Duration: 7 weeks (24 hours)

Cost: 1.000€

Dates: the weeks of October 5th and November 21st 2022

Module Introduction

"Our mind is powerful, our hands are limited". Algorithmic design is not simply the use of computers to design architecture and objects. Algorithms allow designers to overcome the limitations of traditional CAD software and 3D modelers, reaching a level of complexity which is beyond the human manual ability.

Module Focus

The new challenges of architecture are forcing designers to undergo a profound cultural renewal and deeper awareness in the use of computers as a tool for developing ideas and providing solutions. This unprecedented complexity reveals the inadequacy of traditional approaches and the potential of parametric tools.

The module will introduce students to algorithmic modelling based on the Rhino-Grasshopper platform and will cover the main techniques of parametric modelling applied to architectural design.

Through frontal lessons, examples and practice students will acquire the ability to generate complex geometries through an accurate control of mathematical and geometrical parameters.

Initial lessons will cover topics such as mathematical sequences, data structures, conditional statements, NURBS curves and surfaces. Subsequently, advanced techniques will be introduced in order to create structural grids, attractors, patterns and recursive structures. The lessons will also focus on cutting edge techniques related to shape optimization, digital simulation a machine learning.

The Structure

Each lesson is characterized by a first theoretical part on the main tecniques of parametric modelling and a second part of tutorials and practical excercises.
PD01- Algorithmic Thinking in Architectural Design (1 Unit - 4 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

5 October 2022

Past, present and perspectives. Case histories. State of the art of computational tools.

Key words: algorithmic design, parametric design, generative design, interactive simulation, optimization, machine learning.

- The role of Rhino and Grasshopper in the architecture avantgarde.
- Introduction to Rhino and Grasshopper.
- From additive to associative logic.
- Algorithmic modeling with Grasshopper: user interface, components, connections, basic operations, plugins.
PD02 - Intro to Grasshopper (1 Unit - 4 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

10 October 2022

Grasshopper:
- Lists of data
- Selection components
- Numerical sequences
- Conditional statements
- Vectors and geometric transformations
- Advanced control of NURBS curves and surfaces
- Introduction to meshes
- Parametric modeling of a complex building.
PD03 - Advanced Grasshopper (1 Unit - 3 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

18 October 2022

Grasshopper:
- Advanced data-managing in Grasshopper (Data Tree)
- Remapping and attractor logics
- Single and multiple attractors applied to a building’s facade
- Image-based patterns
- Grids and tridimensional patterns
- Parametric facades.
PD04 Grasshopper’s plugins (1 Unit - 3 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

25 October 2022

- Elk : map and topographical surfaces using open source data)
- Ladybug : sun path, wind rose, psychrometric chart, radiation analysis, shadow studies, and view analysis).
PD05 Optimization Algorithms 1 (1 Unit - 4 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

7 November 2022

- Meshes
- NURBS to Mesh conversion
- Remeshing tool
- Introduction to genetic solvers: Galapagos
- Shape optimization using Ladybug and Galapagos. 
PD06 Live Physics in Grasshopper (1 Unit - 3 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

15 November 2022

- Introduction to Kangaroo
- Live physics engine for interactive simulation and form-finding
- Membranes and shells
- Creating freeform geometries through physics simulation.
PD07 Optimization Algorithms 2 (1 Unit - 3 Hours Lecture and Tutorial)

21 November 2022

- Geometric optimization using Kangaroo (e.g.: panels planarization)
- Introduction to machine learning algorithms as a new approach for problem solving.

Module Leader

Arturo Tedeschi - Computational Designer

Arturo is an Italian architect and computational designer internationally renowned for his sculptural and visionary approach combined with research on advanced design methods, materials and fabrication technologies. His use of digital technologies blurs the line between disciplines and emphasizes the semantic and emotional values of objects. Qualities such as functionality, sustainability and innovation are always complemented by a vision where forms are capable of triggering an emotional response and inspire the user.

As a consultant he collaborated with world-known brands and offices (among others, Zaha Hadid Architects, Ross Lovegrove, Adidas) providing services related to algorithmic modeling, complex geometry, digital fabrication, virtual reality and data driven design. His personal work has been featured in international magazines such as Forbes, Wired, Dezeen and exhibited worldwide. He is the author of the book AAD Algorithms-Aided Design unanimously considered the global reference on the subject and since 2011 he promoted and directed several events and workshops that trained a generation of students and professionals.

In 2019 he was appointed Italian Ambassador for Design by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He lives and works in Milano.

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