Sustainable Architecture and Construction through Computational Design for Digital Fabrication

You are cordially invited to attend the Research Seminar: Sustainable Architecture and Construction through Computational Design for Digital Fabrication by Charmaine Ng

Date: 15 February 2024 (Thurs)
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Venue: SDE 4 Level 5 Forum

Abstract
Architecture and Construction form the foundation of our environment, society and economy. However, the industry accounts for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions, as well as 13% of the global GDP with declining productivity and low digitisation. Innovations and transformations are needed to ensure improvements and sustainable development. This presentation highlights ongoing research that addresses the industry needs with emerging topics including (1) timber architecture and integrated renewable energy systems, (2) industrialised construction and circular construction, (3) energy-efficient complex facade systems and nD BIM simulation for DfMA, (4) robotics and 4D printing of adaptive systems, (5) innovative design and construction management and (6) Construction 5.0 and Society 5.0. The presentation showcases a wide range of research using quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as theoretical network studies. Her work transforms practice into theories and applies theories into practice to deliver scientific and practical contributions that drive the industry forward.

This seminar will discuss the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms into building control system optimizations. By applying data-driven approaches, the AI-aided control algorithm can adapt to dynamic environments, coordinate multiple building systems, and balance multiple optimization objectives. During the seminar, two pivotal methodologies will be discussed: (1) the deployment of adaptive model predictive control specifically tailored for natural ventilation, and (2) the application of multi-agent model-free reinforcement learning in achieving coordinated control. This exploration navigates the path towards more energy-efficient, intelligent, and sustainable buildings.

About the speaker

Charmaine is currently a professor at the Kyoto Institute of Technology in Japan. She received her bachelor’s and master’s in Architecture from ETH Zürich and her second master’s in Building History from the University of Cambridge. She completed her PhD in Civil Engineering and Construction Management at ETH Zurich. Her research focuses on solving complex design problems with technologies and innovations to foster sustainable development.

She gave many lectures on complex facade engineering, DfMA, sustainability and circular construction, BIM and project management at Princeton University, UBC et al. Besides, she has been practising for 10+ years. She is a chartered architect in Switzerland and the U.K., a LEED AP, as well as a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Architectural Institute of Japan. She worked for award-winning firms including Heatherwick Studio on many projects such as the Google Bay View and Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 5.