The “Computational design” module aims at providing advanced technical skills as well as the design thinking capabilities that are necessary for the optimal use of computational design tools.

The course is strongly connected to the Product Representation module, which provides technical skills for 3D modelling, as well as advanced practices such as 3D scanning, reverse engineering, etc. Building on these competences, the Computational Design module introduces students to parametric (also called generative, algorithmic, computational) modelling through the Grasshopper plugin for the Rhinoceros 3D modelling software.

The new skills will be tested in a way that demonstrates the advanced possibilities of using algorithm-based modelling. More specifically, the focus of the lessons and exercises will be on providing the tools and competences to work on morphological languages characterised by repetition and variation, potentially based on various data streams.

Three dimensional patterns will be designed by the students, then first applied to a simple geometric body, then applied to a product previously modelled in the module of Product Representation. This design exercise will also discuss the functional semantic value of the patterns, aiming at patterns that are coherent with the functionality and visual language of the product used as case study.

Beyond the technological competences and design practices, the course also aims to provide various perspectives on computational design