University of Technology Sydney homepage

Dr

Nico Pietroni

Professor

School of Computer Science

FUNDED RESEARCH

My work explores how we can represent, understand, and transform three-dimensional shapes using mathematics, algorithms, and creative design tools. I am particularly interested in how techniques such as geometry processing, surface abstraction, mesh parametrisation, digital fabrication, and architectural geometry can come together to bridge the gap between the digital and the physical world, turning ideas into objects that are both beautiful and functional

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Parametrisation and Remeshing

A key part of my research is developing methods to describe complex 3D shapes in simpler, more manageable ways. This process  (known as parametrisation) involves mapping complicated surfaces onto simpler domains. Remeshing then restructures these shapes so they are easier to animate, simulate, or manufacture.

My focus is not just on technical conversions but on shape abstraction: capturing the essential features of a shape while reducing unnecessary complexity. By doing this, we can make 3D models easier to edit, more efficient to process, and more suitable for a wide range of applications, from visual effects and animation to industrial design and manufacturing.

 

Digital Fabrication

One of the most exciting parts of this work is translating digital designs into real, physical objects. While 3D printing has transformed how we make things, it still comes with challenges such as small build volumes, long print times, and strict material requirements.

To address these issues, I explore alternative approaches to fabrication. For example, complex shapes can be approximated with flat, interlocking panels that are easy and inexpensive to produce using techniques like laser cutting. These panels assemble into lightweight, self-supporting structures and can be tailored to emphasise the geometry and aesthetics of the original design.

I’m also interested in how we can design with fabrication in mind from the very start — ensuring that objects are not only visually striking but also practical to assemble and manufacture. This has applications in everything from product and furniture design to large-scale installations and public art.

 

Architectural Geometry

Architecture is a natural space where geometry, structure, and creativity intersect. My work in this area focuses on designing and optimising complex, free-form structures that are both beautiful and structurally efficient.

A particular interest is grid-shell structures, lightweight frameworks used to span large spaces like atriums, pavilions, or exhibition halls. While triangular patterns are common, modern design increasingly favours quadrilateral or polygonal layouts that offer new aesthetic possibilities without compromising strength.

By combining computational design with structural optimisation, I aim to help architects and engineers create innovative forms that are visually expressive, structurally sound, and practical to build.

 

Vision

The way we think about 3D shapes is constantly evolving. In the past, the challenge was to model them on a screen. Today, it’s about fabricating them in the real world. Tomorrow, the real opportunity lies in designing new kinds of shapes — ones that are deeply aware of how they will be built, used, and experienced.

I believe that the future of design will depend on tools that bring together shape understanding, optimisation, and fabrication into a single process. These tools will help us explore vast design spaces, discover new possibilities, and seamlessly transform digital ideas into physical reality.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a pipeline where geometry becomes a bridge — connecting imagination to construction, algorithms to artistry, and digital thinking to the built world around us.

FUNDED RESEARCH

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Showing page 1, funded research 1 to 6 of 6
  • GRANT
    Australian Research Council1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2028
    People funded by this grant: Vidal-Calleja T, Pietroni N, Dansereau D, Williams S, Peynot T
  • GRANT
    DIGITAL OPTIMIZATION OF PERSONALISED SPACESUIT
    Investment NSW11 Oct 2023 - 11 Oct 2024
    People funded by this grant: Pietroni N, Falque R, Rambhatla K, Vidal Calleja T
    Space Research Network - (NSW Space Research Network)
  • GRANT
    CRC-P Shoulder Replacement Implant Design for Additive Manufacturing
    25 May 2021 - 31 Dec 2022
    People funded by this grant: Behrens M, Harvard H, Pietroni N, Tavakoli J
    Cooperative Research Centre - Projects CRC-P - (CRCPSIX000038)
  • CONSULTING
    Create hex dominant meshes for 6 sample geometries; 3 tasks.
    HyPerComp Inc30 Jul 2020 - 15 Nov 2021
    People funded by this grant: Pietroni N
    Hypercomp Inc
  • GRANT
    Development of novel sensing, modelling and geometry processing methods to provide with awareness and dexterity enabling robots to play an increasing role in digital fabrication
    University of Technology Sydney1 Aug 2019 - 31 Dec 2020
    People funded by this grant: Schork T, Vidal Calleja T, Pietroni N, Dang TTA, Paul G
    UTS Collaboration
  • GRANT
    Crowd-Sourcing 3D Scanning Project: Advanced Mesh Merging
    Traffik Marketing Pty Ltd1 Sep 2017 - 31 Mar 2018