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Sema Alaçam

Istanbul Technical University, Architecture, Faculty Member

University of Oregon, Philosophy, Visiting Researcher

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Gianluca Baldassarre

Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)

Jean-louis Deneubourg

Thomas Schmickl

Karl-Franzens-University of Graz

Masoud Asadpour

Technical University of Madrid

Air Force Institute of Technology

Jaime F Cardenas-Garcia

IAEME Publication

Iaeme

Eliseo Ferrante

KU Leuven

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Papers by Sema Alaçam

Zone-sensitive RIZOBots in Action: Examining the Behavior of Mobile Robots In a Heterogeneous Environment

Blucher Design Proceedings, Apr 1, 2023

This study proposes a framework for the use of mobile robots namely RIZOBots in form studies in t... more This study proposes a framework for the use of mobile robots namely RIZOBots in form studies in the early phases of design. The proposed framework was tested in two experiments. An agent-based model was utilized for the movement of mobile robots, a drawing task was defined as the task. In particular, rule sets for agentagent and agent-environment interaction were used. Light-sensitivity rules were utilized to achieve agent-environment interaction, apart from obstacle detection. This study focuses on the effects of two different zone-related states on the behavior of RIZOBot which is a configurable differential-drive wheeled robot developed by authors using off-the-shelf products and 3D printed body parts. Two zone types with very basic features are used to define environmental conditions. The traces left on the canvas, the irregularities in the movement of the robots, and the robot-environment interaction will be evaluated in the study. The results and analysis of the two selected experiments are presented and the potential of the proposed framework is discussed.

Tekstil ve betonun bir aradalığı üzerine deneysel sorgulamalar

Memorability of Spatial Features in Virtual Reality - Süleymaniye Experience

APJ, Mar 30, 2023

The goal of this study is to uncover and understand the user's perception of spatial features as ... more The goal of this study is to uncover and understand the user's perception of spatial features as they interact with cultural heritage in a virtual environment. The virtual reality (VR) experience adopted Kaufmann's threefold imagery conception to structure the research methodology, which suggests that linguistic representation, visual imagery representation, and exploratory activity all have a strong relationship during the problem-solving/creative process. Since it has distinctive spatial features, the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul was chosen for the VR experience as part of the scope. Following the VR experience in two sessions, it was analyzed using semi-structured interviews, sketching, and route extraction. The initial findings of this study revealed differences in individuals' perception and memorability of spatial qualities in the VR environment.

Low-fidelity prototyping with simple collaborative tabletop computer-aided design systems

Computers & Graphics, Feb 1, 2018

Design processes encompass iterative elaboration and elimination of new and many ideas gathered f... more Design processes encompass iterative elaboration and elimination of new and many ideas gathered from a wide range of resources. The higher the diversity of the resources, the higher the chances that the design process will bear expected outcomes. Following that idea, immense amount of effort has been devoted to the development of collaborative computer-aided design (CAD) systems, and process frameworks that drive those systems. We infer from the existing literature that collaborative CAD solution attempts involve holistic approaches in which all aspects of the problem (social and technical) are being addressed. As an attempt to address social and physical aspects of the problem, tabletop systems with complex structures have been proposed by the previous work. Unfortunately, such complexity comes with the lack of reproducibility of the research work, and high evaluation overhead per prototype imposing a low limit on the number of design ideas to be investigated. Sophisticated systems might be required to solve the realworld problems, however, we argue that, with simple setups, rapid collaborative iterative prototyping could be achieved. Such simple setups could lead to high number of good ideas ready to be fed into offthe-shelf CAD systems lacking adequate support for collaborative design. We realized and evaluated this idea by implementing a tangible tabletop collaborative design system that facilitates fast and iterative prototype production for residential area design. Based on the case studies conducted with this setup, we show that synchronous collaboration for rapid prototyping could be achieved with lean setups, provide a list of design recommendations for such systems that we derive from our case study observations and existing literature, and finally contribute to the community with an open source tangible tabletop installation tool kit.

