The Master in Robotics and Advanced Construction (MRAC) seeks to train a new generation of interdisciplinary professionals who are capable of facing our growing need for a more sustainable and optimised construction ecosystem. The Master is focused on the emerging design and market opportunities arising from novel robotic and advanced manufacturing systems.
Through a mixture of seminars, workshops, and studio projects, the master programme challenges the traditional processes in the Construction Sector. It investigates how advances in robotics and digital fabrication tools change the way we build and develop processes and design tools for such new production methods.
Our aim is to develop a machine learning model that accurately predicts the color outcome of ceramic underglazes based on their ingredient compositions and firing conditions. In the world of ceramic art, the process of underglazing involves applying colors to pottery which are then sealed under a transparent glaze before firing. However, predicting the final … Read more
Our project represents the intersection of traditional ceramic craftsmanship and the precision of modern robotics, aiming to innovate within the field of ceramic glazing. The Essence of Ceramics and Glazing Ceramics, an integral part of human civilization, find their essence in the art of glazing. This process transforms simple clay objects into functional and decorative … Read more
Leveraging Computer Vision for Sustainable Design with dimensional waste timber Building upon the established design principles of disassembly explored in the prior semester, Timber Narratives this semester investigated the potential of computer vision and image analytics to further optimize material conditioning and manufacturing processes for dimensional waste timber. This iterative approach aimed to integrate data-driven … Read more
The Context Aim State Of The Art The Workflow System Architecture Robotic Cell Scanning – Robotic cell Scanning Nesting – Initial Experiments Nesting Custom logic Iteration A Nesting Custom logic Iteration B Binder – Geopolymer with alkaline activators – Sodium silicate Binder – Geopolymer with alkaline activators – Sodium silicate and Sodium hydroxide Binder – … Read more
The Context Driving Innovation in Architecture: Key Concepts from Tom Svilans Research
Introduction: This manifesto champions interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing inspiration from Luis Fraguada’s transformative work in ‘Robots in Gastronomy and Fashion Technology’. His achievements underscore the immense potential of exploring the intersection of design, technology, gastronomy, fashion, and more, filling us with optimism and hope. Join us on this journey to unearth hidden synergies and boundless possibilities. … Read more
State of the Art Raw Timber and AEC Industry Wood waste is often disregarded in the wood industry and the construction industry. Majority of wood used in construction is sawn and processed wood that not only generates waste on its production but it is also associated with high CO2 emissions, because of the embodied energy … Read more
“In the dawn of this new era, the construction industry stands at the threshold of transformation, poised to redefine its legacy through the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and comprehensive data analytics.”* This manifesto aims to put forward the benefits of AI and how it can help the The construction business be improved by collecting … Read more
This manifesto has been inspired by artist Maja Smrekar’s master class at IAAC, wherein she illuminated the myriad possibilities and variables that art can encompass when integrated with the digital tools available to today. The designer’s key intensions on “How Contemporary Art could incorporate the latest technology” as world is evolving with this bespoke technology. … Read more
Inspired by Jordi’s Masterclass at IAAC, where he shared his experiences in robotic business and scope exploration, we’ve crafted our manifesto. This document reflects the significant insights he shared, particularly concerning entrepreneurship and startup endeavors in the construction industry. Shaping our collaborative journey into the intersection of design, technology, and construction, this manifesto outlines tailored … Read more
In today’s world, architects and construction professionals are on the brink of an exciting era. This is guided by pioneers like Tom Svilans and Mariana Popescu who redefine what is possible. They are fusing material science, computational design, and digital fabrication. A collaborative, innovative, and sustainable built environment is illustrated by this manifesto, based … Read more
Introduction: In the realm of architecture, we stand at a pivotal moment where traditional construction methods struggle to meet the demands for intricate architectural forms while sustainability concerns continue to mount. As students of the Master in Robotics and Advanced Construction program, guided by the expertise of Mariana Popescu, we advocate for a paradigm shift … Read more
A new paradigm and consciousness of time and technology is being built on this instance and affects the future of how we construct. Standardized models of construction are strongly related to carbon emissions. Current Models of construction are not able to mass-produce or adopt solutions for the shortage of housing around the world. Standardization of … Read more
Taking inspiration from Luis Fraguada’s Masterclass at IAAC, where he shared his journey with food 3D printing, the ups and downs of running a startup, and his dive into wearables, we’ve put together our manifesto. It’s shaped by the key insights he shared, especially around business and startups, setting the direction for our collective venture … Read more
Aim To explore innovative parametric tiling designs through the utilization of robotic tiling setups. The project aim is to utilize the functions of COMPAS framework and its extensions for robotic planning. Also, to incorporate computer vision and scanning information into the tiling process to enhance precision and efficiency. Design Logic Inspired by the idea of … Read more
AIM DESIGN The three distinct design methodologies we explored employed grayscale image mapping, where the gray areas functioned as attractors and filters for colored circles. Our second experiment focused on employing curves as generators for the spatial arrangement and packing of a variety of larger circles. The third methodology extended our exploration to the incorporation … Read more
This project documents a 1-week workshop that introduced students to the COMPAS framework. Our goal was to design a tile mosaic that would be part of a collaborative pick-and-place workflow with the UR5, incorporating COMPAS Fab, Kangaroo (Grasshopper), and ROS. Our design took a bottom-up approach, embracing the randomness of tile size and color, and … Read more
“How can we employ innovative materials and techniques to construct an ecosystem that is instrumental in decarbonising our environment?” Mycelium in Construction for Catalonia – IAAC BLOG Natural Terracotta Air Conditioners – NTAC
Pathways to decarbonization or the dissolution of our illusions. In the midst of a scorching summer, a weary homeowner welcomed the arrival of a shiny new air conditioner, seeking respite from the oppressive heat. Grateful for the cool breeze that soon filled the living room, they savored the relief it brought. However, unbeknownst to them, … Read more
INTELLIGENT SENSING AND VISION This project aims to develop an interactive LED matrix capable of dynamically responding to real-time behaviors in its surrounding environment while ensuring versatility in its applications. By integrating sensors to detect various environmental stimuli and employing advanced data processing techniques, the LED matrix will generate dynamic visual patterns that reflect the … Read more
CONTEXT Consequences of carbon emission Building operations are responsible for approximately 27% annually, while the embodied carbon of just four building and infrastructure materials – cement, iron, steel, and aluminum – are responsible for an additional 15% annually EuropeanClimateLaw The European Climate Law writes into law the goal set out in the European Green Deal for Europe’s economy and society to become climate-neutral by 2050. The law also sets the intermediate target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. Climate neutrality by 2050 means achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions for EU countries as a whole, mainly by cutting emissions, investing in green technologies and protecting … Read more
The integration of a rover or swarm of rovers into construction demolition sites represents a paradigm shift in waste management practices. Equipped with advanced sensors and AI algorithms, this rover possesses the capability to accurately identify and segregate valuable materials such as steel and metal amidst debris and rubble. These rovers operate seamlessly alongside human … Read more
The building and construction industry is currently not meeting the targets for achieving decarbonization by 2050. Heightened environmental expectations from regulators, investors, and occupants have led to an uneven business landscape.Regulatory frameworks aimed at reducing carbon emissions, such as building codes and energy efficiency standards, are becoming more stringent, further complicating the landscape for businesses. … Read more
Throughout this blog we will highlight each section and we hope to inspire others like the way we have been inspired. We will present a progressive material, then show how we get this material integrated into the construction world. Proposition “ We propose that the usage of Mycelium should be legalised in the Code for … Read more
