Rigid Surface Structures

Material definitions of Structure and Space

October 7, 2013
by donofrio@uoregon.edu
0 comments

Digital | Parametric Studies

Through the exploration of various physical form finding techniques, we have begun to build an understanding of the intimate relationship of form and structure that is present in rigid surface structures. We have also discovered several limitations of trying to experiment with these forms through physical modeling methods. This assignment we will be exploring the potential of Form Finding in a digital environment. We will begin by developing some simple models in a more constrained particle-spring form-finding tool (CADenary) developed by Axel Killian and John Ochsendorf and then move on to developing more complex models using the Kangaroo Physics plug-in for Rhino/Grasshopper developed by Daniel Piker. This assignment will consist of completing several tutorials outside of studio coupled with some in-studio tutorials and discussion done together as a group. These tutorials are simply a means to an end and will be done as a prerequisite for performing more explicit tasks set out during studio.

ARCH 4_584_DigitalParametricStudies_Fall2013

September 30, 2013
by donofrio@uoregon.edu
0 comments

Physical | Parametric Studies

Source: John Chilton – Heinz Isler’s Workshop & Studio

This first assignment is a study in exploring physical form-finding techniques of membrane-stress shell structures. This will be achieved through hands-on material form finding studies.  Students will work in groups of two (2) to develop an apparatus for generating a series of physical rigid surface models similar to the processes as outlined in the reading by Bechthold and Chilton regarding physical from-finding techniques.  Each team’s apparatus must allow for variability of support conditions and configurations. The apparatus should be approximately 24” square capable of generating multiple models.
After making the apparatus each team should develop a series of  six (6) models, which achieve different spatial characteristics. In addition to creating each of the models you are to develop a series of analytical diagrams for each of the models which shows how it was developed and how achieves its particular spatial characteristics.
Teams should also be documenting, through both photograph and diagram generally how the apparatus functions as a parametic design tool. You should think of these as instructions.

ARCH 4_584_PhysicalParametricStudies_Fall2013

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