Precision Factors in Modelling of Relief Patterns on Thin Aluminum Plates - Learning from making process

eCAADe proceedings, 2022

Surface coordinates on thin metal sheets constantly change during the engraving, and the digital ... more Surface coordinates on thin metal sheets constantly change during the engraving, and the digital model is not truly compatible with the physical engraving process because of the ignorance of the relationship between the hand movements with the tooltip and material in digital fabrication. Hence, this research creates experiments to learn from the physicality of the making process for precision factors in modeling relief patterns on thin aluminum plates. It questions the identification and elimination of precision problems of material and behavior in the production process of relief with a robotic arm. It aims to determine the relationships among materials, tools, and geometry in robotic manufacturing. UArm Swift Pro as a tool performs the task concerning speed, the surface of the tooltip, material thickness, drawing, and engraving modes. Created 3D geometries on aluminum surfaces are compared according to the change in distance between initial and target points, curvature, and radius of the target geometry.

Designing Printers that Print onto Spherical Geometries: A Lo-Fi Prototyping Case

Blucher Design Proceedings, 2021

This study presents a novel 3D printing mechanism specifically designed to print on spherical sur... more This study presents a novel 3D printing mechanism specifically designed to print on spherical surfaces. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is adopted. The initial prototypes of the designed 3D printer have been tested with a specific focus on rotational movement mechanism and developing G-code solutions. The results of the low fidelity prototyping process are discussed in the context of stability of the system, usability of the proposed tool, sufficiency of step motor torque, distance between nozzle and the printing surface, producibility with reasonable budget, and flexibility. The distinctive feature of this study, unlike robot-aided additive manufacturing applications, is that it can be achieved with a low budget. The study is expected to be useful for designers who are interested in designing bespoke additive manufacturing solutions for double-curved and spherical geometries.

Beton Kabuk Strüktür Tasarımı Bağlamında Hesaplama ve Örme

Bu yazi Aralik 2017’ de ITU Mimari Tasarimda Bilisim Lisansustu Programi’nda yayinlanan ‘’Computi... more Bu yazi Aralik 2017’ de ITU Mimari Tasarimda Bilisim Lisansustu Programi’nda yayinlanan ‘’Computing and Knitting: Experiments on Tailoring Concrete and Knitted Textile for Shell Structures‘’ baslikli tezden uretilmistir. Tezde, karmasik bicimlerdeki beton kabuk strukturlerin uretilebilirligi uzerine malzeme ozelliklerinden ve hesaplamali tasarim araclarindan yararlanarak gelistirilen butunlesik bir tasarim ve uretim yaklasimi onerilmektedir. Arastirmada, beton ve orulmus tekstilin kompozit kullanimi sirasinda elde edilen bulgular ve ciktilar uzerine odaklanilmistir. Baslangicta esnek ve kolay bicimlenebilen bir malzemeden yararlanmak hedeflenirken, farkli bir kaliba gerek duyulmadan rijit bir strukturel davranis gosteren hafif beton kabuk olusturmanin potansiyelleri ele alinmistir. Calisma kapsaminda yapilan deneyler, malzeme deneyleri, bicim arayisi-dijital simulasyonlar ve fiziksel prototip uretimi olmak uzere uc ana baslik altinda toplanmistir. Mikro olcekte yapilan malzeme deney...

Mimari Nesneyi Değerlendirmek İçin Mereolojik Bir Çerçeve

Journal of computational design, Mar 31, 2021

gibi akademisyenlerin de yer aldığı bir akım için kullanılan şemsiye bir terimdir. 2 Şekil-Zemin ... more gibi akademisyenlerin de yer aldığı bir akım için kullanılan şemsiye bir terimdir. 2 Şekil-Zemin (figure-ground) ilişkisi: Algıda seçicilik kuramına göre, insanın algılama sistemi şekil ve zemin arasında bir ayırım yapar, dikkatin yoğunlaştığı kısım şekil, diğer yüzeyler zemindir. Şekil, dikkatin üstünde odaklandığı, zemin ise şeklin gerisinde, dikkat edilmeyen, algı alanına girmeyen kısımdır. Bu yüzden şekil ve zemin mutlak kavramlar değildir, dikkatin yoğunlaştığı noktaya göre şekil ve zemin değişir.

