After successful completion of the course, students are able to understand the design process as a problem that can be split into solvable sub-problems. Furthermore, they are able to develop a solution strategy with the help of algorithms. The students acquire the ability to present their ideas for self-developed programs (algorithms) in the form of a storyboard. In general, the specific implementation (i.e., the coding) is not the central focus, but the development of a solution strategy with the aid of algorithms.
The specific planning task that serves as the background for the development of an algorithm is the design of a station for a city cable car. The task should enable students to design the station building with algorithmic support.
The small design studio "connect the dots" combines the design of a station building for a city cable car with digital design strategies.
A number of large cities are using urban cable cars to reach viewpoints, reduce traffic density in the city center, or as a tourist attraction (see Rio de Janeiro, London, Porto, New York, Barcelona, or Cologne). These days, a city cableway is also discussed in Vienna, so to speak, as a "follow-up" to the rail-guided ascents to the Kahlenberg (1874–1919) and the Leopoldsberg (1873–76). The idea of a cable car to relieve traffic pressure is also being considered in Salzburg, Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck. The advantages of a city cable car are its independence from roads (and traffic jams there), its continuous circulation (no waiting time), and the fact that it is considered more environmentally friendly than other means of transport (e.g., cars). Likewise, barriers such as water areas (rivers) or slopes (hillsides) can be overcome.
The design studio is divided into the following parts and is determined by algorithmic thinking:
- The analysis phase includes the following topics: historical development of urban cable cars, environmental factors (relief of inner-city traffic), specific construction details, circulation within the building and wayfinding within the city, technical requirements, etc.
- The development of an algorithm for a (partial) aspect of the design process and its representation as a storyboard
- The individual design, based on the analysis; its representation in floor plan, elevation, sections, interior, and exterior views (if necessary, with details)
Regarding the final design, it is vital to ensure that the process is traceable: from the findings from the analysis phase to the development (theoretical treatment) of the algorithm and the final implementation.
The findings from the analysis phase serve as the basis for developing an architecture, taking into account the functions and the purpose to be fulfilled. To assist the analysis and planning, an algorithm is to be developed that, for example, optimizes design variants or serves directly to generate the shape (of a building part). It is essential to identify the part of the design process that is suitable for the development of an algorithm.
