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Digital Architecture Research and Technologies (DART) is a research laboratory within the Taubman School of Archicture and Urban Planning, University of Michigan, founded in 2019 by Prof. Dr. Mania Aghaei Meibodi. DART research streams focus on developing novel computational design, robotic and 3D printing construction technologies to enable creating lightweight struuctures with sustainable architecture and zero-waste construction.
We are constantly looking into addressing pressing matters in the field of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). The innovations are tailored to real-world construction constraints (such as speed, cost, and scale) and advance to address environmental and socio-economic challenges such as high CO2 emission, excess waste, material scarcity, lack of skilled labor, housing shortages, and high energy use in buildings. We particularly look into how we can (1) reduce volume of material in structures by developing design and construction methods, (2) enable efficient construction by developing future smart manufacturing methods, (3)
DART research is at the intersection of architecture, engineering, computer science, robotics, material science and mathematics. The laboratory has cross-disciplinary collaborations and industrial cooperations. optimized structures, sustainable architecture, and zero-waste construction.
At the DART Lab, our mission is to advance the field of architecture through the exploration and application of digital technologies. We are dedicated to research excellence, conducting rigorous studies that push the boundaries of architectural design, computation, and fabrication. By leveraging digital tools and methodologies, we aim to expand the possibilities of what architecture can achieve.
Education and pedagogy are integral to our mission. We strive to provide an enriching educational experience for students at Taubman College. Through our research projects, workshops, and courses, we equip future architects with the skills and knowledge necessary to embrace the digital realm. By fostering innovation and collaboration, we actively engage with industry partners, academic institutions, and professionals in the field of architecture. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, we aim to generate innovative solutions to complex challenges and drive the adoption of digital technologies in practice.
Furthermore, ethical and sustainable design practices are at the core of our research. We advocate for responsible architecture, integrating environmental analysis, energy efficiency, and material optimization into our projects. By creating buildings that are not only aesthetically compelling but also environmentally conscious, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable future. At the DART Lab, we are committed to shaping the future of architecture by embracing digital technologies and advancing the field through research, education, innovation, and ethical design practices.
The DART Lab specializes in two main research areas: computational design methods and digital concrete research. In computational design, we focus on developing advanced algorithms and techniques to optimize the design process in architecture. Our research explores rib layout generation, mesh generation based on force flow networks, and innovative approaches using computational tools to enhance structural efficiency and performance. Through these endeavors, we aim to push the boundaries of architectural design by leveraging digital technologies.
In the field of digital concrete research, our goal is to revolutionize concrete construction through the application of digital technologies. We employ 3D printed formwork to create lightweight concrete slabs and explore precise material placement techniques to ensure optimal distribution. Additionally, our investigations involve robotic additive spraying of fiber-reinforced concrete, enabling precise shaping and enhancing structural properties. By integrating these digital advancements, we strive to create environmentally friendly and structurally efficient concrete elements.
Overall, our research in computational design and digital concrete is driven by a commitment to advancing the field of architecture. Through innovative methodologies, sustainable practices, and the integration of digital technologies, we aim to create architectural solutions that are not only visually appealing but also efficient, environmentally conscious, and structurally robust.
The DART Lab currently has open positions for enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about the intersection of architecture and digital technologies. We welcome talented researchers, students, and professionals to join our dynamic team. As a member of the lab, you will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research projects, collaborate with industry partners, and shape the future of architectural design. Whether your expertise lies in computational design, digital fabrication, or concrete research, we invite you to explore the open positions and join us in pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.
Digital Architecture Research and Technologies (DART)
Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Michigan
2000 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2069, USA
Room Number 2208
+1 (734) 647 0000
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