An Evaluation of Augmented Reality-Based User Interfaces in the Design Process

APJ, Mar 30, 2023

The aim of this study is to evaluate the user interfaces that reflect different interaction layer... more The aim of this study is to evaluate the user interfaces that reflect different interaction layers in the context of Augmented Reality technology. Depending on the physical characteristics of human interaction with the computer, these layers were examined under four sections: Graphical User Interface (GUI), Tangible User Interface (TUI), Natural User Interface (NUI) and Spatial User Interface (SUI). In this context, a proposed Augmented Reality application interface has been developed to bridge the physical and digital environment. The use of AR-based applications in the design process provided a basis for evaluating the user interface in these interaction layers. In future studies, the interface and experience offered by this application have the potential to be supported by more comprehensive functions and a collaborative working environment.

Beyond Flat Surfaces Parametric Derivations of Historical Islamic Geometric Designs

Architecture and Planning Journal (APJ)

This paper sets out to identify a guiding methodology and define algorithms to extend the existen... more This paper sets out to identify a guiding methodology and define algorithms to extend the existence of Islamic geometric designs beyond flat surfaces. The paper discusses two computational approaches to deriving various non-flat geometric compositions: Euclidean Point Extrusion and Curved Surface Fitting. The paper examines historical precedents, conducts an in-depth analysis of patterns employed to generate those elements, then establishes a computational process to explore the potential of translating 2D Islamic Geometric Designs into 3D non-flat surfaces.

A Recursive Algorithm for the Generative Study of Seljuk Muqarnas in Kayseri and Sivas

Nexus Network Journal

Computational Thinking and the Architectural Curriculum - Simple to Complex or Complex to Simple?

Proceedings of the 34th International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe) [Volume 1]

Recent trends in architectural education and practice have encouraged the use of computational to... more Recent trends in architectural education and practice have encouraged the use of computational tools and methods for solving complex design problems. Newer technology can augment the design process by applying progressively more-advanced computational tools. However, the complex nature of these tools can lead to students getting lost at the skill-building stage, they can become trapped in computational design terminology, leading to designs of limited spatial quality. This paper introduces a pilot study from Izmir University of Economics (IUE) for the integration of computational design technology in the undergraduate architectural curricula, based on a workshop series using a top-down teaching strategy.

Comparison of Designers’ Modeling Approaches During Architectural Design Process

Proceedings of the 27th International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe), 2009

This study has been started as a part of a research, related to exploring impact of novel interfa... more This study has been started as a part of a research, related to exploring impact of novel interfaces during collaborative architectural design process on designers' way of thinking. However, in this paper it is intended to focus on how the input devices reflect on designers' modeling behavior in computer environment. Therefore it is intended to compare designer's modeling approaches in computer environment via a case study. Four master students in architectural design computing graduate program have attended to the case study. The findings of the case study is presented and evaluated in the discussion section.

Computational Modeling and Analysis of Seljukid Muqarnas in Kayseri

Journal on Computing and Cultural Heritage

As a historical and ornamental building element, muqarnas are widely found among the entrances of... more As a historical and ornamental building element, muqarnas are widely found among the entrances of madrasas, mosques, and hans in Anatolian Seljuk architecture. In Kayseri (Turkey), muqarnas structures are characterized by symmetrical distribution of patterned geometric layers that presents computational rules for the design and construction of these ornamental structures. The presented research focuses on 12 unique muqarnas structures that are analyzed through a computational methodology combining photogrammetry, three-dimensional modeling, symmetry, and graph theory. The computational analysis shows that Seljukid muqarnas exhibit patterned branching of the symmetry axis between layers radiating from their geometric center. Using the modeled samples, the article analyzes inherent symmetry rules and growth patterns while offering a novel way of studying, modeling, and categorizing muqarnas.

Design to Experiment—Experiment to Design: Tool- (User, Breaker, Designer)

Formal Methods in Architecture, 2021

Annotation by Adapting the User Interface

This project aims at improving the user experience regarding multimedia content annotation. We ev... more This project aims at improving the user experience regarding multimedia content annotation. We evaluated and compared current timeline-based annotation tools, so as to elicit user requirements. We address two issues: 1) adapting the user interface, by supporting more input modalities through a rapid prototyping tool and by offering alternative visualization techniques of temporal signals; and 2) covering more steps of the annotation workflow besides the task of annotation itself: notably recording multimodal signals. We developed input devices components for the OpenInterface (OI) platform for rapid prototyping of multimodal interfaces: multitouch screen, jog wheels and pen-based solutions. We modified an annotation tool created with the Smart Sensor Integration (SSI) toolkit and componentized it in OI so as to bind its controls to different input devices. We produced mockups sketches towards a new design of an improved user interface for multimedia content annotation, and started d...

