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In traditional design system an artifact (vastu) is defined primarily by three of its attributes, viz. size, shape and orientation. Size is defined by dimensions and in case of built forms dimensions are derived from human proportions considered as an important linkage to be adapted. Orientation in traditions is defined by the relationship of the built form with respect to cardinal directions [Achuthan and Prabhu, 1998][i] and also with respect to the ‘centroid’ (Brahmanabhi) around which the built form orients and grows. This concept of orientation called Yoni (origin or orientation) is an astrological indicator hence has been kept out of the scope of this research.
Two system of units are used for direct measurements of length, one based on the grain size viz. yavamana, yava means barley grain and mana means measurement) and the other based on human figure viz. manusyapramana (human standard). The smallest unit of measurement in the anthropometric scale used in the traditional architecture is known as matrangula (Matra = unit, Angula = finger). Matrangula is a proportionate unit. The dimension of this unit is fixed as the length of the middle portion of the central finger of the right hand of the yajamanan (master for whom the building is to be constructed).
This scale has direct application in architecture which deals with space, element and structure for human use. The standard angulam, approximately equal to 3cm, the length of the middle phalange of the middle finger of man, is the basic unit in the scale. This basic unit is related to other human anthropometric dimensions in octal multiples and divisions. Figure above gives a graphic representation of the human standard. Table below gives the octal system of dimensions in traditional system and shows the derived units used in architectural design.
Table: Octal System of Dimensions
|
| Approximate equivalent in metric system |
80 paramanu | = 1 paramanu |
|
81 paramanu | = 1 trasarenu |
|
82 paramanu | = 1 valagra |
|
83 paramanu | = 1 liksa | = 0.059 mm |
84 paramanu | = 1 yuka (tila) | = 0.47 mm |
85 paramanu | = 1 yava | = 3.75 mm |
86 paramanu | = 1 angula | = 30 mm |
8^7 paramanu | = 1 pada | = 240 mm |
8^8 paramanu | = 1 vyama | = 1920 mm |
In modern system, SI units are universally accepted and adapted which do not conform to human dimensions or proportions (Thampuran, Prabhu, 1991)[i]. Traditional system is rooted in octal system that connects scale and proportions in built form based on human dimensions.
[i] Thampuran and Prabhu (1991), Scale and Proportion Used in Traditional Architecture, Paper published in the Journal of the Architectural Engineering Division, Institution of Engineers (India), Vol. 72, July 1991
[i] Achuthan , Prabhu (1998), An Engineering Commentary on Manusyalayacandrika of Tirumangalat Nilakanthan Musat, Calicut: Vastuvidyapratisthanam
Copyright : Dr. Harimohan Pillai . Architect
Archiestudio
Aradhana, 151 Priyadarsini Nagar
P. O. Ayyanthole
Thrissur, Kerala 680003
India
ph: +91 487 2381446
alt: +91 9447188446
archiest