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.


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Feasibility and cost estimations in digital fabrication

Building on our previous analysis of a large clay-printed geometric form, this study evaluates the feasibility of its digital-fabrication workflow. Through modular breakdown, material and time estimation, non-planar slicing analysis, and production-logistics modeling, we assess whether the system can be manufactured efficiently and economically. The process concludes with the development of a complete production plan … Read more

Design for Manufacturing of 3D Printed Architectural Systems

The project involves a large geometric form designed for clay 3D printing, consisting of 6 identical sections. This article will present the results of our analyses that explore the technical challenges and opportunities of this geometric design during the clay fabrication process. The workflow begins by rationalizing the pavilion structure into 6 symmetrical parts, isolating … Read more

Cacau III

1. Research Statement AIM OF RESEARCH: To create a biocomposite material primarily out of  Cacau Seed Shell and utilizing PLA as its matrix and use it for robotic additive manufacturing process to produce interior design pieces, following evaluation parameters from circular economy 2. How to add the maximum amount of CSS to PLA Matrix 3. … Read more

Software III: AI Optimized Earth Injection Deposits

injection printing

Github: https://github.com/Adronegenius/Software-III-AI-Optimized-Earth-Injection-Deposits The process begins with human fabrication of woven modules using flexible rods or sticks. Due to tension, compression, and human variability, the woven pattern often deforms. Our system integrates computer vision to scan these deformations and a robotic arm to inject earth between structural members at optimized locations. This bridges physical craft and … Read more

Terraweave: Innovative Structures for a Changing World

terraweave

Introduction In the face of the growing demand for sustainable construction, the integration of renewable materials with advanced fabrication techniques is essential for creating adaptable and efficient structures. Our team developed Terraweave, a project that combines willow and earth to create hybrid building components. By leveraging the natural properties of willow for flexibility and earth … Read more

Clay Spatial Printing II (Sensing for Detection)

Workflow for Detection (Transformation to the Real World) Test for getting the points in real world Workflow for Detection (Getting points into the Trajectory) Test for getting the points in real world Workflow for Detection (Processing on Point Cloud) Test for getting the points in real world Machina Connection for ABB_6700 (Simulation)

Cacau II

For this term experiments and tests were conducted for the evaluation markers of the biocomposite of PLA with different charges of Cacau Seed Shell and the Fabrication performances of each biocomposite charges. Tests on mechanical perfomances such as Tensile Strenght, Flexural Stress and Izod Impact were conducted. Compostability tests were also setup in the range … Read more

Studio I_Anatomy of a Machine: Shape

This project comprises of 5 rapid prototypes developed over the course of 3 weeks. Each prototype is developed with a focus on a material and a process. These investigations were a means of developing the skillset of rapidly developing a robotic process and simultaneously became the palette from which we select our research lines for … Read more

Studio I_Anatomy of a Machine: Shape

INTRO As part of the “Anatomy of a Machine – Shape” course, we engaged in an exercise that explores the possibilities of robotic material manipulation through various tools and techniques. Our objective was to research and experiment with sustainable, accessible, and locally available materials, applying scientific and creative principles to produce unique prototypes. This process … Read more

Studio I_Anatomy of a Machine: Spill _ FLOWPRESS

Introduction This seminar invites students to explore making custom made spillers controlled by Arduino and a 6-axes robotic arm in order to paint spills on canvas with black acrylic paint. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in production, prototyping, and innovation that has been influenced by open source software, firmware and hardware. Human … Read more

Robotic Craft Interaction

An Intersectional Investigation Robotics is the field of study focused on the research and application of robotic systems. This definition, however, doesn’t provide much insight. So, what is a robot? Robots are machines that can operate autonomously or through programmed input to perform specific tasks, often replacing human effort. These tasks are typically complex and … Read more

Pitch Deck – Estudio Ona

Supply Chain Opportunity to Solve The immense volume of organic waste generated by Brazil’s agricultural and food industries, including residues from cocoa, açaí, Brazil nuts, passion fruit, cupuaçu, buriti, and murumuru, represents a significant untapped resource. These byproducts, often discarded without proper utilization, contribute to environmental challenges and economic losses. Many of the companies highlighted, … Read more

FLOWPRESS – Creating Patterns with Parameters

Introduction This seminar invites students to explore making custom made spillers controlled by Arduino and a 6-axes robotic arm in order to paint spills on canvas with black acrylic paint. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in production, prototyping, and innovation that has been influenced by open source software, firmware and hardware. Human … Read more

BIO-ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING / MRAC Workshop 1.1

Cork-based 3d printing – Topological Optimisation Design Introduction    The seminar invites students to explore new materials, additive processes and new fields of applications through robotic 3d printing taking advantage of the potential of the 6-axes of the robotic arm. Context   Recently we have clearly observed immense changes in architectural design development. Architecture has been influenced … Read more