Understanding a city from its visuals: An interdisciplinary program proposal

2017 25th Signal Processing and Communications Applications Conference (SIU), 2017

This study aims to provide an overview on the intersection and interaction between architecture, ... more This study aims to provide an overview on the intersection and interaction between architecture, urban modeling, planning fields and computer vision field. The reflection of the methods and approaches of fields such as visual recognition, natural language processing, data mining and data visualization onto architecture and urban studies are investigated and potentials of inter/transdisciplinary encounters are unfolded through research questions. This study can be considered as an initial attempt to constitute a common and sustainable platform for advancing efficient inter/transdisciplinary and cross-domain collaborations.

Adaptability of Primary and Middle Schools to Post-Pandemic Reuse - A Discussion in the Context of Flexibility

Journal of Design Studio, 2020

This study discusses how the existing primary and middle school buildings can be adapted to the n... more This study discusses how the existing primary and middle school buildings can be adapted to the new needs emerging in the Covid-19 process. The three levels of adaptation are defined as follows: Building envelope-outdoor space relationship, plan layout-function relationship, and furniture relocation. In the scope of this study, five selected school plans were evaluated in the context of flexibility in the plan layout-function relationship. In this study, the concept of “adaptation” is considered as a design approach at the early design phase and/or intervention to respond to a new need in the life cycle of the building.

How to teach Architects (Computer-) Programming

Proceedings of the 29th eCAADe, 2011

Abstract. Computer programming in architecture seems to be commonplace throughout the eCAADe Comm... more Abstract. Computer programming in architecture seems to be commonplace throughout the eCAADe Community. Yet, a critical evaluation of a programming course as seen from a student's side is still missing. During a week-long programming workshop in a fellow university, we have been assessing subjective parameters such as mood, quality of presentation and comprehensibility, comparing these to the actual topics that were covered at this instance. Our results contribute to understanding architecture students in their quest ...

Can AI Function As A New Mode of Sketching

International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET)

This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can be integrated into first-year design... more This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can be integrated into first-year design education. The goal of the study is to examine how students combine orthographic projections with AI-generated images. To answer this question, a design representation course called Visual Communication I (VC-I), taught at Istanbul Technical University’s Faculty of Architecture, was selected. A three-step assignment called “ISO-meets-AI” was planned and implemented in the VC-I. The steps of the assignment were as follows: (i) producing orthographic projections of created physical compositions; (ii) generating image output from text input using an AI program (Midjourney); and (iii) combining the AI-generated images with the orthographic projections. The assignment was completed by 50 students from the departments of architecture, interior architecture, and industrial design. Tutors defined the evaluation categories and sub-criteria based on an initial analysis. While tutors evaluated eve...

Zone-sensitive RIZOBots in Action: Examining the Behavior of Mobile Robots In a Heterogeneous Environment

Blucher Design Proceedings, Apr 1, 2023

This study proposes a framework for the use of mobile robots namely RIZOBots in form studies in t... more This study proposes a framework for the use of mobile robots namely RIZOBots in form studies in the early phases of design. The proposed framework was tested in two experiments. An agent-based model was utilized for the movement of mobile robots, a drawing task was defined as the task. In particular, rule sets for agentagent and agent-environment interaction were used. Light-sensitivity rules were utilized to achieve agent-environment interaction, apart from obstacle detection. This study focuses on the effects of two different zone-related states on the behavior of RIZOBot which is a configurable differential-drive wheeled robot developed by authors using off-the-shelf products and 3D printed body parts. Two zone types with very basic features are used to define environmental conditions. The traces left on the canvas, the irregularities in the movement of the robots, and the robot-environment interaction will be evaluated in the study. The results and analysis of the two selected experiments are presented and the potential of the proposed framework is discussed.

