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Hyperdialectics of Tolerance and Play in Architectural Drawings


Mohammad Moezzi,University of Calgary
Ahad Armin, Simon Fraser University

 

This paper presents series of speculative architectural drawings resulting from collaborations between two Canadian educators: one from Simon Fraser University's Department of Mechatronic Systems Engineering, the other from the University of Calgary's School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape. Divided into four parts, it first explores the shared historical roots of drawing approaches in engineering and architecture, focusing on descriptive geometry pioneered by Gaspard Monge in the 18th century. It discusses how both disciplines utilize this technique, despite employing different methods and software today. The second part presents the concept of tolerance identified through studies of method of measurement in engineering drawings. The third part, showcases a series of architectural drawings challenging the concept of tolerance in measurement. Finally, it discusses interpretations of these drawings and their impact on advancing architectural drawing methods.

 

The Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) system, commonly used in engineering drawings, precisely defines mechanical parts' geometry and allowable variations in orthographic projections. Presenters view this concept as paradoxical: while striving for flawless precision with tolerance, these drawings also acknowledge the possibility of failure and error. To cast light upon this paradox, the presenters adopt a hyperdialectical philosophy inspired by Phenomenology of Perception, written by Maurice Merleau-Ponty, French philosopher. To implement this method, the "play theory," is introduced as a counterargument to tolerance in architectural drawing, contrasting the rigid requirements of GD&T with the acceptance of free action in architecture. Theoretical aspects of the play are introduced by referencing the works of Hans-Georg Gadamer and Johan Huizinga. While engineering emphasizes precise manufacturing, architecture embraces ambiguity in hand-drawings, which necessitates the participation of the audience in the interpretation of the drawings. Seeking to transcend this dichotomy, the presented drawings experiment with computer software in a manual manner. By representing elevations of existing well-known buildings with AutoCAD, "Arc de Triomphe," "Louis Kahn’s House of the Nation," and "Vanna Venturi’s House," they explore retaining ambiguity, blurring the lines between tolerance and play. The resulting drawings subvert AutoCAD's tools, layering thousands of dimension lines to symbolize digital precision.

 

The presenters discuss that the drawings produced offer qualities beyond conventional methods. Lacking clear geometric outlines, they prompt viewer engagement through memories of iconic buildings as well as imagination and subtle cues within the assembly of dimension lines. Stark white lines against a traditional blueprint-like backdrop intentionally defy the typical CAD image. Each dimension line contributes to the overall tonality, with numerical values adding to the visual narrative of tolerance. Perceptual dynamics shift with proximity, transforming the drawings into enigmatic presences that invite more exploration. The drawings are introduced as paradoxes, utilizing digital precision to evoke play and ambiguity. Rather than opposing the dominance of digital tools with engineering and mathematical roots, the paper proposes hyperdialectical method to challenge conventional norms in architectural digital drawing.

 

Keywords: Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), Hyperdialectical Phenomenology, Play Theory, Architectural Digital Drawing


Biography

Mohammad Moezzi is an architectural designer, educator, and researcher, specializing in drawing and existential phenomenology. With a decade of experience teaching architecture and drawing theories in Eqbal University, Azad University, and Praxis Studio in Iran, he is currently a sessional instructor and PhD candidate at the University of Calgary in Canada. His architectural drawings and writings have been exhibited and published at venues like the "Frascari Symposium VI" at Washington Alexandria Architecture Centre in the U.S., and "Researching Beyond Words" at École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Lyon (ENSAL) in France.

Ahad Armin, a professional mechanical engineer, boasts a wealth of experience in academia and industry. Currently holding the position of Lecturer at Simon Fraser University, he brings over ten years of teaching expertise to his role. Ahad's research focus lies in Solid Mechanics, an area he pursued during his Ph.D. studies in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. His extensive industrial background spans machine design, robotics, and stress/strain analysis, further complemented by his engineering drawing skills. Ahad's proficiency in CAD/CAM modeling and rapid prototyping further showcases his comprehensive skill set in mechanical engineering and drawing practices.