Digiosk Robotic Kiosk

INVESTIGATORS: A. Scott Howe (PI), Padru Kang (Co-I), Omid Nasari (Co-I). Webpage by Katalin Czege.

FUNDING: US$37,700 funded by Kajima Corporation Sendai branch office, Sendai, Japan.

PERIOD: Apr 2001 - July 2001.

ABSTRACT: In this research we will use advanced computer design, modeling, manufacturing techniques, and Kit-of-parts Theory to design, manufacture, and operation of a small robotic deployable demonstration structure called the Digiosk. “Kit-of-parts Theory” refers to the study and application of objectoriented building techniques, where building components are predesigned / pre-engineered / pre-fabricated for inclusion in joint-based (linear element), panel-based (planar element), module-based (solid element), and deployable (time element) construction systems. The Digiosk will function as an exposition display kiosk that will be designed and manufactured digitally, and brought from concept to robotic functionality in a short period of time. Using kinematic mechanisms the cylinder will open up and deploy into a 2.7m cubical display booth complete with integral power and network connections. The kiosk will be designed using a solid modeler, from which data will be extracted to drive digital manufacturing processes. Owing to the well-developed understanding of Kit-of-parts Theory and the new “kinematic architecture” principles, the paperless process is expected to yield a working prototype in only eight weeks after initial conceptualization.

The Digiosk Robotic Kiosk was created as a "hardware" exhibit booth to showcase Kajima Corporation automated construction technology at the Japan Expo in Fukushima 2001: Utsukushima Futures Expo held 7 July - 30 September 2001 in Fukushima, Japan. The Digiosk has also been on display at University of Oregon, Hong Kong University, and Hong Kong Integer Pavilion.

Other relevant links, images, and animations:
Deployment animation (1.2mb)
Deployment video (2.8mb)
Expo webpage, showcasing the Digiosk (html, VRML)

A.S. Howe; P. Kang; O. Nasari (2003). Digiosk: Digital Design to Robotic Deployment in Two Months. Proceedings of Computer Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA2003). 18-20 October 2003, Rangsit, Thailand.