Structural Shape Generation 2016/2017

Recent advances in computational methods, materials and manufacturing processes have transformed the design and construction of structural surfaces. This course provides an in-depth introduction to the basics of surface structures, and gives techniques and knowledge to design folded plates, shells and tensile membranes in a vast range of materials.

The course looks at the most inventive structures and technologies, especially demonstrating their use of form finding techniques in creating successful complex curved surfaces.

The course is structured in 4 parts.

The first part introduces the topic of structural surfaces, tracing the ancient relationship between innovative design and construction technology and the evolution of surface structures.

The second part familiarizes the student with tensile membranes, covering the different types of membrane systems as well as related physical and numerical form finding methods, materials and construction techniques.

The third part focuses on rigid surfaces.

The fourth part provides a deeper understanding of numerical form finding techniques.

There are case studies, physical as well as computational lab sessions throughout the course demonstrating the design of innovative surface structures and its approaches.