Form Finding | Genesis Lab

Topological Stereotomic Design of Systems of Interlocking Stackable Modular Blocks for Constructing Multi-Storey Funicular Masonry Buildings

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Authors: Baolian Liu, Qinglu Chen, Pirouz Nourian, Simona Bianchi, Anjali Mehrotra, Shervin Azadi

Abstract:

With the advent of Computer-Aided Design, the design and fabrication of complex free-form shells have become easier to achieve. However, this results in extensive usage of custom-made formworks for the production of shell components and falseworks which provide support for the shell during the construction process. Therefore, a modular design method is proposed for generating form-active spatial structures out of stackable blocks of a few types, having in mind its potential applications such as housing. Instead of shells, spatial masonry structures are thus the main consideration in the design process considering building on top of a vaulted ceiling. By designing a 3D interlocking grid and introducing a four-step topological design that is coupled with structural verification processes based on finite element modelling and discrete element modelling simulations, the geometry of interlocking stackable modular blocks can be automatically generated for constructing such spatial masonry structures. The proposed method ensures that the designed vaults are modular, reconfigurable, and self-supporting during construction, thus increasing the efficiency of mass production while allowing for combinatorial mass customization in designs.

Computational Shape Optimization

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 16:49:47 +0000

Background and aim:

Masonry/Earthy structures can be made with sustainable materials while offering strong structural properties, especially if designed as compression-only structures. Optimal masonry structures might take complex geometric shapes that present computational design and structural validation challenges. We aim to derive optimal shapes directly based on a gradient descent optimization procedure as a constructible structure.

Research question:

How to computationally find optimal catenary forms and approximate them with modular brick/block structures?

Design objective:

To design and prototype a computational finite element modeler for masonry structures.

Methods:

Shape Optimization (req. Calculus, Linear Algebra, etc.)
Computational Geometry & Topology
Finite Element Analysis
Computer Programming (Python or C#)

Computational Topology Optimization

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 16:49:47 +0000

Background and aim:

Masonry/Earthy structures can be made with sustainable materials while offering strong structural properties, especially if designed as compression-only structures. Optimal masonry structures might take complex geometric shapes that present architectural design and structural validation challenges. We aim to develop computational methods & tools for automatic generation of valid structural forms.

Research question:

How to computationally generate valid designs for compression-only brick/masonry structures?

Design objective:

To design and prototype a topology optimization tool for designing masonry structures.

Methods:

Topology Optimization (req. Calculus, Linear Algebra, etc.)
Computational Topology & Geometry
Finite Element Method
Computer Programming (Python)

Generative Solar-Climatic Configuration

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 16:49:47 +0000

Background and aim:

Early design decisions have great influence on final energy performance and comfort of buildings. Proper consideration of such influences requires using simulation engines. The existing simulation methods can be too data demanding and slow for early stage computational design explorations (e.g. in optimization loops or form-finding). The aim of this project is to devise and prototype fast and design-friendly simulation methods for generative design of optimal envelopes.

Research question:

How to adapt and develop direct sunlight and view-shed simulation methods for generation of optimal envelopes?

Design objective:

To design and prototype a suite of generative methods for fair and optimal provision of solar irradiation, radiative cooling potential and view shed.

Methods:

Spatial Computing (Computational Geometry & Linear Algebra)
Physical Analysis of Light and Principles of Naturally Lit Design
Computer Programming (Python or C#)

Maximizing Solar Electricity Yield

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 16:49:47 +0000

Background and aim:

Early design decisions have great influence on final energy performance and comfort of buildings. The costs of installation, maintenance, and the eventual replacement of solar panels cannot be ignored in the financial outlook of a building. This project aims to develop procedures for including such financial considerations in addition to architectural factors in optimal configuration of solar panels.

Research question:

How to configure an optimal array of photovoltaic cells on a building envelope so as to maximize solar electricity yield subject to architectural and economic constraints?

Design objective:

To computationally configure an optimal array of photovoltaics on a building envelope.

Methods:

Spatial Computing (Computational Geometry & Linear Algebra)
Ladybug Recipes (environmental simulation workflows)
Computer Programming (Python)