Week 4... “Morphogenesis and Emergence” - Michael Hensel, Achim Menges & Michael Weinstock

Genetic coding is the setting of rules by which a design is constrained and morphogenesis in the context of computer aided design refers to the constant change in approach to design such as parametric script in lieu of genetic coding.  Systems theory is the notion of a complex system of non-linear behaviour and self-organisation.

This has been explored by Achim Menges theory - self-organisation in the context of structural design. Performativity is not only the quality of a material and material systems but also how it performs under stress and deformation. Menges puts forward that these logical behaviours of materials is a prominent quality.

The structural behaviour of unusual or irregular materials used to be impossible to calculate and were only able to be estimated. However computer aided modelling has allowed the structure of unusual and irregular materials to be manipulated and calculated, designed and fabricated by machines.

Pre-stressed methods allow a tolerance for material deformation so when put under pressure it performs. The advanced technology of current digitally controlled machines enables the manipulation and calculations required for these structures.



 

Pre-stressed concrete¹

 

Parametric scripting enables modelling and calculation of irregular structures ²

¹ http://www.permacast.com.au/precast-concrete-products/prestressed/
² http://www.livearchitecture.net/archives/3257

Week 2... Compuational Design Thinking - Achim Menges

Computational Design Thinking defines computation within the context of architectural practice as computerisation where a designers ideas are entered, manipulated or stored on a computer system. The importance of design in holistic approach is also emphasised

A computer-aided design is an object-based strategy, encapsulating information in symbolic representations, whereas a computational approach enables specific data input in the form of codes with values and actions. Cybernetics is the communication between human and machine and have encouraged the development of how computers may be utilised to expand the human intellect. Computation does not function with a detailed description of form, therefore the designer’s role is very important as the author of the rules for the development of form.

Morphogenesis is the biological process that causes an organism to develop its shape, all elements together to form one organism. Ludwig von Bertalanffy’s general system theory is that nothing in nature exists in isolation and needs to be understood holistically as a complex system. To me this raises the question: should architecture be considered a part of nature? Once architecture is built (and even during construction) it has an impact on all its surroundings and the environment. Therefore design should be approached in the same manner as biological theories, an interrelation of material parts, social engagement, form, space and structure, as a holistic system.

Figure Morphogenetic Design Experiment 01.

Two correlated surfaces are computationally generated as part of a morphogenetic and evolutionary design process based on the constructional constraints of the system.