AbeAnd Log

Sat Sept 3, 2016

I sent more emails to potential SME's mainly to colleges of architecture in states closer to FeF. reviewing more FreeCAD info in prep for today's Design Sprint. Preparing a list of questions about OSE structure and tools using google docs so I can search for answers or ask the OSE community. Looked at CEB Press content to try to gain functional understanding; Made some progress. I noticed functions in the google docs for collaboration I was not aware of before possibly new, but I need to brush up on Google docs. Reviewed CEB Press Design Sprint instructions. Downloaded and viewed files and watched beginners tutorials on FreeCAD. Informative, but I need a lot more practice with FreeCAD interface. Then there is all the prior build content on the CEB Press I am ignorant of.

Fri Sept 2, 2016

Started to review information about FreeCAD and tutorials. I have much to learn, but timing fits with my goal to learn FreeCAD this fall/winter. I am trying to understand FreeCAD limitations. I wonder if its python code base and scripting system can be used to overcome some shortfalls with plugins. I may need to get back to learning Python as well.

Thur Sept 1, 2016

After emails with Peter Cowman I think his living architecture philosophy may be helpful to OBI/OSE's design goals. Especially with the dilemmas around designing the Seed Eco-Home as an open source prototype show casing various technologies and the need to design the structure so it fits the needs of the individuals using the structure at Factor e Farm. Designing the structure so it is modular and can be adapted to other peoples' different needs in different locations where varying environmental conditions require variations on the structure and included technologies is important to OBI/OSE's overall goals. Peter's living architecture concepts remind me of elements in permaculture and natural designs used in earth ships as well. Peter says he is interested in sharing these ideas openly.

Further email with Peter Cowman reveals he is leaving soon for a trip to Bolivia. I emailed Marcin to inform him of the situation.

Wed Aug 31, 2016

Searched wiki for various information; Google doc wiki insertion/sharing protocols found nothing of significance. Since they are technically tied to an individuals google account they need to be shared & copied to OSE's account to eliminate possible loss of data I think.

From my experience needs at least one locally licensed & bonded architectural engineer. Presumable there has been previous experience with some for other projects, but I haven't found clear documentation on that yet. In searching the wiki for any reference to Seed Home rough blueprints CAD files etc. I don't see anything other than some slide shows and rough ideas mostly related to previous projects. So I am guessing what is meant by getting the calculations done is really finding engineers to create blueprints similar to imagery that can pass code and include prototype technologies.

Since Peter Cowman is not local (Ireland) I am currently thinking he may be most useful to advise on more general design aspects and improving home functionality through his living architecture design philosophy. I have seen many earth ship videos that show how they employ more efficient natural methods of ventilation and combining greenhouses to reduce heating and cooling as well. If there is enough interest from OBI/OSE community maybe he can do some general video conferencing lectures etc. I am searching for more detailed wiki links to Seed Home for Peter to look over so he will be prepared to consult with OBI/OSE management in whatever capacity possible.

I also emailed Community member Anthony for advice as well continuing correspondence with Peter Cowman on his possible role as a SME. He is interested and reviewing existing content on the Seed Eco-Home. I am also informing him more about OSE/OBI's design process and open source methodology.

I am searching for more architectural SME's that are more local to Factor e Farm's location and experienced with CEB construction. Possibly at more local colleges of architecture like the UO links.

Tue Aug 30, 2016

Creating work log to enter communications with architect Peter Cowman related to SME Design Sprint for designing OBI building prototype.

Peter is interested in working with OSE and thinks he can work within OBI/OSE open source rules, but is uncertain how his living architecture design philosophy can integrate with OBI and its open source deign process. Living architecture is about humans learning to build their structures sustainably, in harmony with the surrounding environment, and designing them to better fit humans natural needs. It generally involves the use of natural local materials to build small custom homes. Peter Cowman is currently located in Ireland, but has traveled and lectured extensively.

One dilemma of open source is how to design prototypes so that users can take the underlying designs and adapt them to suit their personal needs and local environment. The prototype home OBI will build needs to both demonstrate a broad variety of easy to use sustainable technologies and fit the specific needs of Factor e Farm and those who will utilize it. Not all technologies are a good fit for everyone in any environment. The adaptability of open source is its biggest advantage, but flexibility and modularity must be designed in.

Also searching for other contacts within OSE for further guidance on Peter's possible role.

I've also searched for architecture with CEB's and found some links to schools of architecture in areas closer to Factor e Farm and will continue searching for more since I do not see many triple green check marks on the SME page and I assume more local engineers and architects will be needed for hands-on assistance and lectures.

http://www.ou.edu/content/architecture/centers/ceb/ceb-photos1.html

http://www.ou.edu/architecture/centers/ceb/ceb-and-cchh.html

http://www.midwestearthbuilders.com/BuildingInfo.html