Convolutional Neural Networks
& Human-Centric Design
Developing assistive tools
for human-originated design
This independent research project encompassed the development of an artificial intelligence model capable of detecting and identifying the principles of design and architecture in a given composition through deep convolutional neural networks. In collaboration with his students and Dr.gGozdeEUnal, Joseph studied the principles of architecture and design as well as their applications, and developed and iterated a custom training dataset that demonstrates the key visual design principles. The data consists of digital, photographic and physical media that has been critiqued and evaluated by the team of researchers, each for its various characteristics.​​​
Sustainable Alternatives to Conventional Materiality
Contemporary bas-relief, friezes, keystones, cornices, columns, capitals, and other components often utilize thermoformed/vacuum-formed plastics, or expanded polystyrene to create these elements. A number of plastics can be thermoformed including Acrylic (PMMA) Polycarbonate (PC) Polyethylene (PE) Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) polypropylene (PP) Polystyrene, to list a few. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS) characterized by how they are produced are often used for carved detail as it can be laminated, carved, sanded and coated for protection. This research asks the question: with plastic pollution being such an urgent global crisis, how can practitioners mitigate the adverse effects these materials have on the environment?
XPS is manufactured with chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which break down our protective ozone layer that shields the earth’s surface from damaging UV rays. When the foam is broken, carved, cut or heated it releases CFCs into the air. EPS and XPS are not biodegradable, and small particles induce a variety of toxic in humans, animals, and marine life. This research seeks to exploit experimentation and adaptive use of materials to the advantage of sustainability such as latex casting and plaster slip-molding to consider what eco-friendly practices in our toolset we can adapt to mitigate, offset, or replace the harmful ones in the live entertainment industry.​
Prototype Eutopia
Research & developing modular cityscapes of tomorrow
The Prototype Eutopia project investigates the design of a modular city framework that addresses real-world sustainability challenges through adaptable, scalable, and resilient urban systems. The project explores how modular urban design can integrate best practices in green infrastructure, sustainable architecture, and contemporary urban planning to reduce environmental impact while enhancing social and economic well-being.​
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Scalable Reuse
Reclaimed material influences form and function
This applied investigation explores the specification of reclaimed material to lower environmental impact, and conversely influence the form of design. As construction and demolition waste contribute significantly to global landfill volumes, the reuse of material, such as concrete aggregate or reclaimed pine in this study, present an opportunity to reduce environmental impact while imbuing meaning in open space designs and products designed by Joseph Napolitano.​​​​
