Models, Prototypes and Archetypes : Reading Response

"File to factory" an appropriation from the aeronautical design industry that is used to describe the direct transfer of CAD file data to CNC manufacturing. Do we need to redefine the role of 'model','prototype', and 'archetype' if we use machines to create these working objects? What is the long term impact of 3D printing? (Mark Burry)

Señor Mallo saw the 1:10 wax prototypes to only be useful in seeing the geometry but making 1:1 pro types would allow him to accurately engage and learn from the geometry's he would have to cut. Señor Mallo used a wire cutter to rough cut the stone with a centimeter of the finished ruled surface which then allowed him to finish the stone to perfection by hand.

File-to-factory modes of operation are becoming more readily available to designers alike. Allowing the production of many scaled models and prototypes gives the designer the ability to quickly make design decisions based on a variety of feedbacks. Scale models and prototypes are quickly blurring into the same, allowing the model to serve two purposes. Mark Burry see's this as the mergence of an entirely new archetype for new architectural responses that fit our time.