Computation & Digital Fabrication Lab
Freelance Computational R&D for Uniplan (June 2022) • Cologne, Germany
Uniplan (Freelance R&D)
Established prior to joining full-time in August 2022, this freelance computational R&D engagement for Uniplan in Cologne served as an advanced innovation testbed bridging algorithmic geometry, digital fabrication, and temporary architecture realization.
Led by Priyank Soni in collaboration with the creative engineering team, the lab explored fast-turnaround prototyping for international brand experience pavilions and stage designs. Work encompassed custom robotic toolpath generation, multi-material additive manufacturing, reactive physical computing with microcontrollers, and real-time kinetic simulations.
The prototypes and experimental fabrication workflows developed in the lab directly informed full-scale realization across major European events including Deutsche Telekom DIGITAL X, OGE GatWat, and Michelin Star Revelation.
Algorithmic Geometry & Rapid Prototyping Workflows
The lab utilized parametric Grasshopper scripts, Python automation, and physical FDM/SLA 3D printing to validate complex geometries before structural shop fabrication. Iterative physical mockups allowed rapid testing of joinery tolerances, illumination light-bleed, and assembly ergonomics.
Physical prototype laboratory for computational architecture and brand installations
Kinetic Hardware, Sensorics & Motion Testing
The lab developed custom micro-actuator mechanisms, responsive LED drivers, and optical tracking sensor rigs. By simulating kinetic motion cycles physically, mechanical fatigue and power budgets were tuned for high-traffic live public deployments.
Parametric node optimization and custom junction design
Sensor-driven microcontroller hardware prototyping
Material Innovations & Live Pavilion Implementations
Technological insights from the lab translated into high-impact live experiences across Europe, including generative lantern arrays for the OGE GatWat pavilion, dynamic stages for Deutsche Telekom at DIGITAL X, and bespoke scenographies for international corporate clients.
Material translucency and illuminated surface prototyping
Realized brand architecture translation on the exhibition floor