Robert Otani of CORE Studio at Thornton Tomasetti joins the show to talk about about his journey from a structural engineer in the 90s to leading the CORE Studio at Thornton Tomasetti. This episode covers the importance of computational design, BIM, and the impact of AI and machine learning in the engineering and architecture industries. Rob also shares insights from their recent AEC hackathon, the creation of CORE Studio, and innovative projects like developing an AI tool by capturing the depth of knowledge shared in the emails of a late colleague.
EPISODE LINKS
- Connect with Rob Otani on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/Robert-Otani-PE/
- Thornton Tomasetti’s CORE group - https://www.thorntontomasetti.com/innovation-engine
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
00:55 Rob Otani's Background and Early Career
01:41 Discovering Computational Design
03:46 Embracing BIM and Grasshopper
06:09 Implementing Computational Tools at TT
07:57 Leadership and Enabling Innovation
13:08 Formation of CORE Studio and Hackathons
18:59 R&D Initiatives and External Collaborations
27:26 Machine Learning and Future Directions
28:32 The Essence of Engineering and Knowledge Transfer
29:43 Reinventing the Wheel: The Promise of Machine Learning
31:03 From Hand Calculations to Advanced Tools
33:40 The Role of Machine Learning in Engineering Workloads
35:53 Capturing Knowledge: The Story of Mike
42:46 The Importance of Cataloging Knowledge
47:01 The Future of AI in Architecture and Engineering
49:19 CORE Studio: Team and Initiatives
52:48 Collaborative Apps for the Industry
ABOUT THE SHOW
The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.
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