• Energy Research

Co-generation of energy derived from human movement is not new. Intentionally accumulating energy, from mass urban-mobility, provides opportunities to re-purpose power. However, when mass-mobility is predictable, yet not harnessed, this highlights critical gaps in application of interdisciplinary knowledge. This research highlights a novel application of geostatistical modelling for the built environment with the purpose of understanding where energy harvesting infrastructure should be located. The work presented argues that advanced Geostatistical methods can be implemented as an appropriate method to predict probability distribution, density, clustering of populations and mass-population mobility patterns from large-scale online distributed and heterogeneous data sets published by the Australian Urban Research Infrastructure Network. Where clear urban spatio-behavioural relationships of density and movement can be predicted – understanding such patterns supports cross-disciplinary city planning and decision-making. A data-informed – predictive spatial decision-making framework is proposed – facilitating the endeavour of cogenerating kinetic human energy within a prescribed space. This novel proposition could further sustainability strategies for compact living for cities such as in Perth, Western Australia which is increasingly economically and geographically pressured to densify. This research argues that surveillance data elucidate a capacity to interpret and understand impacts of densification strategies, efficacy of CCTV networks in existing and emerging cities.

This research is built around extant theories on crime prevention through environmental design. An extensive observational appraisal of Northbridge, Perth’s premier entertainment precinct was undertaken, using an adaptation of Jan Gehl’s Quality Criteria research methodology. This involves an assessment matrix for evaluating urban space for protection, comfort and enjoyment. Moreover, the research employed an iterative design-led process, embedding affordance and surveillance principles into an urban design proposition for the case study precinct. Features of the proposed solution include design elements that were identified to dissuade impact, frequency and severity of criminal activities.