Proto-Tectonic Weaving System: Computational Design Workflow for Semi-Permeable Self-Supporting Enclosures

This paper aims to present a computationally based methodology and subsequent results arising from the application of weaving techniques for the construction of Weaving Enclosure, an experimental architectural system. The research explores the close correspondence between material properties and assembly systems found in traditional basketry, studied through analytical and laboratory tests, and then implemented through finite element analysis and algorithmic workflow. The goal is to explore how to extend the knowledge gained through a millennial relationship between man and weaving under the perspective of contemporary design and fabrication techniques. In order to do so, a series of computational experiments and simulations have been introduced to highlight the integration of materiality, digital morphogenesis and fabrication. The paper presents a design workflow for the generation of specific geometries related to the elastic nature of the material and the simulation of its behavior based on variable environmental conditions. The results of this method showcase the design and fabrication of an interior partition, which highlights the properties of digitally conceived patterns, tuned parametrically to offer structural resistance and visual screening. The interaction between digital and craft techniques for natural materials represents a promising field to decrease the environmental impact of the construction industry. Nevertheless, novel assembly systems such as wood weaving seem to still have unexplored potential in terms of performative and tectonic characteristics which highlight important findings when approached as a material-driven design and fabrication process

Embedding auxetic properties in designing active-bending gridshells

Advancements in computational tools are offering designers the possibility to change their relationship with materials. The exploration ofauxetic metamaterials, specifically engineered to obtain properties beyond those found in nature, is the promising field examined in this paper. The aim is to define tools and methods in order to design auxetics, and use them tocreate efficient active-bending structures. By programming their geometry through several parameters, it is possible to finely control curvature and structural resistance. The paper describes an original investigation into the process of programming such structures through the use of combined computational tools

A parametric-assisted method for 3D generation of as-built BIM models for the built heritage

The paper outlines a parametric-assisted method for the 3D reconstruction and creation of BIM models for the built heritage. The research implements the emerging paradigms of open sourcing, cloud computing and interoperability, employing low-cost technologies (digital photogrammetry) and open source software (Grasshopper for Rhinoceros) which can ease the accessibility to a potential reuse of heritage, typically requiring high specialists and expensive equipment. The research examines the abandoned Albergo Diurno “Venezia” in Milan, heritage with a unique architectural value – a blend of Liberty and Art Deco styles. The process of 3D reconstruction of the ceiling is described. Custom algorithms have been developed to automatically rebuild the complex and irregular geometry from mesh, towards the creation of a NURBS-based 3D model. It is shown how the proposed methodology can streamline the process of data elaboration by reducing arbitrary operations and improve accuracy to preserve geometric irregularities. The associative model allows the automatic improvement in the model definition when more precise input data is feeding the algorithm, offering the opportunity to relate the precision of BIM models in accordance with the needed level of detail (LOD)

Load-responsive skin systems for lightweight architecture

This paper attempts at defining a novel method for designing integrated building skins taking inspiration from nature, where construction happens as an additive growth process with coherent development of form, structure and performance. The research focuses on the hierarchical structure of bones to challenge the current design paradigms of lightweight architecture. A skin system with highly specific material distribution has been conceived with the use of Additive Manufacturing to efficiently provide structural resistance. A method which encompasses computational design workflow, fabrication experiments and performative assessment of full-scale prototypes produced with Additive Manufacturing is described herein. Algorithms for topology optimization of freeform shapes are employed to determine the material organization as well as a performative matrix for the creation of a custom lattice microstructure defined as Functionally Graded Lattice Structures (FGLS), a system of load-responsive interconnected struts with spatially varying characteristics. Through experiments at different scales the viability of the hierarchical load-bearing envelope is demonstrated as a construction system for free-form lightweight constructions. In conclusion, it is discussed how bio-inspired design strategies contribute significantly to define role-models for catalyzing the potential offered by emerging fabrication technologies in architecture

