Paneling complex surfaces: from research to teaching between theory & practice. Discretizzazione di superfici complesse: dalla ricerca alla didattica tra teoria e prassi.

The complexity of contemporary forms can be investigated from different points of view. The technological aspect is very important because it is closely linked to the current tools of computational design and digital fabrication, now based on the logic of visual scripting and, therefore, more accessible to a wide range of users. From the past to the present, the architect is called to deepen the basic theoretical contents of the creation and communication of architecture and to optimize the problems that affect the feasibility of the architecture, developing and disseminating new solutions in the professional field as in teaching and research fields. More specifically, in a PhD thesis research developed in the of Ph.D. course of study in Architectural Techonology and Architectural and Environmental Representation at the DiArc_Department of Architecture, University Federico II, Naples (Italy), the topic of the discretization and paneling of complex surfaces was developed to systematize the basic and advanced principles that are capable of supporting the elaboration of possible solutions and innovative approaches to this constructive, economic and aesthetic problem. Concretely, thanks to the collaboration developed during a workshop sponsored by the research center Medaarch_ Mediterranean Academy of Architecture - Mediterranean FabLab (Cava de’Tirreni, Salerno, Italy), the object of the experiment was the physical construction of a pavilion standing discretized in planar hexagonal panels. Therefore, this experience demonstrates how the cooperation between academia, research centers and specialized local companies throughout the territory is important because it allows to strengthen and integrate the expertise of all those involved and encourages the development of multidisciplinary approaches. So, this experience is the stimulus and the outcome of a specific search path developed by the PhD thesis research, as well as an important opportunity to realize the content of current advanced research conducted within the research field of Architectural Geometry, with important consequences in Sciences of Representation’s disciplinary field and, more specifically, of the Applications of Descriptive Geometry. In addition, these experiences represent an important source of inspiration useful to start an innovative and challenging educational offer, organizing equipped laboratories inside universities and specific first level courses. Therefore, to demonstrate and deepen these reflections, it is interesting to show results, theoretical and practical, of the research experience and teaching reflections between theory and practice.