Introduction
In order to integrate the individual parametric models, emphasis was placed on optimizing accessibility to the observation tower. To ensure a comfortable ramp for end-users, the slope and curvature of the ramp leading to the hill and the entrance of the tower were designed for ease of use.
Development of the model
First, the ramp slope adjustment alters the length of the ramp and affects other parameters such as the retaining wall length and height, groundwater system length, and the number of tower floors. Secondly, the height of the retaining wall parameter influences the height of the groundwater system and the length and height of the ramp. Lastly, modifying the ramp width has a direct impact on the tower entrance as the ramp serves as the direct access point.
High-performance design criteria
In order to assess the performance of the integrated model, the following high-performance criteria are considered:
- Water retention by height of retaining wall
- User accessibility by width and slope of ramp
- Operational efficiency and safety
- Dimensional flexibility by adjusting ramp length through changing the distance of the tower from the retaining wall. As well as changing the height of the tower and its footprint.
Integration Challenge
The integration of four separate systems posed several challenges due to the semi-bottom-up approach required for consolidating the individual concepts into a unified urban park system. Upon analysis, the following four main challenges emerged during the integration process:
- Repurposing the pavement by changing the slope and the curvature.
- Unifying control parameters by having parameters that adjusts the rest of the systems connected to it.
- Defining the connection between the pavement, the retaining wall and the aquifer.
- Connecting the pavement to the entrance of the tower making the necessary curves.
Design Alternatives
Three design alternatives were evaluated for the urban system, consisting of minimum, medium, and maximum parameter values. It is noted that any changes to a single parameter’s value will alter the structure of related systems.
