The role of parametric design methods to support a circular design and manufacturing process

ReFAB - 
Design of circular and resource efficient processes and products for recycled glass wool. 

ReFAB is a collaborative innovation project on resource efficiency in the building industry focusing on the utilisation of acoustic wall and ceiling absorbers made of glass wool, which define a complex waste stream from the construction and demolition industry. By applying new and more effective manufacturing technologies and parametric design strategies we are innovating and researching the potential of upcycling glass wool panels, to enable new high-value products for future lifecycles of the material.

How can parametric design methods support a circular design process?

Integrated parametric design methods enable real-time feedback on the performative qualities of a design proposal. During the design process different solutions are acoustically evaluated to perfectly fit rooms and functions, working with both diffusion and absorption as parameters. When the design is locked, each panel is generated, storing relevant assembly and performance data. Each unique panel data gets linked to enable AR assisted assembly and intelligent models. This helps us to meet complex acoustical requirements and to design products that have a truly sustainable impact.

We are testing different digital fabrication methods. Form pressing with adaptive molds, enable truly unique designs with less waste from forms. Robotic felting is a non-additive method using non-woven materials, which provides detailing and generates topography. Both methods are explored separately but can be combined.

Parametric design makes it easier to create designs that are modular and scalable, which is beneficial for creating circular systems that can adapt and evolve over time. The digital model guides the manufacturing process, involving machines to cut, shape, and assemble the glass wool into the desired product. When assembled the panels will provide optimised acoustics designs that fit individual clients’ specific demands.

The project is building up and testing a parametric design pipeline from design to manufacturing. Including a parametric design process and a file to factory approach.

Collaborators are Saint-Gobain Ecophon, The Loop Factory, DECIBEL by Johanson, LogTrade Technologies, and Lund University. The project is supported by Vinnova, the Swedish Innovation Agency.