Design and manufacturing process in digital architecture

ABSTRACTIn contemporary architecture, digital media tools are not only used for representation but alsofor the purpose of design. Academic research studies are being made in the field of computeraided design since 1960s. However, the application of these technologies in architecture couldonly be performed in 1990s. It is a fact that computer aided technologies opened the way fornew opportunities in architectural design and manufacturing process. The most importantissue is the way an architect uses these tools in the process of form creating. The use ofcomputer technologies in digital architecture has been investigated under the name of digitaldesign and manufacturing technologies.Computer aided design technologies provides the architect with new alternatives in form andits transformations. The experimental and practical applications in the digital age show thatthe role of the architect should be redefined in the building process.It is important to see that the design and manufacturing processes are very relevant with eachother. In case studies the projects which involve the use of digital technologies areinvestigated.A new architectural morphology is being created by the use of digital technologies by meansof conceptual, formal, and tectonic explorations. Digital design and manufacturing processesrequire a cooperative work with an interdisciplinary approach. Consequently, architect hasbecome an information master, directing and organizing this cooperative process.Keywords: digital design and manufacturing technologies, digital architecture, designmethodologiesii