Interactive Parametrics Workshop / modeLab

By: admin | February - 8 - 2011

AetherSCS.02 - Alan Tansey

Studio Mode/modeLab is pleased to announce the fourth installment of the coLab workshop series: Interactive Parametrics – a two-day processing workshop (with an optional third day) focusing on dynamic sketches and prototyping. The workshop will be held in New York City during the weekend of February 19, 2011.

The paradigm of scripting within ubiquitous modeling platforms such as Rhino or Maya allows users to generate complex form by accessing an underlying geometry engine and performing iterative functions. This paradigm is typically based on run-once execution, making it unsuitable for designing interactive or time-based behaviors. By implementing workflows that utilize Processing to create real-time software sketches, we can design dynamic systems that can act as standalone tools for parametric design, input mechanisms to feed other platforms, or processors of existing or sensor-based data sets.

This fast-paced workshop will focus on interactive parametric design strategies. Using Processing as our base platform, we will design real-time dynamic behavior systems, implement interfacing techniques for fluid use, and iteratively prototype the solutions in physical format through rapid prototyping and digital die-cutting. Through a series of focused exercises and design tasks, each attendee will build a stand-alone parametric design sketch and work through the process of prototyping, realizing a set of solutions through computer numerically controlled equipment. An optional third workshop day is offered to those participants desiring further time to develop individual projects or lines of research. As part of a larger online infrastructure, modeLab, this workshop provides participants with continued support and knowledge to draw upon for future learning.

Attendance will be limited to provide each participant maximum dedicated time with instructors. Participants are encouraged to be familiar with the basic concepts of parametric design and interface of Processing.

Interactive Parametrics was conceived through a collaboration between Studio Mode/modeLab and Marius Watz/evolutionzone.

Images from previous workshops: