Design Based on Availability

This thesis investigates the use of computational design algorithms in combination with robotic fabrication and sensing to augment the design and construction process for non-standardized material. Situated in the context of building with leftovers, generative algorithms and robotic fabrication, the projects’ goal is to create a computational design to fabrication framework consisting of a design engine to explore possible solutions to a set design intent and a robotic workflow for any planar sheet of metal. Within the world of declining resources, the project proposes a bottom-up process to inform the designer of the limitations and the potential of the available material. Due to Stuttgart’s local automotive industry, a corrugated metal plate system was chosen to test the methodology. Over 200 pieces of sheet metal with variable thickness and material type were collected from metal workshops, and donated by a local company The project follows a two-fold approach of digital algorithm development and physical prototyping for robotic fabrication to demonstrate the possibilities of transformation of non-standardized material through new technologies. The algorithm frameworks consist of; scanning the pieces to create an object database, classification based on material and geometry, surface approximation by a search algorithm and form-finding based on tectonics, and finally learning through evaluation of options in terms of structural, fabrication and design criteria. The initial target adapts according to the available material, conceptualizing the design process as informed and driven by resources. Robotic fabrication of the selected design was carried out by sensing for object recognition, and adapting to different material behaviour in terms of spring back.

ITECH M.Sc. Thesis Project 2019: Design Based on Availability
Seyed Mobin Moussavi, Hana Svatoš-Ražnjević

Thesis Advisers: Yasaman Tahouni, Axel Körner

Thesis Supervisor: Prof. Achim Menges
Second Supervisor: Prof. Jan Knippers