Interactive structural design of hyperbolic grid shells

Abstract

Local and global design processes are equally time-phased and consider multiple goals, such as architecture, engineering and manufacturing. This paper presents a global modelling concept for hyperbolic grid shells with parametric methodologies to demonstrate alternatives to conventional structural designs composed of iterative workflows. The modelling concept provides a smooth and interactive design process for the optimisation and analysis of hyperbolic shapes. Moreover, modern timber architecture is increasingly moving towards double-curved forms, for which current timber joining methods do not offer fully adequate solutions. The design and manufacturing of multi-axial joints in spatial structures, such as space frameworks or grid shells, can greatly influence the appearance when more than two members are joined in and out of plane. In this paper, innovative grouted round timber connections have been adapted for the design of hyperbolic structures with the advantage of no requirement for concave modification of the cross-sections.