Computational Design and Fabrication
The Computational Design and Fabrication concentration is a research and experiment-based focus that incorporates knowledge from a wide range of disciplines to develop advanced computational design tools, digital fabrication techniques and experimental spatial, structural and material systems.
Coursework for this concentration incorporates ideas of computational design thinking, scripting, algorithmic modeling, digital and analog form-finding, biomimetic, emergent digital fabrication technologies, construction automation, prototyping, materials and structures.
The Computational Design and Fabrication concentration offers opportunities for topical study such as, but not limited to:
- Computational design (Analysis, Simulation, Evaluation, and Generative Design.)
- Digital Modeling and Fabrication
- Additive Manufacturing
- Robotics: Sensing, Actuation and Feedback
- Construction automation
- Biomimicry
- Smart structures
- Novel Materials
- Lightweight Structures
- Virtual and Augmented Environments
- Emergent and Self Organizing Systems
- Responsive Environments
Potential resources:
CoAD FabLab including additive manufacturing (3D-printing), robotics and subtractive computer numerical control (CNC), augmented and virtual reality.
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
- Joint Institute for Advanced Materials (JIAM)
- Fiber Composite Manufacturing Facility (FCMF)
- Entomology and Plant Pathology
- Institute for Smart Structures (ISS)
- Design | Build | Evaluate Initiative
- Clayton Homes
- Local Motors
To be included in the concentration, all courses must be approved by the Architecture Graduate Studies Chair in consultation with the faculty and will be based on the content of the specific course the student completed. Documentation will be kept by the School of Architecture, but it is the student’s responsibility to solicit approval through the advising process.
- Six credit hours from one of the following:
- Plus six elective credit hours from one of these courses or similar courses per advising process:
- Of the six elective credit hours, up to three credit hours may be from: