The seminar explores a series of methodologies, that incorporate advanced design thinking, generative algorithms and mass customized fabrication in existing industrial processes.
This development is accompanied with novel interfaces for robotic programming and large-scale automated construction.
Digital Fabrication is an introductory course on new production techniques through the relation between computer data and machine-oriented fabrication.
CNC machines were introduced in the middle of the 20th century into industry, changing the conception of the production of objects and parts (mainly in the automotive and military industries, and then into mass-consumed products). The relationship between architecture and digital fabrication CAD / CAM processes in architecture is not new anymore, it started during the last two decades of the XXth century, bringing in a new relationship that is not only affecting the way architecture is produced but is changing the way machines are constructed and conceived for the production of architecture.
At first, the relationship between architecture and digital fabrication has been focused on the production of non-standard parts/components and on the speculation of forms as an end itself. Instead, the seminar will focus on geometry and machines as a means to develop a performance-based design with efficient fabrication methods.
Learning Objectives and Methodology
This 3-week seminar will be structured in weekly phases to reflect a different technology per phase.
Through digital fabrication, tackling architecture details becomes an exciting new field of exploration for designers. The central theme of the weekly exercises revolves around the development of modular components of vertical building elements. Every week, teams are requested to bring new iterations of their work, incorporating novel aspects from three common digital fabrication processes: Laser Cutting, CNC milling and 3D Printing. You have both weekdays and weekends to collaborate on your projects, both digitally and physically (a lot can be explored and learn about matter behaviour without the use of digital machines).
Throughout the seminar, the first day of each phase will include an introductory lecture. Subsequently, students will explore fabrication parameters along with practical sessions with the goal of designing and prototyping their object. Each team will be provided by fabrication slots with the opportunity to use the machines in the lab in order to materialise their design. Students are requested to bring their files ready for production. Any doubt should be resolved previously.
Additionally, each week will include a “Fabrication Review” where students will have the opportunity to analyse the final object, review the design and learn about new processes and techniques under the guidance and support of tutors. The review will mainly be based on physically developed work. Students can show fabrication explorations, photos or diagrams during these reviews. Digital 3D models will not be allowed in the review.
By the end of the course, every student should be familiar with digital modelling, fabricating, documenting and assembly of a structure. Students should be able to devise strategies to translate geometries into articulated constructible solutions, produce the CAD-CAM files for production and use the CNC machines independently. During the course, students will also learn the principle of a FabLab and learn how to use this collaborative maker space in a safe, clean and respectful way.
Laser Cutting | Folded Flakes Laser cutting, a precision-focused technique, revolutionizes the art of crafting by using a high-powered laser to precisely slice through various materials with immaculate accuracy. Whether it’s intricate designs on wood, metal, acrylic, or fabric, laser cutting brings imagination to life with clean, sharp edges and detailed patterns. This technology merges … Read more
LASER CUTTING I INTERACTIVE FACADE An interactive facade system crafted using the precise technique of laser cutting. This project is a testament to the harmonious blend of creativity and technology. Our journey began with a vision to create a facade system that was not only aesthetically pleasing but also interactive, adding a dynamic element to … Read more
Laser Cutting – Pulsing Bloom Inspired by the dynamic movement of flower petals as they bloom, the panel would be part of a kinetic facade that mimics nature and interacts with its environment. Technical Drawings Production and Material Data Final Outcome Visualization as a Facade Element 3D Printing – Gyroid as a Vertical Element Concept … Read more
The underlying theme that drove the designs for this seminar was “flow”. Inspired by the flowing movements of water in particular, our forms were developed from ripples, waves, and whirlpools. Laser Cutting | Tessellations 3D Printing | Droplets CNC | The Twist Laser Cutting | Tessellations A simple tessellated surface with small gaps in between … Read more
Group Z.2 Origami – LASER CUTTING Taking inspiration from light-filtering facade systems such as that of the SDU Campus Kolding by Henning Larsen, Al Bahr Towers by AEDAS, and the Japan Pavilion for Expo 2020 by Yuko Nagayama and Associates, ORIGAMI is a facade prototype composed of a grid system to host panels or ‘flowers’ … Read more
The Twist (3d Printing) Concept & Form Finding Our 3D printing project embodies the fusion of functionality and aesthetic sophistication, drawing inspiration from the elegance of louvers panels and the captivating allure of twisted architectural forms. This design merges the simplicity of the plus sign with a mesmerizing twist, creating an engaging visual effect that … Read more
Group Y1 A series of experiments, to reflect on internality, movements away from the outside and to look upon it. A swift movement which engulfs you, a series of lines to project your light through, an open face held in deep space by many arms. There is nothing outside to look at, if you don’t … Read more
Over the span of the Digital Fabrication course, we actively explored and examined the possibilities and constraints inherent in the three fabrication methodologies concerning both design and manufacturing. Throughout this process, we conducted experiments involving various materials and machines, employing CNC Milling, Laser Cutting, and 3D Printing techniques. Our aim was to gain a comprehensive … Read more
The project exemplifies the synergy of light dynamics, natural aesthetics, and sound harmonics using advanced digital fabrication. Laser-cut intricate strips, interlocking seamlessly, are reinforced for structural support, providing customizable light modulation. In 3D printing, the organic growth of Mycelium is abstracted, creating a visually impactful panel system conducive to vegetation growth. The CNC design embodies … Read more
Panot de Barcelona 01 – LASER CUTTING Flor de Barcelona – a symbol of Barcelona and the evidence that the city is eclectic, creative and full of surprises FIRST PROTOTYPE : Beginning of “Trial and error”. With this particular form, the petals were unable to rise. The flower’s body/frame was too delicate and unstable. Using … Read more
MOVEMENTSThe ideation revolved around exploring the nature of movements, as they express themselves in environment, forms, dimensions and spaces. Humans perceive this notion as a bridge to liveliness & entropy. The studio, ‘Introduction to Digital Fabrication’, aimed at understanding fabrication dialogues through the technology of Laser Cutting, 3D Printing & CNC Milling, where these projects were developed. … Read more
