Cooperative Robotic Assembly of Spatial Timber Systems: Simulation and Robot Programming

Instructor: Amin Adelzadeh

Augsburg Technical University of Applied Sciences, Germany

Email: amin.adelzadeh@hs-augsburg.de

Duration: Half-days or full-day (date will be confirmed after communication with the leader)

Mode of participation: Remote

Brief Description

The “Cooperative Robotic Assembly of Spatial Timber Systems” workshop offers a transformative online learning experience for architecture students interested in the fusion of spatial timber systems and robotics. Covering the foundations of spatial assembly in linear timber systems, cooperative robotic assemblies and specialized timber joint design, this workshop equips participants with the skills required to navigate the frontier of timber construction. The core focus is online computational sessions, with a hands-on approach using Grasshopper for robot programming. Participants will gain proficiency in Universal Robots, target generation, custom tool creation, and problem-solving.

Timber, with its sustainable and versatile characteristics, is experiencing a renaissance in modern architecture. Concurrently, robotics technology offers a new dimension to timber construction, enabling automation, precision, and innovative designs. This research proposal outlines the workshop’s objectives, methodology, and anticipated findings, catering to participants eager to explore the potential of online computational sessions in timber construction.

The core objectives of the workshop are as follows:

–     Introduce Spatial Timber Systems: Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of spatial assembly in linear timber systems, providing insights into its design and construction principles.

–     Explore Cooperative Robotic Assemblies: The workshop will delve into the concepts and applications of cooperative robotic assemblies in advanced timber construction, highlighting the synergy between robotics and timber systems.

–     Understanding Timber Joints: Participants will be familiarized with the art of designing and utilizing timber joints tailored for spatial timber systems, optimizing structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

–     Online Computational Sessions: The primary focus of the workshop is online computational sessions, where participants will gain practical experience in programming robots using Grasshopper.

–     Universal Robots Proficiency: Participants will learn to use Universal Robots and an offline simulator for robotic programming, providing a safe and convenient online learning environment.

–     Advanced Target and Toolpath Generation: The workshop will enable participants to explore target toolpath generation techniques, enhancing their precision in robot programming.

–     Custom Tool Creation: Participants will acquire the skills to create custom tools and define the Tool Center Point (TCP), aligning with the specific needs of spatial timber systems.

–     Problem Identification and Troubleshooting: The workshop will prepare participants to identify and resolve common problems encountered in robot programming, equipping them with essential troubleshooting skills.

Program

The workshop’s methodology is tailored to online computational sessions, ensuring a comprehensive and accessible learning experience. It comprises the following elements:

–     Online Theoretical Sessions: The workshop will commence with online theoretical sessions that introduce participants to the essential concepts of spatial assembly in timber systems, cooperative robotic assemblies, and the design principles of timber joints. These sessions will be delivered in a virtual format, allowing participants to access the content remotely.

–     Online Computational Exercises: Practical experience is a key component, with participants engaging in online computational exercises using Grasshopper for robot programming. They will also work with Universal Robots and an offline simulator virtually, facilitating a safe and convenient learning experience. Advanced target and toolpath generation, custom tool creation, and TCP definition will be key components of these exercises.

–     Online Problem-Solving Discussions: Participants will have the opportunity to discuss common issues in robot programming during online sessions. Instructors will guide them through the process of identifying and troubleshooting these problems in a virtual setting.

–     Online Collaborative Projects: In small groups, participants will collaborate on online projects that involve the application of spatial timber systems and cooperative robotic assemblies. They will be encouraged to apply the skills acquired during the online computational sessions to develop and present innovative solutions. These projects will be conducted virtually, with regular online meetings scheduled for progress updates and feedback.

–     Feedback and Evaluation: Continuous feedback and assessment will be provided through online communication channels to gauge the participants’ progress and understanding. The online workshop will conclude with a virtual presentation of project outcomes, encouraging discussions and knowledge sharing.

Required Skills, Hardware, Software

Basic understanding and familiarity with Rhino and Grasshopper.

A laptop (Windows or macOS) with Rhinoceros (Rhino 7, or 8) installed.