From the natural to the neural network – research showcase

March 2018

ExCel, London

Our partnership with ecobuild continued for 2018, we’re delivering an immersive research feature showcasing projects focused on:

• robotics, as applied in the built environment
• inspired by nature, resulting in green infrastructure and living architecture, and engineering projects based on characteristics from nature.

Find out what we learned from showcasing research at industry-focused events in our ecobuild case study: Research showcase case study: ecobuild 2018. (pdf, 3.5 MB).
We were pleased to welcome the following institutions:

• UK-Robotics and Autonomous Systems Network
• Aerial Robotics Laboratory, Imperial College London
• Robotics@Leeds, University of Leeds
• University of Reading / Royal Horticultural Society
• BiotA Lab, University College London
• National Centre for Earth Observations / University College London
• Space4Climate

Research spotlight

BiotA Lab explores new modes of simulation and production in architecture, as well as advances in the field of synthetic biology, biotechnology, molecular engineering and material sciences, and how these subjects are leading towards an ever-increasing multidisciplinary approach to environmental design. The result is a new sense of materiality, new hybrid technologies and unprecedented living forms that are redefining our built environment.

The work produced in the lab examines growth at the interface between architecture and the ecology that colonises it. Numerous prototypes are being developed that aim to act as a host system to support the growth of cryptogams on the outer substratum layer of buildings. This growth of phototropic organisms serves to improve the thermal properties of proposed components, as well as providing solar absorption and to absorb CO2 and other pollutants from the environment. Advanced digital design methods and fabrication techniques are being employed to manufacture the components, exploring how three dimensional geometries can augment the biological growth and improve panel performance.

• Visit the BiotA Lab website for more information.

And check out our ecobuild 2017 Future materials & processes showcase for information on bringing research straight to industry.