"Candles in a Field"
...the similarity between shafts of wheat blowing in the breeze and
candle flames
Objectives
- Understanding of basic principles of low velocity airflow around and/or across a constructed object.
- Ability to conceive of, and develop a methodology for investigating low velocity airflow around and/or across a constructed object.
- Awareness of the potential for architectural form to influence airflow patterns.
Measurable Outcomes
- Visual demonstration of basic airflow principles.
- 3 iterations of the constructed object.
- Written and graphic presentation (record) of the evidence.
- Documentation should indicate one or more descriptive characteristics of airflow which have been illuminated.
validate laminar airflow...
Proposed Methodology
Prepare a 3-dimensional architectonic or sculptural object with an accumulative dimension (L+W+H) of 36”. In addition, provide means or a device to generate an airflow performance.
To visualize the flow of air, the prepared object will be placed within a field of lit candles to test the airflow patterns which are created around the piece as acted upon through the air performance. By examining the flickering and/or the extinguishing of the flames, a discussion of airflow patterns is developed.
Cautionary Notes
- Use of fire and heat
- Implications of smoke (fire alarm, sprinklers)
Optional Experiment:
Instead of candles, think of other media that will be able to show the physical effect or impact of airflow. When we study drifing snow or sand, the end effect is a sculpture that shows the force of the wind. Something inexpensive and less dangerous might be some very lightweight feathers...
If you have access to a water flow tank, then the addition of dyes in the flowing water can also reveal flow patterns. This testing device is used by professional companies when they conduct snow drifting tests around buildings.