DFAB 208 Sustainability and Adaptive Design allows students to apply digital design and fabrication techniques within the context of sustainable product design and adaptive design. Students will complete a series of projects using tools such as 3D solid and surface modeling, 3D scanning technologies, and experimental approaches to digital model generation. Digital models will be made physical through a variety of fabrication technologies which can include 3D printing, CNC milling, casting, molding and laser cutting.
Accessibility Services Notice
Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.Course Details| Total number of weeks | 15 |
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| Total Credits | |
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| Total Hours | 75 |
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Typical hours per week breakdown| Lecture | 2 |
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| Lab (lab, field, computer) | 3 |
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Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
- Describe the various methods and applications of sustainable product design
- Describe the various methods and applications of adaptive design
- Design a digital fabrication project by combining multiple techniques with a focus on sustainability
- Design a digital fabrication project by combining multiple techniques with a focus on adaptive design
- Produce design models in physical form using a variety of additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques
Teaching and Learning Approach
This course blends hands-on design experience with essential theory in sustainability and climate science.
Students explore the principles of circular economy and environmentally conscious design through practical,
open-ended design challenges. Rather than following rigid project guidelines, students have the freedom to
investigate sustainable materials and processes that align with their interests, all while developing a
sustainability-focused approach to problem-solving.
The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied learning. Students first build an understanding of
key environmental concepts and circular design principles, then apply this knowledge through practical projects.
This approach helps students grasp the real-world implications of their design choices and prepares them to
create solutions that consider both functional requirements and environmental impact.Learning Resources
Required:
None
Recommended:
TBADetailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered
1. Definitions: sustainability and adaptive design Early climate change theory Mechanisms of climate change Greenhouse gas emissions International summits, agreements, global policy Introduction to biomaterials lab
2. Circular economy theory Developing circular systems and business models Policies (e.g. right to repair)
3. Reading week
4. Circular design techniques and decision making End of life Sustainability certifications and standards
5. Renewable energies (wind, solar, nuclear, fossil fuel, natural gas) Processes: subtractive, additive, transportation Embodied carbon Materials: steel, plastic, cement, woodAssessment
| Title | Learning Outcomes | Value |
|---|
| Biomaterials Lab | 1,2,3 | 35% |
| Upcycled Plastic Lab | 1,2,3 | 35% |
| Participation and Contributions | 1,2 | 30% |
| Total | 100% |
Grading Table
Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table
| Percentage |
Letter Grade |
GPA |
| 90-100 |
A+ |
4.33 |
| 85-89 |
A |
4.00 |
| 80-84 |
A- |
3.67 |
| 76-79 |
B+ |
3.33 |
| 72-75 |
B |
3.00 |
| 68-71 |
B- |
2.67 |
| 64-67 |
C+ |
2.33 |
| 60-63 |
C |
2.00 |
| 55-59 |
C- |
1.67 |
| 50-54 |
P |
1.00 |
| 0-49 |
F |
0.00 |
| |
DNW |
0.00 |
See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.
Disclaimer
Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.