REACTIVE SOURCE: Introduction to electronics


Syllabus

Image credits: MRAC 24/25 Hardware I VibeInk.2000 

Data is rapidly transforming how architects design and evaluate processes, enabling environments and workflows to be measured, recorded, and interpreted in new ways. In this seminar, we explore the concept of the reactive source: how information from multiple sources can be gathered, structured, and understood as a parameter of a process. Students will learn to work with IoT devices and basic electronic components, including microcontrollers and simple modules, to capture data and examine its relevance to architectural, infrastructural, environmental or robotic processes.

The focus of the course is on reactive sources and data methodology: students will develop strategies to select, log, and interpret multiple streams of information, exploring how these measurements can serve as parameters within a process. Sources may be diverse and not directly intuitive to the defined process, encouraging abstraction and multi-modal thinking.

By the end of the seminar, students will have foundational skills in IoT and basic electronic devices, data collection, and experimental methodology. They will understand how raw information can be framed as meaningful parameters that guide design and fabrication workflows. This course establishes a strong basis in data methodology, providing a foundation for future exploration of predictive AI and more advanced analytical approaches.

 

Learning Objectives
At course completion the student will:

  • Understand basics of microcontrollers, actuators, and circuits.
  • Connect and operate sensors and actuators to collect and monitor data.
  • Develop a methodology for selecting, logging, and structuring multiple sources of information.
  • Analyze how data can serve as parameters within physical or infrastructural processes.
  • Recognize how processes and data form the foundation of AI in robotics fabrication.

Faculty


Faculty Assistants


Projects from this course

Acoustic Skin

An Intelligent, Shape-Shifting Sound Control System 01 | Project Abstract Acoustic Skin is an acoustic panel that morphs its surface geometry in real time to control the way sound interacts with the environment.
 It uses an array of miniature pistons embedded in a felt-covered membrane, behaving like a living, breathing skin that adapts its texture … Read more

Starmi: Folding facade

From Concept to Working Prototype Content research Before developing STARMI, research explored integrating electronic hardware into architectural design. The study examined responsive building systems, sensor technology, and kinetic principles, identifying origami-based folding facades as ideal for combining geometric adaptability with environmental responsiveness. This investigation into sensors, microcontrollers, and mechanical actuation established the foundation for an … Read more

ComforTECH: Intelligent environmental control system

This project showed how real-time, intelligent control can transform buildings into more comfortable and efficient spaces. By replacing static systems with adaptive regulation, we can reduce energy waste while creating healthier, more responsive environments for the people who use them. Concept Modern indoor spaces often fall short of providing true comfort and efficiency because they … Read more

Thermo – Acoustic Urban Pavilion

01 | Concept 02 | Resonance 03 | Prototype 04 | Components 05 | Circuit diagram If the temperature inside the pavilion is high or the noise level outside is high, both panels will close automatically using the servo motors. Below is how this logic connects to your architecture layers and the circuit design: 06 … Read more

Ambient Public Mood Beacons-MRAC01

‘Urban Sensing Begins: The City Meets Its Beacons’ PLACEMENT — The Sensing GroundThe first beacons are placed along the park’s circulation spine silent observers that begin listening to the city’s rhythm. Sound, motion, and presence data start forming an invisible map of human interaction.At this stage, the system is not reactive, it’s learning.It introduces itself … Read more