Subject

geometrical complements of graphic tepresentation is an advanced optional course in the field of architectonic representation, devoted to interested 10th semester students who are concluding their master program (laurea magistrale) | inspired by the courses of complements of projective and descriptive geometry traditionally included in the polytechnic programs, but at the same time embodying new contents according to an updated approach, the course aims to complete the disciplinary learning trail started in the first semester with the fundamentals of representation (bachelor program) | to be consistent with the last semester learning requirements, the main focus will concern a detailed investigation of the relationships among physical space, geometrical modeling and fabrication, and graphic image in the architectural design processes | starting from a specific analysis of projective and non projective methods, techniques and instruments, some significant classic descriptive problems (spatial visualizations by means of the image) and constructive problems (spatial transformations by means of the image) will be revisited and discussed in depth, especially dwelling on some specialized subjects and applications generally not included in the basic representation curricula | looking at the long evolution of geometrical representation, and focusing on some significant steps in the history of spatial concepts, geometrical theories and graphic means from the ancient optical theories to the computer graphics era, the course would also achieve a twofold purpose: a disciplinary (or internal) one, trying to point out the links between analogue and digital representation; an interdisciplinary (o external) one, trying to point out the strong connections of both these representative approaches with design thinking, design processes

Annual theme: DIGITAL STEREOTOMY - Geometry Processing & Construction

SUMMARY

digital graphics have enormously empowered geometrical simulation and construction in architecture | in this field stereotomy – literally ashlar construction – which has already inflamed the birth of modern descriptive geometry between xvi and xviii centuries is again on stage as a catalyst subject in the era of digital computational design | new materials and technologies are nowadays expanding stereotomic approach from the confined area of stone construction to the wide world of architectural, urban and engineering design | a cross fertilization is then expected from bridging native geometrical knowledges and advanced computerized simulations | starting from digitally re-mastering some selected masonry units from the treatise of philibert de l’orme, and looking at some current interesting examples, like those from philippe block and josé calvo lopez, a modern pavilion will be developed in class as a test model, according to given topology | guidelines and any reference materials will be provided by teacher

SCHEDULE

the course is organized in 4 blocks of about 3-4 weeks each | block 1: shakedown - framing topic and digital re-mastering of selected key geometric samples | block 2: processing - concept development and shape finding | block 3: construction - shape definition and building simulation | block 4 presentation: layout and visualization | exams

projects can be developed in groups of max 3 students, and public presentations of the work in progreess will be scheduled

REQUIRED SOFTWARE

rhinoceros (free version) | recommended tutorials (watch only): grasshopper, rhino-vault, revit-vault

OUTCOMES

learning and design processes will be summarized in a short scientific paper including images from digital models and simulations | 3 selected papers will be submitted to an international conference board | 3 selected papers will be submitted to a scientific journal | conference address and paper format provided by teacher

EVENTS

public invited talks from international experts in the field of digital stereotomy and computational design will take place | a demonstration of advanced visualization by 3d glasses will be organized in class

EXTRAS

master theses tutorship and academic internships available to interested students

INFO

polimi course web-page and beep

contacts: luigi.cocchiarella@polimi.it

the exam is individual, it consists of a final discussion focusing on the work developed by the student and on the theoretical contents of the course program | the grade will be given on the base of the quality of paper, drawings and models, public presentations, final discussion | if necessary, preliminary intermediate evaluations will be scheduled during the semester | a digital copy of the work, including rough and fair copy of notes, lessons, drawings, models, maquettes, writings, abstracts, papers, presentation, will be put on CD-ROM or DVD-ROM and delivered to the teacher one week before the exam

the evaluation aims to check the achievement of the following educational goals:

_oral text: knowledge and understanding; making judgements; communication skills
_class work evalutaion: applying knowledge and understanding; making judgements; learning skills; communication skills

since sudents will be required to work in groups the aptitude and the ability to work in team will be tested as well

students who can not follow the class activities can prepare the required materials individually or in group, the assignment for the exam will be discussed and checked in advance during sceduled consultations with the teacher