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Buffer Inversion | Modular Sandstorm Protection Facade

Sandstorm Event Analysis - volume and lateral Force
The design structure is a facade modular system that aims to invert and utilize the destructive force from the sandstorm for protective force. The panel facade system is adaptable to facades of existing buildings, with dynamic open/close configurations suitable for different weather conditions.
The force of the sandstorm is buffered and absorbed structurally, the destructive force is inverted to support the facade itself as a shield by a rotating fulcrum. 
Initial Conceptual Solutions- energy flow studies
On the contact vertical surface level: 1) modular panels spreading and dividing pressure points equally over a larger facade area; 2) a layering of elastic screens disturb the direct lateral forces of the wind creating anti-resonance; and 3) Filter sand particles and trickle down the system discharging the sand volume received. Vertical panels interlock on the same plane by a slanted contact angle forcing a one way rotational angle when subjected to storm. The cumulative dynamic creates interlocks and pressure-balances the whole facade system.
The steel connector could potentially be rolled up and stacked when there are no potential sandstorms, for open ventilation and exterior exposure. When opened, the panels could function as cantilevered small balcony rack. 
Inversion + Buffer Layers - final modular panel system diagram
Rendering of Final Design in Action - two different scenarios

Buffer Inversion | Modular Sandstorm Protection Facade
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Buffer Inversion | Modular Sandstorm Protection Facade

Building Structures Fall 2017 | This course project is a conceptual adaptive system designed to perform under extreme sandstorm conditions. The p Read More

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