Course detail

Generative Design and Digital Production

FSI-YRP Acad. year: 2022/2023 Winter semester

The content of the course is algorithmically controlled computer design, also known as generative, parametric, performative or informed design. The essence is the connection to the following production process based on a digital 3D model. Students will acquire competencies in the field of algorithmic modeling and direct digital manufacturing. They will be able to customize digital data according to selected parameters and convert real geometries to digital and back. The course includes teaching the principles of optical digitization, additive manufacturing (3D printing), including an introduction to robotic additive manufacturing. Students will work independently with a hand 3D scanner and desktop 3D printer in the student FabLAB, where they will produce selected generative designs.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

2

Learning outcomes of the course unit

Students will be able to design and prepare parts for additive manufacturing, process the scanned data of 3D objects and transform it into surface models useable for further design work. Students will utilize gained experience during preparation of diploma thesis, in further doctoral program or in practice for development of new products. Knowledge of additive technologies and optical digitization will expand the skills required for the design and implementation of pre-production models.

Prerequisites

Knowledge in area of CAD systems, particularly Rhinoceros 3D.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Lessons are focused on practical software tools and technologies. The course is taught through exercises focused on practical problems of measurement and data processing in order to prepare and implement a print job to the 3D printer. Practically-oriented exercises also allow students to get feedback from the physical realization of projects.

Assesment methods and criteria linked to learning outcomes

Course-unit credit is awarded on the following conditions: active participation in the seminars, submission of given semestral project and 3D data in digital form. In total it will be possible to acquire 100 points. Resulting classification will be defined by the ECTS scale. If some of the projects are awarded less than half of the maximum pts., final evaluation of the course is "failed". According to the article No. 13 of Study and Examination Rules of Brno University of Technology ECTS evaluation degree scale is used. . If some of the projects are awarded less than 50 pts., final evaluation of the course is "failed". The course is evaluated with the following grades: ECTS EVALUATION DEGREES / PTS. RATING / NUMERIC RATING: A / 100 – 90 / 1 / Excellent; B /89 – 80 / 1,5 / Very good; C / 79 – 70 / 2 / Good; D / 69 – 60 / Satisfactory; E / 59 – 50 / Sufficient; F / 49 – 0 / 4 / Failed.

Aims

The aim of the course is to familiarize students with the possibilities of using 3D optical digitization, reverse engineering and rapid prototyping technologies in industrial design. The aim is achieved by teaching advanced software tools and hands on experience with optical scanning of spatial objects and 3D printing plastic parts.

Specification of controlled education, way of implementation and compensation for absences

Attendance at seminars is obligatory and checked by the teacher. Compensation of missed lessons depends on the instructions of course supervisor. Students have to be present in scheduled hours in the computer lab and work on projects and wait for consultation. The absences are possible only due similar reasons as by work law, e.g. Illness. Unexcused absence may cause denial of credit.

The study programmes with the given course

Programme B-PDS-P: Industrial Design, Bachelor's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Computer-assisted exercise

26 hours, compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus

1. Generative design – introduction to algorithmic modeling Rhinoceros 3D Grasshopper
2. Generative design – parametric modeling with complete history (Grasshopper)
3. Generative design – use of evolutionary algorithms Grasshopper – Galapagos)
4. Generative design – form finding – Grasshopper Kangaroo, or alternatives)
5. Generative design – Generating structures (Grasshopper Paneling tools, or alternatives)
6. 3D optical digitization – ATOS system, GOM Inspect software, Sense
7. 3D optical digitization – Sense system, EinScan, or other hand scanner
8. Rapid prototyping – preparation of the model for 3D printing, closing the model, error correction
9. Rapid prototyping – preparation of production on a desktop 3D printer, slicing
10. Production of parts using rapid prototyping (practical training FabLAB)
11. Production of parts using rapid prototyping (practical training FabLAB)
12. Robotic fabrication and CNC – (RhinoCAM, Grasshopper – KUKA PRC, or alternatives)
13. Basics of working with a 6-axis industrial robot (KUKA KR 60 HA – practical example)