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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Balloon Carnival

Create a personalized robot game where users can freely choose how they interact and the game mode. Methodology Workflow A path towards robotic gaming Game Rules How this game works 01 Training Mode Similar to the single-player mode, in this mode you can train your skills so that you can perform better in the next … Read more

Wired Warriors

Aim “Create a range of robotic mini-games showcasing dexterity and quick reflexes, ideal for casual enjoyment.“ For this one week workshop, we drew inspiration from various games such as infinite passes, penalty shootouts, and boxing, aiming to adapt them for robotic play. Initially leaning towards infinite passes (football), we ultimately found boxing more compatible with … Read more

DANCING QUEENS

Due to limitation regarding the file size and quality, these performances are muted, lower quality and sped up to be under the limited file capacity. Dancing Queen(s) is an endeavor featuring a pair of robots performing synchronized dance moves. These choreographed movements mirror those of a trainer, who leads, and a follower, who emulates the … Read more

Kino

At the workshop led by Madeline Gannon, we had the chance to delve into robotic movement, prioritizing creative freedom over conventional targets like accuracy and repeatability. The workshop was designed as a breeding ground for creativity, facilitated by software components that allowed exploration without the constraints of a kinematic solver. Given the project’s one-week duration … Read more

Strings of life

This project was part of a 1 week workshop at IAAC, utilizing the institute’s two ABB IRB6700 industrial robots. The workshop incorporated Dr. Gannon’s sophisticated simulation tools, which provide safe, real-time control of industrial robots. Under the guidance of Madeline showing us how to sketch with robots we were able to work within a flexible … Read more

Machine Learning to predict no. of seating spaces

Aim: To predict the number of seating spaces based on various types of seating layout, number of corridors and dimensions of generative enclosed rectangular spaces such as an auditorium. Objectives: Dataset Design: To create Dataset for the required problem, a synthetic dataset is designed with the help of various bylaws supporting the problem. Data Analysis: … Read more

EMBODIED CARBON CALCULATOR

To create a embodied carbon calculator that utilizes design and raw sawn timber cuts as inputs to inform design and manufacture processes Raw-Sawn-Timber and Wood Industry Petras VESTARTAS Design-to-Fabrication Workflow for Raw-Sawn-Timber using Joinery Solver Wood waste is often disregarded in the wood industry and the construction industry. Majority of wood used in construction is … Read more

Timber outlook

The project’s objective was to create a machine-learning model capable of classifying repurposed timber components within an assembly process as either structural or non-structural, using factors such as defect quantity, age, and exposure to weather conditions as input. Dataset Generation and Analysis The dataset was produced using Roboflow by utilizing scans of the timber elements … Read more

Predicting Ceramic Underglaze Colors

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

Glazing Virtuoso

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

Timber Narratives

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

ReWeave 2.0

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

Manifesto: Fostering Innovation Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration

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

Reliving

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

Manifesto for a New Era in Construction: Embracing AI

“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

Crafting Spaces: The Role of Art in the Contemporary Industry of Architecture

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

Manifesto for Robotics in Construction Tailored Policies and Protocols for Diverse Environments

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

Material Matters: A Vision for Future Architecture

  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

Robotic Manifesto: Embracing Advanced manufacturing in complex architectural geometries

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

Master class manifesto

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

Follow Me

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

Robotic Gaudi

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