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abstract:

Interposing idea space and the physicality of body space lays a space of potentialities where design intent and the physical constraints of making come into dynamic relationship. This space can be thought of as the solution space where complex representations of form interact with materiality, manufacturing techniques, and assembly logic. It is in this solution space and the transfer of information from the digital realm to the physical one where intent can be lost due to the lack of a systematic approach. Mechatronic forming, referred to here as [m]form, is associated with physical surfaces that are reconfigurable based on digital information. In this context, [m]form is an additive casting machine that compliments the contemporary disposition of architectural design and manufacturing as one symbiotic process the purpose of which is the production of pre-cast modular systems. It seeks to expand this solution space by advancing design toward a bottom-up process that is driven by design intent as much as it is the tangible issues relevant to the production of variable form. Specifically the focus of this thesis is an alternative to cast manufacturing tailored to generative design methodologies and the inherent issues associated with manufacturing variably shaped modules.

related projects: [m]form

last updated 5.6.2012 by Brian R Johnson