Robotic Fabrication of Acoustic Geometries: an explorative and creative design process within an educational context

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to describe and exemplify a design method for exploring acoustic performance and robotic fabrication of wood panels. Cognitive and creative impact of the design method will be investigated through qualitative observations, complemented with a qualitative PCA analysis, of a 3-week design studio with architectural students on master level. The paper describes a computational system that supports non-experts in generating curve-based geometries informed by acoustic analysis and simulation of robotic milling.The results of implementing the design method into the early design process of a mobile library structure will be presented followed by a discussion of the implications that this design method could have for the explorative and creative design process as well as the competencies required of potential users.