Intermediate Computation and Fabrication

This course, the second in the digital fabrication certificate sequence (following ARCH3590), focuses on the development of parametric tools and digital prototyping techniques. Beginning from the study of precedents of modern architectural fabrication—both digital and non-digital– the course will develop a comprehensive understanding of exemplary construction and tectonic systems, as well as allowing students to develop a proficiency in applying this knowledge in constructing associative/parametric digital models that utilize tools to generate alternative variations of these systems.

An integral part of the course involves the study of parametric modeling in Rhino 3D, Grasshopper, and SolidWorks, with dedicated workshops on geometry and linear algebra for 3D modeling. The output of the course will be a digitally modeled and fabricated paneling systems. Students will come away from the course with digital and material models, and documentation of the structural characteristics of the materials and fabrication techniques used.