The project is about designing a kinetic façade — a building envelope that moves or adapts dynamically depending on external conditions (sunlight, heat, wind, user needs). Instead of a static façade, the kinetic system can respond in real time to improve energy efficiency, daylight quality, and occupant comfort.
It can reduce solar heat gain by shading when needed.
It can maximize natural light without glare.
It can create aesthetic dynamism — the building feels alive.
I care about this project because:
It links sustainability and technology in architecture.
Cities with hot climates (like Cairo, Gulf cities, or Mediterranean areas) suffer from excessive solar radiation, which increases cooling loads. A kinetic façade can cut energy costs while improving comfort and indoor quality.
Personally, I’m passionate about computational and sustainable architecture — kinetic design combines both fields perfectly.
This is the main mechanism
Tools
Design phase
Lazer cutting
3D
Lazer Cutting:
El Malky ML149 CO2 Laser Cutter- Tool
RDWorks-V8 - Program
Plywood 3mm
3D Printing:
Prusa i3 MK2S machine - Tool
Ultimaker cura - Program
PLA- Material
Lazer Cut
Laser Parameter
Set the Plywood 3mm
Stablize it
Dont forget to focus
Download the File
3D Print
Upload the pieces
Fix the parameters
Clean the sheet
Load the Filament
Watch the first layer
now Wait
Step 1:
Watch Youtube videos for inspiration
Step 2:
Prepare the circuit simulation. Use LDR as input and Servo as output.
Step3:
Write a code. The code check sensors reading via IF CONDITIONS. If the sensor reads High, the servo rotates . And if low it goes to the original position.
Step 4:
Implement the circuit on the bread board
Figuring out how to power the project wasn’t as easy as I thought. At first, I wanted to use just one power source for everything, but that didn’t really work. The Arduino needs around 9V to run properly, while the servo motor can only take 5V. If I gave the servo 9V, it would probably burn out. If I gave the Arduino only 5V, it wouldn’t be as stable. So the best solution was to give each one what it needs: the Arduino runs on a 9V battery, and the servo has its own 5V battery. This way both parts get the right amount of power, and the system runs smoothly without problems. To make it clear, I marked the inputs as “Arduino: 9V” and “Servo: 5V” so there’s no confusion when plugging them in.
Servo Motor
Arduino
9V Adapter
5V Adapter
LDR Sensor
Since I am a beginner in coding, I used code blocks to aid me. As well as using only one function which is the servo motor.
Connect components with tslots and bracket
Set the pinion component in the gear
Attach it to the bakc frame
Build the enclosure, Do not forget the wire openings
Trial
First demo
I still find it hard to comprehend the complete concept of circuits. I thought in the beginning that i only need power to my Arduino. My instructor has stated that the servo motor also needs a power source and Arduino is not enough.
A major mistake I made was design my components at the exact measurements, but did not leave any extra gap. This caused minor inconveniences.
It was not enough
YAAAAAAAAAY
Make the project on a bigger scale, I want to make a wall full of the the kinetic module. Perhaps I will make an architectural project with this prototype. In addition, I am curious if i added an LED hexagonal frame to create and nice aesthetics.
Closed Facade
Half open half close
Building