Von Parametern zu Dingen: Parametrische Design-to-Fabrication Workflows - Einzelansicht

This course will focus on the parametric design-to-fabrication workflow. We will explore various software tools and computational logic, learning how to translate digital models into physical artifacts using Rhino and Grasshopper. Parametric design treats form as a rule-governed system: change a parameter, and the entire design updates accordingly. The course covers three phases:

1. Parametric Thinking (theory and research);
2. Design-to-Fabrication Practice (including laser cutting, standard 3D printing, and clay 3D printing);
3. Integrated Project (applying the newly acquired skills to your own self-directed project).

Interdisciplinarity | This course is open to every student who is interested in parametric design and fabrication workflows, making this course inherently cross-disciplinary. Parametric design-to-fabrication combines computational thinking, spatial and material reasoning, and craft knowledge. Participants will be free to apply the knowledge shared in this course to whatever they are interested in. The course critiques are structured as peer feedback, actively encouraging cross-disciplinary dialogue, spatial reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving among students from different academic backgrounds.

Learning Objectives | After this module, students will be able to:

• Describe the principles of parametric modeling and explain how parameters drive form generation.
• Use a node-based design environment (Grasshopper) to create parametric component.
• Prepare a digital 3D model for fabrication using laser cutting or 3D printing.
• Identify material and process constraints relevant to their design intention.

Master-level students will additionally be able to:

• Analyze the relationship between computational design decisions and physical fabrication outcomes, identifying points of failure or unexpected emergence.
• Evaluate parametric workflows in relation to existing interaction design practice.
• Design and fabricate a working prototype that integrates parametric logic with a tangible interaction concept, and critically reflect on the entire design-to-fabrication pipeline.

Didactic Concept | This course uses a studio seminar format, combining three different lectures from the field of parametric design and fabrication, as well as a short excursion workshop (learning from natural forms).

Core tools:

• Grasshopper 3D, Rhino 3D
• Ultimaker Cura / PrusaSlicer / BambuStudio
• Inkscape / Adobe Illustrator
• https://openscad.org/

Key Concepts and Literature:

Parametric Modeling

• Caetano, I., Santos, L. & Leitão, A. (2020). Computational Design in Architecture: Defining Parametric, Generative, and Algorithmic Design. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 9(2), 287–300.
• Woodbury, R. (2010). Elements of Parametric Design. Routledge.
• Tedeschi, A. (2014). AAD – Algorithms-Aided Design: Parametric Strategies Using Grasshopper. Le Penseur.

Digital Fabrication

• Ayres, P., Ramsgaard Thomsen, M. & Sheil, B. (eds.) (2024). Fabricate 2024: Creating Resourceful Futures. UCL Press.
• Sheil, B. (ed.) (2012). Manufacturing the Bespoke. Wiley.
• Oxman, N. (2010). Material-based Design Computation. MIT dissertation.

AI

• Leach, N. (2024). Architecture in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction to AI for Architects (2nd ed., updated). Bloomsbury.
• Carpo, M. (2023). A Short but Believable History of the Digital Turn in Architecture. e-flux Architecture.
• Carpo, M. (2017). The Second Digital Turn: Design Beyond Intelligence. MIT Press.

HCI

• Vallgårda, A. & Redström, J. (2007). Computational Composites. CHI.
• Parkes, A. & Ishii, H. (2010). Bosu: A Physical Programmable Design Tool for Transformability with Soft Mechanics. DIS '10.

The course is conducted as a „Students' Bauhaus.Module" by Yuerong Zhang (stud. Ma AU). The mentorship lies with Lotta Stöver (KG).

No prior programming experience is required. Basic familiarity with any 3D software (Blender, SketchUp, Fusion 360, Rhino, etc.) is preferred but not mandatory. Course capacity is limited to 15 students. All applicants are asked to submit a short motivation letter (max. 300 words) describing their background and what they hope to create during the course. This will be used to select participants if the number of applications exceeds the available places. Please send submissions to yuerong.zhang@uni-weimar.de until October 11th, 2026.

Bachelor: Process portfolio including documented exercises from Phases 1 and 2, plus a final prototype with process documentation (fabrication files, photographs, short written reflection). Testat option available.

Master: Final prototype with process documentation (fabrication files, photographs, short written reflection). A brief critical reflection situating the project within the broader discourse on computational and interaction design may be completed as an in-class assignment.

Grading criteria: Active and regular participation, final presentation, as well as process documentation and documentation of the final outcomes.

The course is conducted as a „Students’ Bauhaus.Module” and open to all Bachelor and Master students of the faculties of Architecture and Urbanism, Civil and Environmental Engineering as well as Art and Design. Before registering, please consult your academic advisor and clarify whether this course can be credited to your curriculum. If required, you can conclude a learning agreement (DE/EN) before the start of the course.