ARCHITECTURE | MATERIAL | COMPUTATION |EXPERIENCE
The mixed reality user interface visualizes the simulated structure with all visual data turned on.
Bamboo Tactic:
Gesture Recognition for Design Generation
42°27'04.6"N 76°29'01.3"W
Bamboo Tactic: Gesture Recognition for Design Generation
Ithaca, NY, United States / 2024
Research & Build, MR + Bamboo Fabrication
[Architecture | Computation | MR | Material]
Instructor: Leslie Lok
Cornell University Department of Architecture | Fall 2023
The "Bamboo Tactic: gesture recognition for design generation" project explores a new design-construction collaboration model using gesture recognition in mixed reality (MR) for non-expert builders. The project employs active bending of lightweight bamboo modules, integrating physics-based form-finding algorithms with intuitive gesture-based input. This custom digital workflow enables site-specific design by syncing topographic conditions and construction guidelines. Gesture recognition allows for the easy recording of site data, generating modular bamboo structures that adapt to site variables. The process facilitates non-expert participation, bridging design and construction knowledge while revitalizing bamboo construction through innovative digital tools.
MR overlay on the physical structure shows general adherence to ground topography and vertical anchors, as weel as expected deviations of geometric forms.
MR Workflow
Custom mixed reality workflow with four steps: 1. Initial site ground connection points input, 2. Surface and structural grid generation, 3. Physics simulation of active bending modules to localize connection points, 4. Various construction visualization settings
Module Simulation in MR
Bamboo is widely accessible as a sustainable natural resource with unique non-uniform material and structural characteristics. The research leverages mixed-reality (MR) enhanced design workflow to discover a catalog of new material tactics for the application, customization, and fabrication of bamboo for architectural assemblies. The investigation studies how low-tech material tactics can be augmented by emergent technologies such as AR tools and digital tools to reimagine hybridized material and construction systems.
Physics-based simulation re-orients module connections within and between hexagonal rings.
User Interaction Guide in MR
Allowance for Iteration Designs
Images demonstrating the input of base anchor points using gesture recognition by pinching a specific point and the subequent steps to generate the bamboo structure.
bamboo pavilion built in Anji
bamboo pavilion _ top view on site
bamboo pavilion built in Anji
bamboo pavilion built in Anji
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More Projects Coming
©Weizi Song 2021
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