Husri 2015

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Chapter 54

Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco


Architecture

Zafuan Husri, Mohd Sabrizaa Abd. Rashid, Suzana Said,


and Razali Kamisan

Abstract Modular system architecture offers potential benefits of improving


flexibility in function allocation, reducing development costs, and improving main-
tainability and durability. This paper presents a design idea based on Bamboo
Modular System (BMS) which is applied to the design of a Bamboo Bus Shelter
which will be the New Eco Architecture concept for public use in Malaysia. Bamboo
has a great potential in the construction industry, especially on its application to
architectural design. The advantages of bamboo are that it is cheap, flexible, and
tough (a lightweight material).

Keywords Bamboo architecture • Architecture modular system design • Sustainable


development • Eco architecture

54.1 Introduction

Bamboo is used as one of the valuable natural construction materials due to its
strength and aesthetic value. The strength and durability of bamboo are the main
characters that clarify the appropriateness of their architectural application. In terms
of its structural properties, bamboo is well known as an extremely strong fiber, with

Knowledge Transfer Program (KTP) Research Grant Scheme, Ministry of Higher Education
(Malaysia).
Z. Husri (*) • M.S.Abd. Rashid
Centre for Knowledge & Understanding of Tropical Architecture & Interior (KUTAI),
Universiti Teknologi MARA, UiTM (Perak), Seri Iskandar Campus, 32610
Bandar Seri Iskandar, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia
e-mail: wasatiaharch@yahoo.com
S. Said • R. Kamisan
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Surveying, Universiti
Teknologi MARA, UiTM (Perak), Seri Iskandar Campus, 32610 Bandar Seri Iskandar,
Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia

© Springer Science+Business Media Singapore 2015 525


O.H. Hassan et al. (eds.), International Colloquium of Art and Design
Education Research (i-CADER 2014), DOI 10.1007/978-981-287-332-3_54
526 Z. Husri et al.

twice the compressive strength of concrete and roughly the same strength-to-weight
ratio of steel in tension, which allows it to handle long spans in an architectural
design [1]. The aesthetic value can be perceived from its use on the concept of
sustainable technology and green architecture. Proven by some experiments, many
researchers recognize the efficiency of the high-performance and ultra-economical
technology of bamboo [2]. By putting some effort on creativity and innovation, the
use of bamboo for architectural design can be enhanced. Modular system architec-
ture, such as integrated modular avionics (IMA) in the aerospace sector, is being
seen as offering the potential benefits of improving flexibility in function allocation
and reducing development and construction costs, as well as a mean of managing
the ever present issues of technology obsolescence and update [3]. A more promis-
ing approach is the attempt to create a modular, compositional approach to
constructing safety arguments which has a correspondence with the structure of the
underlying system architecture.
However, to establish such arguments will require a system architecture which
has been designed with explicit consideration of enabling properties such as
independence (e.g., including both noninterference and location “transparency”),
increased flexibility in functional integration, and having low coupling between
components [3]. Based on these initiatives, this paper will discuss on the develop-
ment of a new eco architectural design innovations, where the study will be based
on the potential of bamboo in modular system application.

54.2 Program Background

This program is basically created as an initiative to use bamboo towards producing


a new eco contemporary architecture technology, since they are easily found in our
natural tropical setting. The combination of traditional techniques with new tech-
nologies through the use of bamboo will create a contemporary vernacular architec-
ture style. In terms of economic growth, it has the potential to be marketed locally
and internationally. For the initial stage, the focus in this program is the production
of a bus shelter design for public use. A bus shelter, created from bamboo design,
will lead a new character and identity for cities in Malaysia. Indirectly, it will allow
an image of implementing the green technology and sustainable development in
Malaysia. It will also have an impact on the local tourism industry, which then will
be a path of generating profit. The new design will be introduced and marketed to
local authorities and local government. This project combines experiences of Design
Principles Sdn. Bhd. together with KUTAI (Centre for Knowledge & Understanding
of Tropical Architecture & Interior, UiTM Perak) and FSPU (Faculty of Architecture,
Planning and Surveying, UiTM Perak) as well as the involvement of FRIM (Forest
Research Institute Malaysia) as a consultant for tropical forests. This robust
collaboration is expected to produce a new contemporary architectural design using
bamboo with high commercial value.
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 527

