhd & FRIM

Figure 7: Phase and involvement of the Design Process

Figure 8:Design concept from FSPU Students & KUTAI Academia UiTM Perak


6. The Result ; BMS Application For Bamboo Bus Shelter Design

6.1 Cube Modular System Design

The idea of using cube structure as modular system is the basic method to the structural construction. Although it

seems like a simple shape, it is suitable to the natural shape of bamboo as the building materials for the bus shelter

to be constructed in the next phase. Based on the previous literature review, the cube structure is easier to be handled

especially in term of storage where the components are separated based on their functions. Moreover, it is portable

and easily functional with other component in future usage (Eisenmann, 2013).

In reality, there are several construction or design companies which have using cube modular system in their

products. Many of them have featured this concept based on its function and the strength itself. Cube modular

buildings are identical to traditional structures where the system offers a wide range of options as to the final

appearance. We believe that it is possible to design practically anything, from traditional to ultra-modern buildings.

Modules as basic building units of various sizes can be arranged in many different configurations depending on their

requirements. Compare to standard buildings, a significant difference is that cube are prefabricated in factories,

where all interior and exterior finishes, flooring, windows, doors, electrics, plumbing, fixtures and fittings are pre-

installed. The finished modules are then trucked to their destination, where they are assembled together on site. The

construction is not dependent on the weather and has no environmental impact from the use of heavy construction

machinery such as dust and noise, or other disturbances that commonly associated with regular building sites. The

speed of construction on site is incomparably faster than using traditional building procedures (Cubespace, 2010).

There is one interesting finding regarding modular cubes from an artist named Sol Lewitt when he started to do

some research on an open modular cube. The research revealed on the various combination cube structures to

function not only as the aesthetical elements but also to the architectural and engineering perspectives. Figure 9

shows Sol LeWitt’s modular structures originated from his exploration of the cube, which was the form that inspired

him throughout his career. Works in the L.A. Louver exhibition range from the seminal two - foot square modular,

1971, and two incomplete open cubes, each 41 1/2 inches square, from 1974, to the complex structure with three

towers in 1986 which standing more than 4 feet high and 11 feet across, will dominate the gallery floor space.

LeWitt’s interest in dividing the cube through triangulation will have the presence in the exhibition with pyramid in

1985, at over 6 feet high, and hanging complex form in 1989 that will descend from the ceiling, 11 feet 6 inches,

into the gallery. The structures are designed and created in painted wood, or painted or baked enamel on aluminum

(East, 2010)

Figure 9. Sol LeWitt, Structure with Three Towers,

1986, wood painted white, 4’ 3/4” x 11 1/2’ x 4’ 1/2”, 48 x 138 x 48 1/2 in. (121.9 x 350.5 x 123.2cm) © 2011

TheLeWitt Estate / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York. Source : http://www.lalouver.com

Figure 10. Modular Open Cube, 1976 by Sol

Lewitt.Source : http://www.multimedialab.be


6.2 Cube Structure Application on BMS

The selected design was chosen due to its approach in using the bamboo in Malaysian contemporary

architecture and in line with global requirements of sustainable development and green technology. The design is

not only effective on natural aspect, but also highlights the modular system as a feature of sustainable development

on bamboo architecture in particular. The indisputable advantages of innovative Cube Modular System including :

i. The possibility of year-round implementation

ii. High speed of construction

iii. Affordability

iv. Low cost of operation and maintenance

v. Variability

vi. The ability to change the layout

vii. Mobility

viii. Originality

ix. Modern design

x. Environmentally friendly

xi. An innovative technology

Figure 12 shows a simple cube shape of the BMS. Modular system has an impact on each component of the

connection. In order to test the strength and integrity of the Modular System Design, a testing prototype was then

built in 1:1 scale.

6.3 Construction Of Testing Prototype For Bms Designs.

Figure 13, 14 and 15 shows the development of the modular system prototype.”Gigantochloa scortechinii”

(Buluh Semantan) bamboo species was chosen in the construction for this prototype model based on population and

moderate durability though functionally, although it is not the best choice of bamboo species for the building

structure. However, it is used to show a major challenge in highlighting local species of bamboo in construction. A

modular cube structure measuring length of 375mm each side was constructed, while the connection system for the

cube structure is made from wood. The 375mm size measurement is the initial assumptions on the suitability of this

scaled modular cube structure. It is directly proportional to the weight and length of the span in accordance with the

invention was made.

Figure 12. A designer highlighting a Modular System as structural systems based on bamboo bus shelter

Figure 11. A selected design


Measurement accuracy of the modular cube size which is basically based on the load, the force of gravity, long

span and bending level can be determined by strength test and load test of a Modular Cube Prototype. The testing

result is still in the progress and will be discussed in the next phase. However, the improvement progress regarding

BMS design in the construction of Bamboo Bus Shelter is made based on the review of the performance of the

construction of this Prototype Testing that will be discussed further

6.3.1 Development of Cube Structure for BMS

6.3.2 Development of BMSComponent Connection

A B C D

Figure 14. Development (A to D) of a test prototype components for Bamboo Modular System design of this research

BMS Component

375mm Bamboo

Connection : Wood

Testing Prototype :

Bamboo Workshop

Figure 13: The flowchart of the construction of BMS components and its application to the construction of

testing Prototype which is the Bamboo Workshop.

Figure 15. The connector used in the system from wood material.


