This article presents a project-based research study using a new hybrid augmented reality platform called the Mixed Architectural Robotic Interface. Using the Mixed Architectural Robotic Interface as a mixture of different software and hardware platforms, ranging from design/modeling software, simulation engine, and an augmented reality application, the designer would be able to evaluate the possibilities/limitations of the fabrication, in real time and as part of the design. This method advances designer's understanding of the fabrication equipment as an input for the design decision-making process. This article demonstrates the potential of a virtual/actual hybridized platform as a new medium to design, simulate, and evaluate, in order to enhance the digital design and fabrication. Introducing the possibility of real-time communication between the digital design software and the fabrication platforms as well as the augmented reality simulation of the fabrication process, the Mixed Architectural Robotic Interface enables designers to test the fabrication process with the fabrication equipment in the early stages of the design process. This method makes it possible to move beyond the traditional limitations of machines pursuing "un-expected creativity," without any additional time or cost for the process. Using the virtual material for fabrication, the Mixed Architectural Robotic Interface reduces the time and cost of having multiple iterations and encourages the hands-on experimental use of the fabrication tool (in this article robotic/computer numeric control milling) not only as a production tool but also as a design study tool.

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This paper presents a project-based research study using the beta version ofOriole-a custom-made animation-based plug-in for grasshopper 3D visual programming environment, to develop robotic motion/controlling solutions. Oriole, as a parametric tool, makes it possible for designers/users to ``design''-instead of generating, the motions of the robot based on the notion of keyframing and time-based animation. Through the use of Oriole, users can simulate-and ultimately develop robotic motions/performances in more intuitive ways. This unique feature enables users with minor or no programming background to create robotic solutions using Oriole as a software/plugin Bridge.Using Rhinoceros 3D as a digital modeling platform in conjunction with Grasshopper 3D and its robotic simulation platforms, Oriole can develop controlling strategies for different industrial robots such as KUKA, ABB, and Universal Robots. Oriole enables designers to create a precise interaction between the robot, its spatial ``performance'' and the physical environment, through animation and keyframing to ``design'' robotic interactions and movements as frames of animation instead of segments of a curve ``path.''

This project-based research is an investigation on controlling robotic videography/camera through an interactive physical interface. Here referred to as Robotic Marionette Camera (RMC), this research project is enabling designers and videographers to design precise robotic videography scenarios and camera-paths in the physical world with similar qualities to the digital design environments.Using the ideas of a "digital" camera in design software platforms, RMC looks at concepts such as aiming, zooming in and out, panning, orbiting, and other motions/operations borrowed from cinematography, such as tilting, rolling and trucking amongst others.As a physical/hardware interface, RMC enables real-time interaction with an industrial robot arm through a custom-made hardware controller. Using a tangible interface, RMC users can design, edit, and program the robotic videography paths interactively without a need for programming knowledge.

This paper presents a comprehensive project-based research investigation that uses both drawing and modeling to challenge conventional design space.