54.3 Bamboo Species and Its Characteristics


in Peninsular Malaysia

Bamboo is found in abundance although they are widely scattered in about five
percent of the total forest reserve area in Malaysia [4]. Malaysia is endowed with
more than 50 species of bamboo, wherein 25 of them are indigenous, while the rest
are exotics [5]. The function and the applications of each bamboo are related to their
species and characteristics. However, based on Abd. Razak and Abd. Latif, 1995,
only 13 species out of the total species are known to be commercially utilized. This
consists of Bambusa blumeana (buluh duri), B. vulgaris (buluh aur/minyak), B. het-
erostachya (buluh galah), Gigantochloa scortechinii (buluh semantan), G. levis
(buluh beting), G. ligulata (buluh tumpat), G. wrayi (buluh beti), and Schizostachyum
brachycladum (buluh lemang) which are widely used in furniture, basketry, craft,
parquet, and structural application [6].
The use of bamboo in the construction industry and architecture is based upon
appropriate selection of bamboo, which is seen through the bamboo characteristics
themselves. The information is very important to assess its suitability and compat-
ibility for various end products and usage [7]. On the other hand, their physical and
mechanical properties are closely related to structural application [7]. Besides that,
the research on the anatomical, physical, and mechanical properties is also important
for the selection of appropriate bamboo species for industrial use, building
construction, and housing [8]. The parameters used are the anatomical properties
such as fiber length, vascular bundle distribution, and size, as well as cell wall thick-
ness, while the physical properties measured are their moisture content, density, and
shrinkage. On the other hand, the mechanical properties measured include shear,
compression, and bending strength of a bamboo [4].

54.4 Bamboo Usage in Malaysia

The frequency of bamboo construction in Malaysia is still at the lowest point. The
bamboo industry in Malaysia goes back to 1950, when bamboo was commonly
exploited for craft and agricultural needs years ago [4]. Most of bamboos are used
for production of handicrafts, weaving walls, fences, vegetable containers, and
hogs. However, bamboo is believed to be very close with people’s lives in tropical
regions, especially in the Malay world. It has become an integral element in
traditional Malay architecture besides wood, palm trees, and rattan, where Malay
vernacular architecture is highly admired because of its eco-friendly architecture
and custom-friendly and user-friendly culture.
The use of bamboo for the construction industry and architecture requires appro-
priate selection of bamboo though. This information is essential in order to test
whether it is compatible with various products [9]. In addition, the study on the
anatomical, physical, and mechanical properties is also important for the selection
528 Z. Husri et al.

Fig. 54.1 Ihsaniah Iskandariah Mosque, Perak, Malaysia, in 1938. Its walls were made of woven
hand cut bamboo strips and it had no minaret

of suitable species of bamboo for industrial use, construction, and housing [4].
Figures 54.1 and 54.2 show typical utilization of bamboo as construction materials.

54.5 Bamboo as New Eco Architecture for Sustainable


Development

Bamboo is one of the most sustainable building materials found in natural habitat
[10]. It is a renewable natural resource with simple physical attributes and known as
an environmentally friendly material because the waste from the development is
nonpolluting and can be easily disposed. Through new technologies on preservation
and conservation, bamboo construction will be more durable with better performance.
Apparently, there are many types of designs that help to solve problems regarding
bamboo architecture over the years. Starting with simple drawings and constant fol-
low up and finally with building model, we can fill the technological gap by adding
the scientific knowledge and technological expertise to make the locally available
material; bamboo to be more acceptable and demanding stronger construction,
enhancing durability as well as the practicality [11]. Figures 54.3 and 54.4 show the
versatility of bamboo as a structural material.
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 529

Fig. 54.2 Examples of school building design using bamboo in Bali by PT Bambu architects.
Indonesia gained worldwide attention on the use of bamboo and potential of new design

Fig. 54.3 Shoei Yoh: Project “grating-shell construction” in Chikuho-Fukuoka

Typically, sustainability of the built environment focuses on the adaptation of


local materials to utilize the natural resources of the local environment. By adapting
them to the surroundings, for instance, the building utilizes the natural resources of
530 Z. Husri et al.

Fig. 54.4 Curve bamboos as column (courtesy of Simon Velez)

light, ventilation, and vegetation to allow it for more efficient operation. The main
aim is to reduce the impact on the environment and its usage and occupancy, as well
as to minimize the operation costs of the building for the whole life span [12].

