DATE: 4:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010.

EVENT: Demonstrations of the new seven-axis robot and other industrial research technologies that enable architectural fabrication and representation will be conducted as part of an open house hosted by the University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning.

The addition of the robot to Michigan’s Digital Fabrication Lab (FAB Lab) makes it one of the most robust architectural research labs maintained by any institution in the country. Computer aided design and fabrication will improve quality of built outcomes while reducing production waste.

The robot has a work volume of 30’x10’x8′, which is the equivalent size of two small trucks. The machine loads milling heads to cut wood and foam, or a water-jet head for 3-D cutting of any material. The robotic-abrasive water jet has the ability to follow compound-curved surfaces, and cuts with minimal lateral forces, simplifying material setups.

The robot also utilizes various grippers for material forming or assembly processes.

The FAB Lab also maintains computer-numerical controlled (CNC) machines; a three-axis abrasive water jet cutter; three-axis milling machine for 3-D cutting; and rapid prototyping machines.

The tools aid students and faculty in gaining new ground in material design, production and use through experimentation with traditionally difficult materials to work with.

Lab tours, demonstrations and student work will be on display during the open house, which is open to the public.

PLACE: Art and Architecture Building, 2000 Bonisteel Blvd., Room 1227, Ann Arbor.

SPONSORS: U-M’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, U-M’s Office of the Provost.

Free and open to the public.

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