The DCL is proud to showcase the research of Ali Farajmandi, a recent graduate of the Master of Advanced Architectural Design in Digital Craft program at California College of the Arts (CCA), conducted in collaboration with Professor Negar Kalantar at the Autodesk Technology Center in San Francisco. This research is part of the DCL Academic Alliance with the Autodesk Technology Centers and explores the intersection of computational design, biomimicry, and robotic fabrication.
Ali’s project, "Parametric Biomimicry," investigates the geometry of spiral seashells, translating their organic forms into intricate 3D models using parametric design tools in Grasshopper. By studying the unique layering processes of mollusks, Ali leveraged advanced robotic fabrication techniques to bring these natural forms to life.
Research Process and Innovations
Geometric Analysis & 3D Modeling: The project began with an in-depth study of spiral seashell structures, generating precise computational models that capture their natural growth patterns.
Robotic Light Visualization: A custom LED spotlight tool was developed for the robotic arm, using long-exposure photography to visualize robotic motion and create luminous spatial patterns.
Collaborative Robotic 3D Printing: The project pioneered a non-planar 3D printing process, utilizing a static printing nozzle with a moving bed controlled by a 6-axis robotic arm. This innovative approach replicates the spiral geometry of seashells, demonstrating scaffold-free fabrication techniques for complex architectural structures.
Interdisciplinary Insights: The research was informed by discussions with Dr.Alain Goriely,, a mathematician from Oxford University, whose work on biological growth patterns provided a theoretical foundation for the project.
Community Engagement & Presentation: The project was presented to the Autodesk and CCA research communities at the Autodesk Technology Center (Pier 9), highlighting its potential applications in architecture and fabrication.
Impact & Future Applications
This research underscores the potential of non-planar 3D printing in architectural design, offering a new approach to fabricating complex geometries without support structures. By drawing inspiration from biological systems, the study demonstrates how computational design and robotic fabrication can lead to more efficient, sustainable, and aesthetically advanced structures.
📸 Image credits: Ali Farajmandi (@ferjii), CCA, Autodesk Technology Center, Negar Kalantar
🔗 #architecturaldesign #digitalcraft #computationaldesign #roboticfabrication #3dprinting #grasshopper3d #parametricarchitecture #designresearch #ccaarchitecture @parametric.architecture @designboom #autodesk