Legature, intrecci e merletti. Le strutture tessili

The connection of the artefacts’ parts is one the fundamental problem in the project filed. In this sense, the weaving art present interesting aspects for the design and architecture fields, which show, considering the effects of the latest digital revolution, the topicality of Semper’s statements in the classification of materials and construction techniques. Starting from the study of the state of the art and traditional techniques of making Milanese lace, the research’s aim is to digitize and parameterize the construction process. The enhancement of the traditional technique is aimed at the productive reinvention applied to the design of new structural materials, rather than to the mere conservation of the historical artefact or its aesthetic adaptation to contemporary taste. Generative modeling offers a valid solution for digitization and reinterpretation of the repeated lace production process. Once the basic elements, the intertwining or knotting movements and the complete cycle to be repeated are defined, it’s possible to recreate the formal structure using the geometric control of shape and movement parameters. The experimentation shows how the new design and production tools offer the possibility to develop innovative solutions related to the manipulation of formal parameters.