The impact of layered technologies on architectural model production and use

Abstract

The following paper is an in-progress report on the research conducted as part of PhD studies focusing on the use of layered technologies for the production of physical models in architecture. In the age of CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided-Manufacture), physical models remain widespread and are often the first materialization of abstract concepts, used not only as a way of presentation but also for the generation, evaluation and development of new design ideas. While latest modes of model production are often discussed in terms of costs and technical issues, the paper at hand focuses on a stage of our research where we aim to identify the basic mechanisms of traditional model use in order to determine the performance, use and implementation of physical models in the field of architecture. The characteristics of CAM tools and systems based on additive technologies, which have removed the model-making process from the hands of architects and model-makers, are examined through the scope of traditional physical model tasks in architecture. We find that the practicality of additive technologies is dependent on the type of physical models produced and varies according to their function.

Keywords

• architecture
• layered technologies
• physical models
• digital fabrication