Tekstil ve betonun bir aradalığı üzerine deneysel sorgulamalar

Memorability of Spatial Features in Virtual Reality - Süleymaniye Experience

APJ, Mar 30, 2023

The goal of this study is to uncover and understand the user's perception of spatial features as ... more The goal of this study is to uncover and understand the user's perception of spatial features as they interact with cultural heritage in a virtual environment. The virtual reality (VR) experience adopted Kaufmann's threefold imagery conception to structure the research methodology, which suggests that linguistic representation, visual imagery representation, and exploratory activity all have a strong relationship during the problem-solving/creative process. Since it has distinctive spatial features, the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul was chosen for the VR experience as part of the scope. Following the VR experience in two sessions, it was analyzed using semi-structured interviews, sketching, and route extraction. The initial findings of this study revealed differences in individuals' perception and memorability of spatial qualities in the VR environment.

Low-fidelity prototyping with simple collaborative tabletop computer-aided design systems

Computers & Graphics, Feb 1, 2018

Design processes encompass iterative elaboration and elimination of new and many ideas gathered f... more Design processes encompass iterative elaboration and elimination of new and many ideas gathered from a wide range of resources. The higher the diversity of the resources, the higher the chances that the design process will bear expected outcomes. Following that idea, immense amount of effort has been devoted to the development of collaborative computer-aided design (CAD) systems, and process frameworks that drive those systems. We infer from the existing literature that collaborative CAD solution attempts involve holistic approaches in which all aspects of the problem (social and technical) are being addressed. As an attempt to address social and physical aspects of the problem, tabletop systems with complex structures have been proposed by the previous work. Unfortunately, such complexity comes with the lack of reproducibility of the research work, and high evaluation overhead per prototype imposing a low limit on the number of design ideas to be investigated. Sophisticated systems might be required to solve the realworld problems, however, we argue that, with simple setups, rapid collaborative iterative prototyping could be achieved. Such simple setups could lead to high number of good ideas ready to be fed into offthe-shelf CAD systems lacking adequate support for collaborative design. We realized and evaluated this idea by implementing a tangible tabletop collaborative design system that facilitates fast and iterative prototype production for residential area design. Based on the case studies conducted with this setup, we show that synchronous collaboration for rapid prototyping could be achieved with lean setups, provide a list of design recommendations for such systems that we derive from our case study observations and existing literature, and finally contribute to the community with an open source tangible tabletop installation tool kit.

Precision Factors in Modelling of Relief Patterns on Thin Aluminum Plates - Learning from making process

eCAADe proceedings, 2022

Surface coordinates on thin metal sheets constantly change during the engraving, and the digital ... more Surface coordinates on thin metal sheets constantly change during the engraving, and the digital model is not truly compatible with the physical engraving process because of the ignorance of the relationship between the hand movements with the tooltip and material in digital fabrication. Hence, this research creates experiments to learn from the physicality of the making process for precision factors in modeling relief patterns on thin aluminum plates. It questions the identification and elimination of precision problems of material and behavior in the production process of relief with a robotic arm. It aims to determine the relationships among materials, tools, and geometry in robotic manufacturing. UArm Swift Pro as a tool performs the task concerning speed, the surface of the tooltip, material thickness, drawing, and engraving modes. Created 3D geometries on aluminum surfaces are compared according to the change in distance between initial and target points, curvature, and radius of the target geometry.

Designing Printers that Print onto Spherical Geometries: A Lo-Fi Prototyping Case

Blucher Design Proceedings, 2021

This study presents a novel 3D printing mechanism specifically designed to print on spherical sur... more This study presents a novel 3D printing mechanism specifically designed to print on spherical surfaces. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is adopted. The initial prototypes of the designed 3D printer have been tested with a specific focus on rotational movement mechanism and developing G-code solutions. The results of the low fidelity prototyping process are discussed in the context of stability of the system, usability of the proposed tool, sufficiency of step motor torque, distance between nozzle and the printing surface, producibility with reasonable budget, and flexibility. The distinctive feature of this study, unlike robot-aided additive manufacturing applications, is that it can be achieved with a low budget. The study is expected to be useful for designers who are interested in designing bespoke additive manufacturing solutions for double-curved and spherical geometries.

