RESEARCH
LIQUIFER Systems Group initiates and conducts research in the areas of space design (habitats and vehicles) and in earth architecture and design. We are especially concerned with future scenariosi and the development of potentials in how we will live and work prductively and healthily.
Main themes are: transformation, deployable spaces, minimal space, self-sufficiency, work/life balance, activity-based working, knowledge communication and creating visionary scenarios for the future.
PRODUCTIVE AGEING DESIGN CONCEPTS
Im Vordergrund unseres Projektes zum Thema „Productive Ageing“ steht die Entwicklung von sozial nachhaltigen Strategien zur Gestaltung der Lebenswelt der Generation der „Boomer“ (* 1946-1964), die sich aufgrund der gestiegenen Lebenserwartung und ihrer spezifischen Ansprüche an Lebensqualität bei einem derzeitig strukturellen Vakuum für ihren kommenden Lebensabschnitt in einer Phase der Neuorientierung befindet.
BIORNAMETICS - Architecture Defined By Natural Patterns
(arts-based research project funded by FWF in the frame of PEEK 2009)
Role models from nature, static and dynamic patterns are be investigated and the findings applied to design strategies. The emergence of patterns in nature at all scales of existence of organisms as one of the most important signs of life – order – is not arbitrary, but highly interconnected with boundary conditions, functional requirements, systems requirements, material and structure. The main objectives are the exploration of aesthetic and functional interpretation for a new architecture together with the utilisation of new manufacturing technologies, and elaboration of the biomimetic design method and the “New Ornament”.
The purpose of the case study “Deployable Structures for a Lunar Base” within the field of Lunar Exploration Architecture was to investigate bionic concepts applicable to deployable structures and to interpret the findings for possible implementation concepts. The study aimed at finding innovative solutions for deployment possibilities. Translating folding/unfolding principles from nature, candidate geometries were developed and researched using models, drawings and visualisations. The use of materials, joints between structural elements and construction details were investigated for these conceptual approaches. Precursor projects inlcude TRANSFORMATION - Space / structure
The premise is that space architecture, like any other field of architecture, is evolving continuously and needs to be recognized as such. To better understand this evolution, the project classifies it in to three genres: the 1st genre [Voyage d'Esprit] comprises of concepts introduced through science fiction books and films, the 2nd genre [Man-in-a-Can] encompasses the spaceships designed and built by space agencies, and the 3rd genre [Trans-Gravity] is being shaped by professional architects and designers external to the traditional domain of space agencies.
The architectural design of a confined space during long duration missions and its relationship with psychological and physiological stressors are the subject of research.
This research aims to emphasize that habitat design constitutes one of the psychological countermeasures recommended for exploratory space missions. A well-designed habitat plays an essential role and in combination with other factors, such as adequate training, it contributes to minimizing the risk of "human failure"