Performative Morphology
ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion 2015-16
The focus of this studio, is the design development and fabrication of a biomimetic research pavilion which will be constructed between the K1 and K2 university buildings. The pavilion will be based on design principles that have been developed from biological role models in the context of the Architectural Biomimetics seminar course in the WS 2014/15 semester. Particular attention was directed towards biological examples of segmented shell structures. The studio involves the transfer of principles from the biomimetic investigation into a technical system for a segmented shell primarily made with wood.
The studio explores a design approach that aims at understanding wood’s complex material make up and behaviour as its major advantage rather than a deficiency. Computational design lends itself to such an approach as it enables employing complex behaviour rather than just modelling a particular shape or form. As a prerequisite, an integral design approach requires a close examination of the anatomy of wood, as well as the associated fabrication processes and construction logics. The integration of the technical production parameters in automated robotic manufacturing represents a further focus.
A team of students and academic staff will create a computational design tool, which incorporates material, fabrication, structural and design constraints. In parallel, the students will participate in the corequisite research seminar Computational Design and Digital Fabrication, dealing with the robotic production.
The project offers the opportunity to apply computer-based design, planning, calculation and production methods in an integrated design process on a real project and develop experience on all all phases of project development: from digital planning, planning application through to robotic manufacturing and assembly on site.
Requirements include: the participation in the design integrated seminar (Computational Design and Digital Fabrication)