Beton Kabuk Strüktür Tasarımı Bağlamında Hesaplama ve Örme

Bu yazi Aralik 2017’ de ITU Mimari Tasarimda Bilisim Lisansustu Programi’nda yayinlanan ‘’Computi... more Bu yazi Aralik 2017’ de ITU Mimari Tasarimda Bilisim Lisansustu Programi’nda yayinlanan ‘’Computing and Knitting: Experiments on Tailoring Concrete and Knitted Textile for Shell Structures‘’ baslikli tezden uretilmistir. Tezde, karmasik bicimlerdeki beton kabuk strukturlerin uretilebilirligi uzerine malzeme ozelliklerinden ve hesaplamali tasarim araclarindan yararlanarak gelistirilen butunlesik bir tasarim ve uretim yaklasimi onerilmektedir. Arastirmada, beton ve orulmus tekstilin kompozit kullanimi sirasinda elde edilen bulgular ve ciktilar uzerine odaklanilmistir. Baslangicta esnek ve kolay bicimlenebilen bir malzemeden yararlanmak hedeflenirken, farkli bir kaliba gerek duyulmadan rijit bir strukturel davranis gosteren hafif beton kabuk olusturmanin potansiyelleri ele alinmistir. Calisma kapsaminda yapilan deneyler, malzeme deneyleri, bicim arayisi-dijital simulasyonlar ve fiziksel prototip uretimi olmak uzere uc ana baslik altinda toplanmistir. Mikro olcekte yapilan malzeme deney...

Mimari Nesneyi Değerlendirmek İçin Mereolojik Bir Çerçeve

Journal of computational design, Mar 31, 2021

gibi akademisyenlerin de yer aldığı bir akım için kullanılan şemsiye bir terimdir. 2 Şekil-Zemin ... more gibi akademisyenlerin de yer aldığı bir akım için kullanılan şemsiye bir terimdir. 2 Şekil-Zemin (figure-ground) ilişkisi: Algıda seçicilik kuramına göre, insanın algılama sistemi şekil ve zemin arasında bir ayırım yapar, dikkatin yoğunlaştığı kısım şekil, diğer yüzeyler zemindir. Şekil, dikkatin üstünde odaklandığı, zemin ise şeklin gerisinde, dikkat edilmeyen, algı alanına girmeyen kısımdır. Bu yüzden şekil ve zemin mutlak kavramlar değildir, dikkatin yoğunlaştığı noktaya göre şekil ve zemin değişir.

An Evaluation of Augmented Reality-Based User Interfaces in the Design Process

APJ, Mar 30, 2023

The aim of this study is to evaluate the user interfaces that reflect different interaction layer... more The aim of this study is to evaluate the user interfaces that reflect different interaction layers in the context of Augmented Reality technology. Depending on the physical characteristics of human interaction with the computer, these layers were examined under four sections: Graphical User Interface (GUI), Tangible User Interface (TUI), Natural User Interface (NUI) and Spatial User Interface (SUI). In this context, a proposed Augmented Reality application interface has been developed to bridge the physical and digital environment. The use of AR-based applications in the design process provided a basis for evaluating the user interface in these interaction layers. In future studies, the interface and experience offered by this application have the potential to be supported by more comprehensive functions and a collaborative working environment.

Beyond Flat Surfaces Parametric Derivations of Historical Islamic Geometric Designs

Architecture and Planning Journal (APJ)

This paper sets out to identify a guiding methodology and define algorithms to extend the existen... more This paper sets out to identify a guiding methodology and define algorithms to extend the existence of Islamic geometric designs beyond flat surfaces. The paper discusses two computational approaches to deriving various non-flat geometric compositions: Euclidean Point Extrusion and Curved Surface Fitting. The paper examines historical precedents, conducts an in-depth analysis of patterns employed to generate those elements, then establishes a computational process to explore the potential of translating 2D Islamic Geometric Designs into 3D non-flat surfaces.

A Recursive Algorithm for the Generative Study of Seljuk Muqarnas in Kayseri and Sivas

Nexus Network Journal

Computational Thinking and the Architectural Curriculum - Simple to Complex or Complex to Simple?

Proceedings of the 34th International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe) [Volume 1]

Recent trends in architectural education and practice have encouraged the use of computational to... more Recent trends in architectural education and practice have encouraged the use of computational tools and methods for solving complex design problems. Newer technology can augment the design process by applying progressively more-advanced computational tools. However, the complex nature of these tools can lead to students getting lost at the skill-building stage, they can become trapped in computational design terminology, leading to designs of limited spatial quality. This paper introduces a pilot study from Izmir University of Economics (IUE) for the integration of computational design technology in the undergraduate architectural curricula, based on a workshop series using a top-down teaching strategy.

