Panagiotis Michalatos

Autozoner: an algorithm for automatic thermal zoning of buildings with unknown interior space definitions

In this paper, we present a general algorithm to automatically convert arbitrary building massing models into multi-zone building energy models (BEM). The algorithm follows current guidelines for thermal zone discretization of BEMs when actual interior space boundaries are yet undefined. Envisioned applications are for rapid model generation during schematic building design as well as for urban massing studies. We present an argument that current recommendations for separating core from perimeter zones effectively follow a straight-skeleton subdivision. Following a step-by-step explanation of the procedure, a number of example building shapes of varying complexity are shown to demonstrate the algorithms robustness and suitability for automated multi-zone BEM generation. Going forward, it is recommended that the algorithm is adopted by software developers to ensure more consistent thermal model production within the building simulation community.

MagicTorch: A Context-aware Projection System for Asymmetrical VR Games

MagicTorch is a context-aware projection mapping system connecting virtual reality (VR) head-mounted display (HMD) users, non-HMD users, together with the tangible physical space. Around this system, we create an asymmetrical multiplatform game CatEscape, where the players have distinct game mechanics and perspectives based on the devices they use: a survival game for VR player, an explorer game for augmented reality (AR) player, and a strategy game for tablet player. We use MagicTorch, a positional tracked portable projection system, to superimpose virtual objects onto physical environment, where the AR player can actively unveil the hidden dimension in the real world. This spatial AR system opens up novel possibilities of presentation methods.

Transvision: exploring the state of the visual field in the age of extreme augmentation

Human perception has long been influenced by technological breakthroughs. An intimate mediation of technology lies in between our direct perceptions and the environment we perceive. Through three extreme ideal types of perceptual machines, this project defamiliarizes and questions the habitual ways in which we interpret, operate, and understand the visual world intervened by digital media. The three machines create: Hyper-sensitive vision - a speculation on social medias amplification effect and our filtered communication landscape. Hyper-focused vision - an analogue version of the searching behavior on the Internet. Hyper-commoditized vision - monetized vision that meditates on the omnipresent advertisement targeted all over our visual field. The site of intervention is the visual field in a technologically augmented society. All the three machines have both internal state and external signal. This duality allows them to be seen from outside and experienced from inside.

CatEscape: An Asymmetrical Multiplatform Game Connecting Virtual, Augmented and Physical World

CatEscape is an asymmetrical multi-platform game connecting virtual reality (VR) head-mounted display (HMD) users, non-HMD users, together with the tangible physical space. The players have distinct game mechanics and perspectives based on the device they use: a survival game for VR player, an explorer game for augmented reality (AR) player, and a strategy game for tablet player. We use positional tracked portable projector to superimpose virtual objects onto physical environment, where the AR player can actively unveil the hidden dimension in the real world.

LumiSpace: a VR architectural daylighting design system

We built a VR daylighting design system for architects to design an indoor daylighting experience. With this system, users can import 3d models or meshes, and interact with the architecture in space. In particular users can draw the lighting areas they want and receive system-generated window opennings, given the sunlight conditions of a specific time and location. This research proposes a reversed design paradigm empowered by virtual reality technology, which puts the design of spatial experience first rather than the design of physical objects. That is, window design is determined as a result of daylighting experience.

Tensor shades

design & computation Art & Design Galleries 15 The Tensor Shades are light shades generated by the interrogation of structural information (stress tensor field) and desired lighting information (inverse illumination field). The project explores a process that preconditions the design space by combining these two types of spatial information in order to create a design that maintains structural integrity and formal consistency.