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Digital Design Methods I

website·Indexed 19 days ago

https://ddm.arch.ethz.ch/

Course documentation for Digital Design Methods I (::061-0113-00L) at ETH Architecture. It provides tutorials and resources for Rhino, Grasshopper, and QGIS, covering topics such as 3D topography, mixed reality (VR), and fabrication techniques including 3D printing (FDM, SLA, SLS), MultiCAM, and RhinoCAM. The site also includes course assignments, LVML usage rules, and ETH server access information.

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What's inside DDM

  1. Overview of Rhinoceros 3D (Rhino) software

    Rhinoceros (Rhino) is a commercial 3D computer graphics and computer-aided design (CAD) application. It is primarily used for freeform NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines) surface modeling, which provides high precision and flexibility for creating complex shapes. The software supports various plugins for industry-specific needs, most notably Grasshopper, a node-based visual programming language used for generative and algorithmic design.

  2. Overview of the Grasshopper platform

    Grasshopper is a graphical algorithm editor for Rhinoceros (Rhino) that enables designers to create 3D models using generative algorithms and visual programming. It allows for the automation of repetitive processes, generation of geometry via mathematical functions, and the creation of complex forms through the repetition of simple geometry. Because it uses a visual interface, it requires no prior programming or scripting knowledge. Parametric objects created in Grasshopper can be modified in real-time, with changes simultaneously affecting the corresponding objects in the Rhino modeling interface.

  3. Overview of Digital Design Methods (DDM) curriculum

    The DDM three-semester series provides landscape architects with digital tools for data collection, transformation, modelling, visualisation, and design verification. The first semester specifically focuses on two primary toolsets:

    1. Rhino-Grasshopper: Used for parametric modelling and programming.
    2. QGIS: Used for acquiring and utilizing publicly available geographic data for design purposes.

  4. Understand geometry visualization in the Rhino viewport

    Geometry generated in Grasshopper appears as wireframe 'holograms' in the Rhino viewport. These are not editable within Rhino and do not support snapping. The color of the wireframe indicates the state of the Grasshopper component: red indicates the component is not selected, and green indicates the component is currently active/selected.

  5. Compare 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, SLS)

    There are three primary additive manufacturing technologies with different characteristics:

    • FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling): Uses plastic filament (e.g., PLA, ABS). It is the cheapest and easiest method but has visible layer structures and requires support structures for overhangs greater than 45 degrees.
    • SLA (Stereolithography): Uses a liquid resin cured by light. It offers the highest resolution and smooth surfaces but is expensive, and the resin is toxic, requiring safety gear and ventilation. Support structures are required.
    • SLS (Selective Laser Sintering): Uses a CO2 laser to melt powder. It is the most expensive method but requires no support structures because the unsintered powder supports the model. It produces extremely high resolution with no visible layers.

  6. Understand the difference between Parameters and Components in Grasshopper

    Objects are the basic building blocks of the Grasshopper canvas, connected by wires via inputs and outputs. There are two primary types:

    • Parameters: Data containers used to store information (e.g., referencing geometries from Rhino).
    • Components: Action containers that perform specific tasks, such as analyzing or deforming geometries.

  7. Understand course assignment types and requirements

    The course utilizes two types of assignments to build proficiency in Rhino, Grasshopper, and QGIS:

    • Mandatory Assignments: Essential tasks that every student must complete to establish a foundation of core concepts and skills.
    • Optional Assignments: Non-required tasks designed for students to challenge themselves, explore personal interests, and gain a more comprehensive grasp of the tools.

  8. DDM-I Final Project Overview and Requirements

    The final project requires the design of a 50m x 50m square site. The project is divided into five main tasks focusing on terrain generation, path design, zone creation, tree planting, and analysis. The goal is to integrate parametric thinking and design workflows using tools like Rhino, Grasshopper, and QGIS.

  11. Navigate the Grasshopper Interface

    The Grasshopper interface consists of several key areas:

    • Canvas: The main workspace where components are arranged.
    • Main Menu Bar: Standard Windows-style menus for File, Edit, View, Display, Solution, and Help.
    • Component Panels: Categorized toolbars (e.g., Params, Curves) containing components. Click the bottom bar of a panel to see the full collection of components in that category.
    • File Browser Control: Used for switching between active files.
    • Canvas Toolbar: Quick access to file operations, zoom, and geometry preview settings.
    • Radial Menu: A context menu for grouping, clustering, and managing component states.

  12. Understand the role of slicing software in 3D printing

    Slicing software is used to prepare a 3D model for printing. It performs the following automated tasks:

    • Slices the 3D model into separate horizontal layers.
    • Calculates and generates the necessary internal and external support structures.