Augmented Graphic Thinking in Geometry. Developable Architectural Surfaces in Experimental Pavilions

Abstract

We will analyze how the incorporation of digital manufacturing in our schools is motivating a deep reflection about the need to be familiar with both the foundations of geometry as well as with more advanced knowledge. The reinterpretation of our inherited graphic design discipline in light of current digital tools can open up new fields of study and work, such as is occurring in the field of developable surfaces, warped surfaces and many others. In addition, through non-linear graphic processes and digital tools of parametric design, we can arrive at an “expanded graphic thinking” that we can place at the service of production and morphological research. Thus, the old descriptive geometry—geometry based on graphics—comes to serve a cybernetically enlarged mind. We will present four experimental pavilions resulting from several workshops on geometry and digital manufacturing carried out in collaboration between the University of Seville and several Ibero-American Universities. Based on the deep geometric knowledge of developable helical surfaces and surfaces of equal slope, a guided exercise is proposed to approach the design, manufacturing and assembly phases of these architectural installations on a real scale.