Comparison of Designers’ Modeling Approaches During Architectural Design Process

Proceedings of the 27th International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe), 2009

This study has been started as a part of a research, related to exploring impact of novel interfa... more This study has been started as a part of a research, related to exploring impact of novel interfaces during collaborative architectural design process on designers' way of thinking. However, in this paper it is intended to focus on how the input devices reflect on designers' modeling behavior in computer environment. Therefore it is intended to compare designer's modeling approaches in computer environment via a case study. Four master students in architectural design computing graduate program have attended to the case study. The findings of the case study is presented and evaluated in the discussion section.

Computational Modeling and Analysis of Seljukid Muqarnas in Kayseri

Journal on Computing and Cultural Heritage

As a historical and ornamental building element, muqarnas are widely found among the entrances of... more As a historical and ornamental building element, muqarnas are widely found among the entrances of madrasas, mosques, and hans in Anatolian Seljuk architecture. In Kayseri (Turkey), muqarnas structures are characterized by symmetrical distribution of patterned geometric layers that presents computational rules for the design and construction of these ornamental structures. The presented research focuses on 12 unique muqarnas structures that are analyzed through a computational methodology combining photogrammetry, three-dimensional modeling, symmetry, and graph theory. The computational analysis shows that Seljukid muqarnas exhibit patterned branching of the symmetry axis between layers radiating from their geometric center. Using the modeled samples, the article analyzes inherent symmetry rules and growth patterns while offering a novel way of studying, modeling, and categorizing muqarnas.

Design to Experiment—Experiment to Design: Tool- (User, Breaker, Designer)

Formal Methods in Architecture, 2021

Annotation by Adapting the User Interface

This project aims at improving the user experience regarding multimedia content annotation. We ev... more This project aims at improving the user experience regarding multimedia content annotation. We evaluated and compared current timeline-based annotation tools, so as to elicit user requirements. We address two issues: 1) adapting the user interface, by supporting more input modalities through a rapid prototyping tool and by offering alternative visualization techniques of temporal signals; and 2) covering more steps of the annotation workflow besides the task of annotation itself: notably recording multimodal signals. We developed input devices components for the OpenInterface (OI) platform for rapid prototyping of multimodal interfaces: multitouch screen, jog wheels and pen-based solutions. We modified an annotation tool created with the Smart Sensor Integration (SSI) toolkit and componentized it in OI so as to bind its controls to different input devices. We produced mockups sketches towards a new design of an improved user interface for multimedia content annotation, and started d...

Understanding a city from its visuals: An interdisciplinary program proposal

2017 25th Signal Processing and Communications Applications Conference (SIU), 2017

This study aims to provide an overview on the intersection and interaction between architecture, ... more This study aims to provide an overview on the intersection and interaction between architecture, urban modeling, planning fields and computer vision field. The reflection of the methods and approaches of fields such as visual recognition, natural language processing, data mining and data visualization onto architecture and urban studies are investigated and potentials of inter/transdisciplinary encounters are unfolded through research questions. This study can be considered as an initial attempt to constitute a common and sustainable platform for advancing efficient inter/transdisciplinary and cross-domain collaborations.

Adaptability of Primary and Middle Schools to Post-Pandemic Reuse - A Discussion in the Context of Flexibility

Journal of Design Studio, 2020

This study discusses how the existing primary and middle school buildings can be adapted to the n... more This study discusses how the existing primary and middle school buildings can be adapted to the new needs emerging in the Covid-19 process. The three levels of adaptation are defined as follows: Building envelope-outdoor space relationship, plan layout-function relationship, and furniture relocation. In the scope of this study, five selected school plans were evaluated in the context of flexibility in the plan layout-function relationship. In this study, the concept of “adaptation” is considered as a design approach at the early design phase and/or intervention to respond to a new need in the life cycle of the building.

How to teach Architects (Computer-) Programming

Proceedings of the 29th eCAADe, 2011

Abstract. Computer programming in architecture seems to be commonplace throughout the eCAADe Comm... more Abstract. Computer programming in architecture seems to be commonplace throughout the eCAADe Community. Yet, a critical evaluation of a programming course as seen from a student's side is still missing. During a week-long programming workshop in a fellow university, we have been assessing subjective parameters such as mood, quality of presentation and comprehensibility, comparing these to the actual topics that were covered at this instance. Our results contribute to understanding architecture students in their quest ...

