File to Factory Technology: A Flexible Process for Expanding Capabilities and Accessibility of Customized Architectural Products

ABSTRACT This paper addresses the reasons for the flourishment of mass-production and its impacts on the built environment followed by the initiation of critical regionalism discourse and its applications within the realm of digital architecture. Methodology of this research is based on literature review and case study analysis, indicating how the refinement of digitally driven production process can serve the architectural values, based on a brief comparison of the processes of work in design and build companies with varied approaches in applying the digital technology. As the fundamental elements of digital production, machine and the software controlling it need to link with production strategies to unleash the digital capabilities in order to deliver both customization and economy to architectural projects by transforming the design and construction operations. The ultimate goal of this research is to demonstrate how flexible production systems are becoming available for construction sector by applying ‘File to Factory’ technology. The unified process of design and construction, delivering superior potential for improvement compared to older methods of prefabrication and industrialized architecture. Architects could have more control over the design and construction process; in addition, automated processes and the precision of digital tools have equipped them with a large capacity to evolve the generation, evaluation and construction of highly complicated forms. This can lead to revival of regionalism (within the contemporary context) and customization of the architectural products while delivering economy. Most of these techniques were initiated by large financial investments and began their presence in industries as complicated and expensive methods. As a huge step forward towards the democratization of the architectural services, it is desirable for all of these potentials to transform gradually in a way to be accessible by the majority of the population.

Keywords:

_File-to-Factory technology , Mass customization , Critical regionalism , Digital architecture