VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Computational Design IV
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:13:58
Abstract
The courses “Computational Design III and IV” focus on exploring the theories and cultures of the digital in architecture. They examine the central question of how digital methods and strategies can be used creatively and purposefully, as well as consciously and critically, in the design process in order to have a sustainable impact on building culture.
Objective
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: Advanced Digital Skills: ● Apply selected digital techniques in architecture and document the process and parameters clearly. ● Work with and modify existing point clouds of buildings, extract and add quantitative and geometric information from them. ● Design a fabrication-informed model and manufacture a prototype with a digital fabrication technique. Digital Technologies in Architecture: ● Describe and compare major digital technologies in architecture, identifying their typical use cases. ● List scanning modalities and reconstruction methods with key working principles; choose an approach appropriate to context and constraints. ● Describe and compare major digital fabrication processes in architecture, identifying their suitability for various building components and their effect on design. Critical Reflection on the Application of Digital Technologies: ● Discuss and evaluate the implications of digital cultures and theory from disciplinary, ethical, and environmental perspectives. ● Be able to choose consciously digital techniques while working with existing context, being aware of potential and limitations. ● Evaluate how digital fabrication logics shape architectural language and material culture, stating a clear design position on craft, authorship, and environmental meaning, grounded in your prototype.
Content
The course, Computational Design IV, is organized into two thematic blocks (3 and 4) following the two blocks (1 and 2) from Computational Design III. Each block consists of a lecture, tutor-supported exercises and assignments, and a discussion of student work. Block 3 covers techniques, skills, and areas of application of 3D scanning, point clouds and other digital methods for reconstructing and assessing existing buildings. This block examines the impact of digital technologies on working in existing context. Block 4 builds skills in producing physical 3D models using digital fabrication techniques. This block examines the fundamentals of 3D printing and its impact on the architectural practice. Expected model 3D printing costs 10-20 CHF per student. All course materials, assignments, and submissions will be managed through the Moodle learning platform.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 120 minutes
- Aids
- Es sind bis zu 10 einseitig beschriebene A4-Seiten mit handgeschriebenen oder gedruckten Notizen erlaubt. Digitale Dateien sind nicht gestattet.
- Digital
- The examination takes place on your own device. Installation of SEB required.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Computational Design IV
Keine Lehrveranstaltung am 19. März 2026 (Seminarwoche), 3. April 2026 (Osterferien), 1. Mai 2026] (Tag der Arbeit) und in den letzten beiden Semesterwochen (s. Raumreservationen!)
Die Vorlesungen finden auf Deutsch, die Übungen auf Deutsch oder Englisch statt!
|
|
2 h weekly |