Can AI Function As A New Mode of Sketching

International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning (iJET)

This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can be integrated into first-year design... more This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can be integrated into first-year design education. The goal of the study is to examine how students combine orthographic projections with AI-generated images. To answer this question, a design representation course called Visual Communication I (VC-I), taught at Istanbul Technical University’s Faculty of Architecture, was selected. A three-step assignment called “ISO-meets-AI” was planned and implemented in the VC-I. The steps of the assignment were as follows: (i) producing orthographic projections of created physical compositions; (ii) generating image output from text input using an AI program (Midjourney); and (iii) combining the AI-generated images with the orthographic projections. The assignment was completed by 50 students from the departments of architecture, interior architecture, and industrial design. Tutors defined the evaluation categories and sub-criteria based on an initial analysis. While tutors evaluated eve...

Bir Kenti Resimlerinden Anlamak: Disiplinlerarası Bir Araştırma Programı Önerisi // Understanding A City From Its Visuals: An Interdisciplinary Program Proposal; Akgül CB, Sönmez NO ve Alaçam S

by Nizam Onur Sönmez and Sema Alaçam

Özetçe— Bu çalışmada mimarlık, kent modelleme ve planlama alanı ile yapay görme alanının kesiştiğ... more Özetçe— Bu çalışmada mimarlık, kent modelleme ve planlama alanı ile yapay görme alanının kesiştiği ve etkileştiği arakesitteki kuramsal ve uygulamalı araştırmalar gruplanarak özetlenmektedir. Yapay görme, görsel tanıma, doğal dil işleme, veri madenciliği ve veri görselleştirme gibi yöntem ve yaklaşımların mimarlık ve kent modelleme alanına günümüzdeki izdüşümleri irdelenerek ve disiplinlerarası/ötesi ortaklıkların yakın gelecekteki potansiyelleri araştırma soruları üzerinden tartışılmaktadır. Disiplinlerarası/ötesi verimli işbirliklerinin geliştirilebilmesi bağlamında, ortak ve sürdürebilir bir platform kurulmasına katkı sunmak amaçlanmaktadır. Anahtar Kelimeler — mimarlık ve yapay görme; kent modelleme; görsel tanıma ve modelleme. Abstract— This study aims to provide an overview on the intersection and interaction between architecture, urban modeling, planning fields and computer vision field. The reflection of the methods and approaches of fields such as visual recognition, natural language processing, data mining and data visualization onto architecture and urban studies are investigated and potentials of inter/transdisciplinary encounters are unfolded through research questions. This study can be considered as an initial attempt to constitute a common and sustainable platform for advancing efficient inter/transdisciplinary and cross-domain collaborations.

Integrating The Algorithmic Tectonics To The Design Process With CAD/CAM: Challenges and Opportunities

Architectural Sciences and Technology, 2021

Generative Manifolds of Muqarnas Patterns

Medios Digitales, Arte, Identidad Cultural, Umberto Luigi Roncoroni Osio (Ed.), Fondo Editorial USMP, 2018

Throughout history, mathematicians from different cultures and places traced other scholars' work... more Throughout history, mathematicians from different cultures and places traced other scholars' work to make a contribution and extend the knowledge of the geometry field. In the Islamic world, artisans combine the theoretical knowledge about geometry and making skills to build more sophisticated and complicated geometric patterns. Today, the underlying principles of geometric patterns are still a research subject of many physicists andmathematicians. Geometric patterns are used both in design and construction phases of muqarnas which is a specialized spatial element in Islamic Architecture. In the scope of this study, after a comprehensive analysis, new muqarnas patterns are generated by using algorithms.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN EDUCATION THROUGH A WORKSHOP: EXPERIMENTING WITH DIGITAL MEDIA

by Ahu Sokmenoglu, Sema Alaçam, and esra gurbuz

VII. Mimarlıkta Sayısal Tasarım Ulusa Sempozyumu: Sayısal Tasarım, Entropi, Yaratıcılık

by Sema Alaçam and Zeynep Bacınoğlu

VII. Mimarlıkta Sayısal Tasarım Ulusa Sempozyumu: Sayısal Tasarım, Entropi, Yaratıcılık, 2013