6.3.3 Testing Prototype : Bamboo Workshop

After the design and construction of BMS components phase was held together with industry panel which is

Design Principle Sdn. Bhd., the BMS is tested with the construction of Bamboo Workshop as the Testing Prototype.

The site is located in UiTM Seri Iskandar, Perak where the bamboo was built together with the students

themselves.The bamboo workshop will be tested in terms of design aspect, the construction, and it visual and

physical resistance. There are 78 components modular cube is constructed for this building. Each of the cube is

connected to the other structural cube using connection system shown in Figure 15. The construction took one full

day to be completed.

6.4 Result of Testing Prototype

Nearly 10 months after the construction process took place, there are some weakness of failures spotted on the

modular structural cubes (refer Figure 17). The cube structure which act as the beam for the Bamboo Workshop

seem to be bending downwards, differ from the early stage of construction. The early process did not show any

failures where all the cubes stay in the still condition. The discussion in finding the cause of the structural

weaknesses of modular cubes were conducted with industry partners and improvements carried out as discussed in

the next topic.

Figure 16: Temporary Bamboo Workshop construction process at UiTM Perak involving activities with FSPU students, KUTAI UiTM Perak Academia and the

Design Principles Sdn.Bhd. The combined results of series bamboo modular cube

designed are fundamental to the construction of this Bamboo Workshop.


The failure was spotted in the structure of modular cubes on the beam as Figure 17, and we believed it was

caused by the failure of the connection system used. Each connection on the beam for structural components

modular cube stretched which created intervals among the bamboo components. The connection condition was not

tight because of the different size of bamboo used, doupled with the weakness of the connection method between the

timber connection system and bamboo component using Nail Gun methods during installation. The size of the

connection system used is not compatible with long bamboo used as described in Figure 18. Openings for the

Bamboo Workshop’s beam will also play an important factor to the failure on the part of the structure of modular

cubes. Therefore, the improvement of the system for BMS connection is made and will be discussed in the next

phase.

6.5 Development of BMS Improvement for Bamboo Bus Shelter Design

A number of improvements were carried out on all aspects of BMS in realizing the construction of Bamboo Bus

Shelter. At this point, the phase of improvements carried out on the design aspect of Bamboo Bus Shelter and its

connection system. These improvements will affect the actual construction of Bamboo Bus Shelter to be carried out

Early Construction After 10 month Construction

Modular cube structure failure /

bending in the beam.

Figure 17: Modular cube structure looks like no slack in the initial construction. The failure

spotted in the beam where each component cannot sustain its gravity.

x

Bamboo Connection

Figure 18: The failure of the Modular Cubes structure due to system size or connection distance where the connection component "x" is inappropriate or too short to function as cube modular structural components in the beam. The length of "y" is unsufficient

to fit into the bamboo which is also seen as one of the factors of failure.

y


on the Final Phase. The durability and the performance test of selected bamboo in this research grant will be done

and will be discussed in the next paper.

6.5.1 Bamboo Bus Shelter Design Improvement

The designs that have been previously selected by Improvement Phase using several factors, among them is the

changes to the connection system and our results for Prototype Testing - Bamboo Workshop. As a result of

cooperation with the industry, the design of the bus shelter has been modified in terms of the structural components

of modular cubes, the size of the bamboo and its connection system. However, the aspects of building size and

structure of modular cubes was maintained as the best guideline in the construction of this Bamboo Bus Shelter.

Changes in the design aspects is consistent with contemporary architecture and architectural style which are

contiguous to the users, whose are the UiTM students. In addition to breathe new life into bamboo architecture,

improved designs are relevant to the needs of industry in accordance with the objectives of the research grant.

Figure 19: The design idea and process after some the improvement from the earlier Bamboo Bus

Shelter design stated in Figure 11.

Figure 20: New design after improvements made to the design in Figure 11- design idea that is simple and functional in every component of the structure. Components of bamboo structure in the modified beam using a longer component connecting to the vertical

or upright.cube modular structure component.


6.5.2 BMS Connection system Improvement

Improvements in the BMS connection system was made based on the spotted vulnerability as described

previously in Figure 18. By keeping the wood as the material in the construction of a new connection, the

improvements made in each component connections system. Components included in the bamboo as marked "x" in

Figure 18 is extended to 165mm diameter and size of the "y" is enlarged to 60mm. A new component of "putting"

was added and inserted to the connection system block as the basic structure of the connection system strength. The

block size for this connection system also grew in proportion to the size of the diameter of the bamboo used.

Figure 21: The latest extension system design as an improvement to the connections system used ain Figure 18.

Figure 22: Actual construction of the prototype system to BMS latest connectivity after improvements were made.

Figure 23: Bolt & Nut replenishment planning in addition to extensions component and system will be discussed in the next paper / other phases.


7. Conclusions

Through creativity and innovation, an example of a smart solution to the design problems can be highlighted. The

application of Modular System in a design does not only minimize the cost and energy used, but also produces

variety of system. BMS implementation is set to pave the way to commercialize bamboo as a contemporary building

style. The strength of this project was due to the support and cooperation of the industry and government on all

aspects. The combination of expertise not only facilitates the movement of research, but also provides positive

reinforcement towards the use of bamboo as a natural resource. This timely research is in line with the government's

efforts towards sustainable development and green technologies.

Acknowledgment

This research work was carried out with the collaboration and assistance of the Design Principles Sdn. Bhd and

FRIM (Forest Research Institute Malaysia). The study was supported by the Knowlegde Transfer Programme (KTP)

Scheme, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia.

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