architectureunleashed

[architectureunleashed]

For this exercise, we programmed the robot to run a series of basic lines through foam. The wire ran through the foam with remarkable ease and precision. We ran three different files, with lines curved at different degrees of resolution. It took a fair amount of fiddling and testing in order to find the proper placement of the blocks, but after a few scrap pieces, we were able to execute the final products.

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Computer as Theater

Brenda Laurel discusses the relationship that she sees between computers and theater. By making this comparison both subjects who at first glance are very dissimilar now become more approachable to the other. If we are seeing a good play or theater show the audience can feel like they are a part of the fictional world that is being depicted. Computer software has now achieved a similar sensation with gamers a virtual reality. Computer technology is even become better at integrating the user into virtual reality through wearable equipment like the oculus rift. This headset allows users to control joystick like motion through head movement. This technology can be groundbreaking for gamers and architects alike. Imagine being able to virtually walk through computer renderings of our projects. What a great design tool that will be I cant wait to be able to afford one eventually but currently the price tag is outrageous.

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I’m just waiting for my robot reservation...

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[architectureunleashed]

The Jig, The Nudge, and Local Ecology

After reading Crawford’s writing on “The Jig, The Nudge, and Local Ecology” my interpretation of what a jig is changed dramatically. Before my understanding was limited to workshop terminology referencing a physical tool. Crawford states, “A jig reduces the degrees of freedom that are afforded by the environment. It stabilizes a process, and in doing so lightens the burden of care on both memory and fine muscular control.” A result of this statement a skilled chef according to Crawford uses jigs constantly. I may have underestimated my exposure to jigs in my daily life. When using computer software I now feel that I certainly incorporate jigs in my constant usage and probably maybe other aspects of my life that I cant even think of right now. Jigs aren’t confusing and a burden to construct but great methods/tools to increase my efficiency and precision.

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Nyan Cat (By Mitey)

This project encountered several setbacks, including robot malfunctions, file issues and group logistical issues. The Kuka’s are very finicky, clunky and slow machines that require great finesse to operate successfully. However, as shown in the photo above, our group still succeeded in recreating an internet spectacle through the light-brite exercise. 

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Robot Technology Fundamentals

After reading James Keramas’ “Robot Technology Fundamentals” I feel that I am relatively more prepared to begin this weeks exercise on robotic tool paths. The writing covers a brief history of robotics, introductions to the different categories of robots, and economic effects robots can have on society. I found it interesting that Keramas went into detail about the risks and shortcomings of robotics in his writings. I find that most talk of the robots at Taubman College are of praise and exciting innovation taking place right in the building but most students I feel are not directly connected to this technology. I link this to the high initial cost of purchasing this equipment so robots are limited in availability. Also, I think that they don’t want us to break them on accident when becoming familiar with the robots. So I’m very excited that we have the opportunity to use this equipment but feel that once this class is completed my exposure will be minimal.

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The Degeneration Effect

Nicholas Carr argues in The Degeneration Effect that automation is bad based on the reduction of thought and engagement required by the operator. He links this lack of cranial engagement to the inability to think higher thoughts of knowledge. The repercussions of a lower level of thinking in our society is frightening and I do feel that evidence of this “degeneration effect” can be found nation wide. When taking into account the benefits our society has experienced due to increased automation I cannot simply write off all advancements in automation as detrimental. Ultimately, I would hope that moving forward careful consideration is taken when determining what kinds of automation are advancements versus shortcuts.

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the tragic ending of our aperture

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Arduino work: we created a 1-ply museum board window aperture that opens and closes with the swivel of a tab. We mounted both the aperture and servo arm onto a basswood table, adding jig arms and plinths to get the two units level.

Adjusted the delay time, waited for the right moment to drop the tab onto the servo arm…… and then it broke. Completely. In retrospect, we blame the material (1-ply museum board). It was too flimsy to withstand the resistance of the servo arm, and tore incredibly easily. 

If we were to do this again, it would be helpful to consider the size of the servo arm before designing a larger aperture. Also, sturdier material is always a good thing.

(See videos to watch it break)

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Situated Knowledges

Donna Haraway claims in Situated Knowledges: The Science Question in Feminism and the Privilege of Partial Perspective, a partial perspective allows for an objective mind. Partial perspective can also translate to having partial knowledge of a particular subject.  By having no previous experience, Haraway feels that this user has a more objective approach to he task than someone who has had experience. I feel is appropriate to think over this blurb in apprehension for our upcoming exercises that will be dealing with the robots. Having no prior experience, our interactions with this technology could be approached objectively, according to Donna Haraway. Regardless this upcoming opportunity is very exciting.

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Figuring out arduino. Several technical difficulties at first: finding the “upload” command, selecting the proper settings, and plugging into the breadboard. Settled easily into the process after that.

Both blink sketches were straightforward. The motor was the most entertaining with its mini, minute motions. Attempted to plug in the breadboard and run the rangefinder, but the distance kept coming up as a static 350-358, despite frantically moving hands in front of it.

As for brainstorming mechanisms, our group is playing with the idea of an origami cocoon or frog. With the cocoon, the servo arm could expand and collapse it. With the frog, the servo arm could move its mouth up and down.

More to come later.

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Tangible Media

After browsing Tangible Media by MIT Media Lab, I became so fascinated by the shear quantity of the many research projects that they are pursuing. The subject matter mostly was striving to further develop human and machine interfaces. This browsing seems appropriate for our upcoming Arduino exercise. We will be messing around with motion sensors that trigger responsive motor movements. Lately I’ve been seeing a lot of solar responsive screens that seem to be relatable to the merging of and machine interfaces but may be a little bit more automated. If this Arduino exercise goes well I think would be interesting to learn how to use a light sensor instead of a motion sensor to trigger sizes of aperture openings. I think it’s definitely doable because I remember seeing an example of someone who did this in an architectural sustainable context.

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Work necessary to prepare our Rhino landscape for folding and Zund cutting is shown in this image. The original mdf landscape, at far left, was interpreted as a surface and, using the Grasshopper program, abstracted into a variety of faceted surfaces. The final linework for cutting is at the top right. 

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Metals

Smith examines the discovery process of materials and how this process differs with time. Historically, artisans discovered new materials and their attributes, but the artist’s understanding of this material was limited to physical and visual realm. Presently, our understanding of materials explores many facets and we are still discovering as well. The combination of visual, physical, and elemental has unlocked so many more possibilities and applications for materials. It is so exciting to think about the technology that is being integrated into materiality. Responsive building the facades that adapt to specific levels of sunlight particularly interest me. Materiality is so crucial to consider when creating architecture.  So the more discoveries we are making with materials, the more options we have as architects. I think of it as adding tools to our architectural tool belt.

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CNC Milled Surface (complete)