Semester Topic: Robotic Bricklaying for Climate-Aware Building Envelopes

The seminar "Robotic Fabrication in Architecture" provides essential theoretical and practical basic knowledge for fabrication-aware design and digital fabrication using robotic technology in architecture. The seminar is designed to foster the students’ understanding of how new technologies, materials and processes can contribute to an advanced and sustainable architectural building culture. Using examples such as the design and robotic construction of brickwork, students will learn the principles of parametric and algorithmic design using the Python programming language within Rhino and Grasshopper software. The theoretical principles covered will be practically deepened using exercises.

This semester, we will focus on Robotic Bricklaying for Climate-Aware Building Envelopes, covering three consecutive parts related to (1) Design, (2) Practical Experimentation, and (3) Theory. In Part 1, students will develop design studies for self-shading brick facades, based on a dedicated design tool provided. In Part 2, students will participate in the robotic construction of a brick wall design at the Bauinnung München-Ebersberg, together with professional brick masons. In Part 3, students will be introduced to the data structures and the modelling of robotic bricklaying processes based on studying historical brickwork.

The course will take place Wednesdays, 9:30 – 13:00, in the seminar room 4170C. It will further include a workshop at the BauInnung München-Ebersberg with participation in defined time slots in groups.