The Effects of the Myobrace® System on Peripheral Blood Oxygen Saturation (SpO2) in Patients with Mixed Dentition with Oral Dysfunction

Introduction: Myobrace® is an orthodontic device that has the purpose of correcting oral dysfunctions, thus predisposing the physiological growth of the jaws, aligning teeth, and optimizing face development. This device is usually associated with Myobrace® Activities to reach this target. Considering the lack of studies in the literature about peripheral blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and the use of preformed oral devices, the aim of this study is to quantify the change in blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) in patients treated with the Myobrace® System in mixed dentition. Materials and Methods: In this study, 23 children (11 females and 12 males) were involved, who were affected by different oral dysfunctions and were treated with a Myobrace®. Blood oxygen saturation measurements were taken at baseline and after every four months for a year. The SpO2 measurements were taken in the rest position and with a closed mouth for a total of 12 min—6 min with and 6 min without the Myobrace® oral device. All data points were anonymized and recorded on an Excel spreadsheet. A statistical analysis was carried out. Results: Therapy with a Myobrace® in patients with mixed dentition resulted in a statistically significant increase in oxygen saturation. In particular, in patients with a closed mouth, a statistically significant increase in oxygen saturation was observed, bringing it from 97.66% to 99.00%, while in the rest position, the increase was from 98.03% to 99.07%. Conclusions: The use of Myobrace® devices in patients with mixed dentition could lead to a significant improvement in blood oxygen saturation

Early parenting intervention promotes 24-month psychomotor development in preterm children

Aim: Although parenting is key to promoting healthy development of at-risk preterm infants, parents have often restricted access to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). This study aimed to assess the effect of an early parenting intervention on the psychomotor outcome in preterm children at 24 months of corrected age. Methods: Forty-two preterm children and their parents were consecutively recruited at a level III NICU in Northern Italy and randomly allocated to early intervention (two educational peer-group sessions and four individual infant observation sessions) or care as usual (no educational or infant observation sessions). During NICU stay, parents provided information on daily holding and skin-to-skin. Psychomotor development was measured at 24 months of corrected age using the Griffith Mental Development Scales. Results: There were no significant differences in socio-demographic and clinical variables between early intervention (n = 21; 13 females) and care as usual (n = 21; 12 females) groups. At 24 months of corrected age, children in the early intervention arm had greater scores for global psychomotor development as well as for Hearing-Speech and Personal-Social sub-scales, compared to those in the care as usual group. Conclusion: The present NICU parenting intervention was found to be associated with better psychomotor outcomes in preterm children at 24-month age. The effects were especially evident for domains related to language and socio-emotional functioning. Results are promising and should be retested with more heterogeneous and representative preterm sample

Rehabilitation services lockdown during the COVID-19 emergency: the mental health response of caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities

Background: The present study investigated the impact of the COVID-19-related rehabilitation services lockdown on the mental health of caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Methods: Between 26 March and 11 May 2020, 84 caregivers filled out ad-hoc and standardized questionnaires through an online survey in order to measure their psychological response to the emergency and lockdown as well as their levels of parenting stress, anxiety and depression. Results: Worries about COVID-19 contagion and concerns for the child left without rehabilitation programs were the greatest sources of mental health burden for caregivers. Nonetheless, only the concerns for the child were significantly associated with caregivers’ reports of stress, depressive and anxious symptoms. Discussion: These findings highlight the burden faced by caregivers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities during the COVID-19 emergency in Italy. These families should be considered as a high-risk population that requires dedicated healthcare attention, such as promoting continuity of care by investing in tele-rehabilitation programs.Implications for rehabilitation Caregivers of children with disability reported symptoms of anxiety and depression during COVID-19 emergency. Major concerns regarded COVID-19 contagion risk and child development during rehabilitation lockdown. Caregivers' psychological symptoms were associated with concerns for child development during the lockdown. Parents of children with disability may face relevant stress during and after COVID-19 psychological burden. During COVID-19 recovery, policy-makers and clinicians should dedicate specific care actions for families of children with disability