This seminar will research the use of carbon fiber in robotics for architectural design in collaboration with LeMond Carbon Fiber. The research will focus on the intersection of computational design, form generation, simulation, and robotic fabrication. The objective is to develop and document specific computational tools and material prototypes than span across design phases, from concept to fabrication. The research projects will focus on the design of an integrated functional building element. In this research the ‘unit’ is defined as a condensed element that has embedded within it the possibility of the ‘multiple.’ Fibrous structures and complex topologies, frozen to hold their shape and positioned in larger assemblies, will be tested for their structural stability, silhouette and architectural character. The seminar will work primarily in Python/Grasshopper for Rhinoceros3D. We will test Python in an intensive format and will seek to produce innovative intersections between explicit modeling/figuration, algorithmic formation and robotic fabrication. No previous programming experience is necessary. During the semester, we will have a series of introductory sessions, online tutorials, workshops, lectures followed by suggested readings. The class will consist of 2-3 large student teams to design, code and fabricate a full-scale constructed assembly.

All Semesters

2237a
Fall 2019
Computational Composite Form
Ezio Blasetti