Expertise

Simulation | Geometry | Fabrication | Interaction

Simulation

Embedded project and process-centric iterative simulation expertise in the following areas:

Energy Modeling Using a variety of tools, Tech Studio runs early schematic energy models to assess design proposals in a comparative, broad-brush fashion.  These studies can inform building placement, massing, glazing ratios, and help inform early discussions about energy goals and targets.

Environmental Impact Assessing the environmental impacts is critical during early phases of design, while it is still cost-effective to make necessary changes to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.  LMNts employs Green Building Studio during the Discovery phase and then imports our full Building Information Model (BIM) into Ecotect for Schematic and Design Development benchmarking.

Daylighting Simulation People are happier and more productive in spaces with great daylight.  Additionally, building owners can reap considerable energy savings from smart daylight solutions.   LMNts uses Radiance and DAYSIM for photometrically accurate simulations, allowing design teams to gauge the useful daylight, illumination levels, and prevent glare.

HDRI Validation and Calibration LMNts uses High-Dynamic Range Imaging (HDRI) to capture light-probes: data about ambient luminance specific to our project sites.  This data can be used in our daylight simulations as well as production renderings.  Comparing our simulations to the built result allows us to accurately calibrate our models.

Pedestrian-Level Wind When it comes to understanding the experience of wind at a pedestrian level, CFD studies are often performed late in design to resolve pathology, instead of proactively and iteratively to shape the buildings on site.  LMNts runs full 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) studies to inform decisions about massing and building placement.

Natural Ventilation 2D-bulk Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) studies are used to predict the effectiveness of a design option with regard to natural ventilation, flow rates, temperature and occupant comfort.  Section-slice air-flow models allows us to run multiple options quickly.  Working in conjunction with our HVAC collaborators, we can fine-tune passive systems relative to the mechanical design.

Geometry

Just-in-time skills in advanced geometry, parametric modeling and generative approaches, employing:

Grasshopper LMNts uses Grasshopper as a tool for tackling complex geometry-related design problems, particularly those which benefit from the ability to parametrically explore multiple iterations.  It is also used to create customized tools that automate redundant modeling tasks, such as contour models, leading to savings in time and materials.

Fabrication

Digital Fabrication Processes Digital fabrication opens up the design process to new potentials and efficiencies.  LMNts has hands-on experience with process of generating the instructions for additive and subtractive CNC tools as well as carrying out the operation of those tools.

Model Preparation for 3D Rapid-Prototyping 3D rapid-prototyping requires a digital model to be more than just a pretty picture.  Models need to be cleaned up and made “water-tight” before they are ready to be printed.  With the right skills and tools this process can be straightforward, and allow a quick turn around from digital file to physical model.

Rationalization for Fabrication Geometric rationalization is the process of taking geometry and creating a logic for how that geometry can be physically built.  The process for building a box, with its six flats sides, can be fairly simple, but doubly curved surfaces become a bit more challenging.  Using our experience with digital modeling and fabrication techniques, LMNts offers assistance and strategies for rationalizing geometry.

Interaction

Creating better Communication & Collaboration Tools LMNts explores the edges of Interaction Design and Situated Media Design, Advanced Human-Computer Interfaces, Analytic and Data Visualization to create better design and communication tools.