Christopher Kaltenbach
Inspired by UAE watchtowers, this design utilizes a car's shell to monitor insect migration sustainably. It offers public access for real-time observations while contributing to radar entomology research.
The IMR (Insect Monitoring Radar) Tower, inspired by the UAE's historical defensive towers like the Al Bidyah mosque watchtower, addresses the urgent need for sustainable agricultural protection against invasive insect species. The tower proposes a radar system currently under development by Dr. Lutfi Albasha, Dr. Hasan Mir and Dr. Christopher M. Kaltenbach for monitoring insect migration in the UAE.
The architectural design reuses a car's hollowed shell standing over 6 metres with a 5.75-meter elliptical footprint, the steel-framed tower features two platforms. Platform One, accessed by a detachable staircase, allows visitors to observe a simulation of real-time insect movement on an LED display. Platform Two, reached by a pull-down ladder, offers elevated views and in the future will house the electronics for operating the antenna.
The tower will be open to the public during limited hours, with technicians providing additional information about this research project. Ultimately, this installation will contribute to a publishable paper, highlighting the prototype IMR Tower as both a functional structure and a symbol of radar entomology in the UAE.
About Christopher Kaltenbach:
Christopher Mark Kaltenbach, Ph.D., is the founding director of the interdisciplinary design studio actionfindcopypaste, serving clients such as Sony, Kirin, Mitsubishi Jisho, Aigle, and the UNM Art Museum. With experience in design and education across Australia, Canada, Japan, Macau, and the U.S., he is currently an Associate Professor at the American University of Sharjah. Since 2013, Kaltenbach has expanded his design practice to include environmental advocacy. His 2019 Ph.D. in Architecture and Urban Design from RMIT University focused on reframing the insect through design. His writing is featured in the book “Insectum” and Dutch magazines FRAME and MARK.
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