Ruxin Xie

Ruxin (pronounced as Ru-shin) is a researcher, designer, and lifelong maker. Her work lies at the intersection of art, architecture, mechanics, and robotics.  
She lives with a tabby cat named TT — Tiny Tiger. ᓚᘏᗢ

Curriculum vitae
Publications
Contact

2025
XXXBuildfest 2024Bethel, NY, USAXXIXRobotic SetupsPrinceton, NJ, USA
2023
XXVIIIThe ObservatoryCupertino, CA, USA XXVIITree House[Concept]XXVIGoogle StoreSanta Monica, CA, USAXXVCat LampCupertino, CA, USA
2022
XXIVSystems EngagementAnn Arbor, MI, USA
2021
XXIIICocoonAnn Arbor, MI, USAXXIISocial EquilibriaVenice, ItalyXXITopology Optimized Building Envelope Ann Arbor, MI, USAXXPoly-Fractal PackingAnn Arbor, MI, USAXIXPneumatic Origami Self FoldingAnn Arbor, MI, USA
2020
XVIIIDesign Ecologies of Glass[Concept]XVIIArchitecture {AI}[Concept]XVIVolumetric KnittingAnn Arbor, MI, USAXVShelf - Generative DeisignAnn Arbor, MI, USAXIVLight LeakAnn Arbor, MI, USAXIIITriByteAnn Arbor, MI, USAXIIMantaAnn Arbor, MI, USAXIHoursteelAnn Arbor, MI, USA
2019
XContext. Community. Co-op. Core[Concept]IXPlayscapeAnn Arbor, MI, USAVIIIExquisite LampAnn Arbor, MI, USAVIIKnitted InflatablesAnn Arbor, MI, USA
2018
VIEngageAnn Arbor, MI, USAVFantastic Beasts And Here They Are[Concept]IVAnimation and Architecture[Concept]
2017 and Earlier
IIISponge at Crossroad[Concept]IIBridge Church[Concept]IBirdwatching Pavilion[Concept]
Life

Drawings
Photography
Cooking




© 2017–2025 Ruxin Xie
Topology Optimized Building Envelope
Year
2021
Location
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Instructors
Mania Aghaei Meibodi
Wesley McGee
Students
Ben Lawson Christopher Humphrey Colleen Ludwig Gabrielle Clune Mackenzie Bruce Mehdi Shirvani Ruxin Xie Sarah Nail
Status
Built
Material
PETG
Affiliation
Taubman College University of Michigan
Courses
ARCH 707 Material Engagement
ARCH 702 Robotic Engagement
Program
Community Stage
Role
I proposed the idea of using topology optimization to represent mesh relaxation, leading the design and prototype development.
Working with the fabrication team, I addressed constraints like overhangs and branch angles.
I extensively iterated and rebuilt optimized meshes to ensure alignment with both conceptual intent and fabrication requirements.
Tool Box
Fusion360, Rhino, Grasshopper KUKA KR120 6-Axis Industrial Robot



Topology Optimization (TO) is a mathematical method that optimizes material layout in a design space. It considers loads, boundary conditions, and constraints to improve performance. This method identifies and removes areas that do not contribute to stiffness or force flow.

This project combines TO with robotic 3D printing of plastic to create an ultra-lightweight, recyclable, and material-efficient building envelope system. The optimization includes wind and gravity loads and connection points to the building structure. Large-scale pellet extrusion poses challenges in starting and stopping extrusion precisely. This research addresses this issue by developing advanced tool-path strategies and hardware control methods, improving the quality of printed components.


Topology Optimization

This project uses Autodesk Fusion 360’s generative design to optimize the structure’s topology. The process focuses on distributing material along force paths to create strong and efficient forms that integrate seamlessly with the shelf design. Several iterations were developed and refined to improve the branching framework. To explore natural shapes, a soap bubble experiment was conducted. The bubbles demonstrated minimal surfaces that connect the optimized branches to form an enclosure. By combining digital simulations with physical experiments, the design achieves a lightweight, efficient, and visually dynamic structure. The system minimizes waste, reduces material use, and blends form with function effortlessly.




We use a KR120 robotic arm with a pellet extruder to 3D print structures made from PETG pellets, a durable and recyclable material. The resulting structure reaches an overall height of 7’10 1/2”. The branching design posed significant challenges, particularly in controlling the precise start and stop of extrusion at branch connections. These transitions are critical for maintaining the integrity of the complex geometry. To address this, we conducted extensive test prints to refine our process and resolve extrusion timing issues. Using our in-house program, Super Matter Tool, we developed advanced tool paths tailored to the branching geometry. These tool paths, combined with improved hardware control methods, ensured consistent material flow, minimized waste, and produced high-quality prints. The result showcases the potential of robotic 3D printing for lightweight and efficient architectural structures.


The project explores materials and techniques to create a rigid façade system using robotic 3D printing. It aims to make lightweight, geometrically complex components at a low cost with zero waste. Using recyclable materials promotes sustainability, cuts transportation costs, and reduces building weight. By optimizing material use, the project enhances structural efficiency and maximizes façade coverage. The design also focuses on creating multifunctional spaces that offer engaging and exploratory experiences for users. The façade serves as a shelf, integrating seamlessly with the structural optimization of the design.