Hello from the interactive structures lab!

We investigate and develop interactive computational design tools that enable digital fabrication of complex structures for novice users. Interactive structures embed functionality within their geometry such that they can react to simple input with complex behavior. Such structures enable materials that can, e.g., embed robotic movement, can perform computations, or communicate with users.

HCI + computational geometry + engineering + design

We focus on material discovery by broadening participation. We develop optimization-based interactive design tools that enable novices to contribute their creativity and experts to apply their intuition in order to foster the advancement of high-tech materials. We investigate the entire pipeline, i.e., their mechanical structure, the algorithms for efficient design, the unforeseen application areas and fabrication methods.

The Interactive Structures lab is led by Prof. Alexandra Ion at CMU HCII.
Reach out to join the team. CMU students, see current research opportunities.

news

Recent Awards

Nov 8, 2023

Violet received a Best Paper Award for her work on BlendMR. Her first paper she ever submitted! Well-deserved, Violet!

Jesse received a Best Demo Award at UIST'23 for his impressive Contstraint-Diven Robotic Surfaces. It was a big effort bringing them across the country and a well-deserved honor!

Huge congratulations to Violet and Jesse!