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Interacting Intelligences

Studio Project | Individual Work | December 2020

Instructor: Nicholas Hoban

This research investigates the potential of interactive structure that applies sensor-actuator system and data analytical tools to ameliorate the environment for both human and urban pollinators. At the micro level, it functions as an autonomous machine that collects information through sensing a variety of qualities. Through monitoring environmental performance and tracking behaviours of plants and pollinators, data collected would be analyzed and processed to alter the habitats for plants and pollinators. Data is visualized to raise people’s awareness of other living beings and thus to prompt the interactions. At the macro level, situated in urban Toronto, the structures form a mini-ecosystem, connecting existing large green spaces and establishing pathways for pollinators and ameliorate the urban heat island effect. At the urban scale, the structures form a system of network that could provide data about pollinator migration pattern or swarm areas; thus it could ultimately produce a data-driven learning network. Due to the pandemic, physical testings for the research were limited.

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This project investigates the potential of interactive structure that applies digital technology to ameliorate the environment for both human and urban pollinators. Situated in urban Toronto, it functions as an autonomous machine that collects information through sensing a variety of qualities. Through monitoring environmental performance and tracking behaviours of plants and pollinators, data collected would be analyzed and processed in two aspects. The garden-structure would alter the habitats for plants and pollinators under different conditions. In addition, through a digital platform, data is visualized to raise people’s awareness of other living beings and thus to prompt the interactions between the environment, pollinators, and humans.

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In Toronto, there are few designated bee friendly areas as in 2021. However, there are much more green spaces in contrast to the bee friendly areas, and these friendly areas are often over 2km away from each other. While bees typically forage within a radius of 1 to 2 kilometers from their colonies, a comprehensive approach necessitates the establishment of interconnected green areas, enabling species mobility while reducing competition for foraging habitats.

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The device is similar to a green roof structure, containing elements essential for plants, drainage, and irrigation. Additional elements 

Special attention is placed on the plants in the device. Since the primary audience is the bees, the flowers planted in the gardens should focus on the wellbeing of bees, particularly regarding the seasonal forage options. 

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