Reading 005_Lena Pfeiffer_Authoring Robotic Processes

This article Authoring Robotic Processes, by Gramazio and Kholer, discusses the shift from digitally designed architecture to digitally constructed architecture.  It is no longer a relationship between "dematerialization and pure form" but of the construction of those forms from the digital realm into the 3D.  With the introduction of digital fabrication, there are fewer limitations on the possibilities for construction.  Through computational logic and material realization robots will be able to shift the parameters of design and fabrication. But it is important to use our design to inform the work of the robot and not the other way around, or else we will not be expanding our view of design. The robots must be approached as a tool for furthering design, not a limitation.  One of the main advantages of the robot that gives it an advantage over many digital fabrication devices is its manual dexterity.  This is the ability to be multi-functional because it is, in some form, "generic".  This allows for endless tools to be used on the robot, such as the ones we used and constructed in class.  This allows for options of building, placing, filming, painting, and so on, which in turn gives us very well rounded understanding of material and structure.
Scale is another factor that plays into the use of the robot.  The robot arm can be placed on track and given a wider range of motion, but that can only take its motions so far.  One project Granazio and Kholer discuss is their fly quadrocopters.  The next step is to figure out how to apply this to full scale construction.

Lena Pfeiffer_Reading 003_Models Prototypes and Architypes

“Models, Prototypes and Archetypes”, by Mark Burry discusses the issues of the introduction of technology to extend traditional practice and how this may force us to reconsider the meaning and use of the model, the prototype, and the archetype. Burry describes the model as "a representation, generally in miniature, to show the construction or appearance of something.  This is different from the prototype which is the "original or model on which something is based or formed". Lastly, the archetype is "the original pattern of model form which all things of the same kind are copied or on which they are based; a model or first form; prototype."  This article discusses the use of these tools in the architectural practice and how with the introduction of new technology to the field, these tools have shifted.  He discusses his work for Sagrada Familia and how that has lead him to new discoveries within the design world concerning models. He discusses how his research on Gaudi's unfinished Sagrada Familília Church project is based completely on the prototype model and not the missing drawings that would typically have been the main tool for the research. By introducing these new technological tools, we have increased the complexity within the design possibilities, and allowed for the emergence of entirely new models, prototypes and archetypes that fit our current time.  This "file to factory" process has become the norm within mainstream architecture and design.  3D printers are becoming more and more common and laser cutters are a basic tool found in most architecture schools.  Using software and machines offers economical opportunities for products to be created and replicated easily.  Burry ask, what comes next? Have we transcended form "relatively straightforward design exploration, resolution, development and representation to a new state without really noticing?"