54.6 Architecture Modular System Design

The existence of a modular system for each design will provide a holistic positive
impact not only on consumers but also on the designers themselves. Recently, mod-
ularity is considered a promising tool to develop a variety of products using the
same modules of components known as platforms [13]. A modular principle offers
a firm to build complex product through the integration or assembly of smaller mod-
ules or subsystems which are developed independently but function together as a
whole [14]. This type of architectural system contains modules that can be used as
self-contained building blocks for high-level systems. Each module will interact
with another through standardized interfaces that define functional spatial and other
relationships among the components [15]. While modular components is developed
autonomously by different groups, coordination of the overall development process
is generated because of the presence of interface specifications embedded in the
architecture; therefore, it will shift the burden of coordination away from manage-
rial authority [16].
In addition, modularity is a mean to accommodate uncertainty [17]. It is flexible
because standardized interfaces will allow for variations in components [19] that
may be substituted in response to market and technological changes [18] (Figs.
54.5, 54.6, 54.7, 54.8, 54.9 and 54.10).
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 531

Fig. 54.5 The conceptual form of modular system application

Fig. 54.6 An intriguing structure of pyramid concept

54.7 Design Method for BMS

The design for the Eco Bus Shelter was made by UiTM Perak’s students with super-
vision by the faculty members from the Faculty of Architecture, Planning and
Surveying who are also actively involved in KUTAI activity. The design concepts
are based on these criteria:
Fig. 54.7 “Sierpinski
pyramid” structures based on
modular system design from
Archinoma Modular System
Product, UK, 2011

Fig. 54.8 A sophisticated


triangulated structure
strengthening the
construction of mobile tent

Fig. 54.9 Application of modular system on LEGO company product – LEGO architecture
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 533

Fig. 54.10 A basic building


construction of Lego through
the segregation of floors,
walls, pillars and roofs.

• 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
• Creating an efficient and sustainable construction system
• Easily operated and updated in terms of structure
• Minimal construction cost and easy to market
The design process was carried out in two phases: the production of concept and
ideas and the improvement and development of the design. The two phases were
successfully conducted and developed by the available expertise at KUTAI in UiTM
Perak. Product suitability is determined by the Design Principles Sdn. Bhd. as an
industry pioneer (Fig. 54.11).
There were seven designs produced by the students as a result of their participation
to this research. The three best designs that meet the research criteria and objectives
were selected to be developed in the next phase (Figs. 54.12 and 54.13).
For the last progress of design phase, the best design was selected based on
creativity, flexibility, and functionality.
534 Z. Husri et al.

Fig. 54.11 Phase and involvement of the design process

Fig. 54.12 Design concept from FSPU students and KUTAI Academia UiTM Perak

54.8 The Result: BMS Application for Bamboo


Bus Shelter Design

The selected design was chosen due to its approach in using the bamboo in Malaysian
contemporary architectural context and in line with global requirements of sustain-
able development and green technology. The design is not only effective on natural
aspect but also highlights the modular system as a feature of sustainable develop-
ment on bamboo architecture in particular.
Figure 54.14 shows a simple cube shape of the modular system. 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 built in 1:1 scale.
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 535

Fig. 54.13 Selected inventions to be taken to the next phase and built as a prototype model

Fig. 54.14 A designer highlighting a modular system as structural system based on Bamboo Bus
Shelter
536 Z. Husri et al.

54.9 Construction of Testing Prototype for BMS designs

Figure 54.15 shows the development of the modular system prototype.


Gigantochloa scortechinii (buluh semantan) is the selected bamboo species to be
used in the construction of this prototype model based on population and moderate
durability, though functionally, it is not the best choice of bamboo species for
building structure, but it is a major challenge in highlighting local species of
bamboo in construction.
A modular cube structure measuring length of 375 mm for each side was
constructed, while the connection system for the cube structure is made from wood.
The 375 mm size measurement is the initial assumption on the suitability of this

Fig. 54.15 Development


(a–d) of test prototype
components for Bamboo
Modular System design of
this research
54 Bamboo Modular System (BMS) for New Eco Architecture 537

Fig. 54.16 The connector used in the system from wood material

Fig. 54.17 Temporary Bamboo Workshop construction process at UiTM Perak involving activi-
ties 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

scale modular cube structure. It is directly proportional to the weight and length of
the span in accordance with the invention that was made.
Measurement accuracy of modular cube size is based on the load, the force of
gravity, long span, and level bendisng. It can be determined by strength test and load
test of a Modular Cube Prototype. For the time being, the testing phase is still in the
progress and will be discussed in the next phase (Figs. 54.16 and 54.17).
538 Z. Husri et al.

54.10 Conclusions

Through creativity and innovation, a variety of smart solutions to the design


problems are highlighted. For example, applications of modular system in a design
did not only minimize the cost and energy used in a building construction, but it is
seen more workable as a holistic system. Modular system implementation and
application of this project not only has given impact on the design but also has
indirectly commercialized bamboo as a contemporary building style.
The strength of this project was due to the support and cooperation of the indus-
try and government in all aspects. The collaboration of expertise in each side not
only facilitates the movement of research but also provides positive reinforcement
towards the use of bamboo as a natural resource. This research is timely in manner,
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 KTP Scheme, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education
(Malaysia).

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