Parametric Design Techniques Research Articles

Topological Interlocking Assembly: Introduction to Computational Architecture

Topological interlocking assembly (TIA) and computational architecture treat form as an emergent property of a material system, where the final shape results from the interplay of geometries and geometric interdependencies influenced by contextual constraints (material, structure, and fabrication). This paper posits that TIA is an ideal pedagogical tool for introducing students to computational architecture, and its theoretical foundations and design principles. Specifically, defining TIA as a material system provides a robust educational approach for engaging students with computation; fostering design processes through bottom-up, hands-on investigations; expressing design intents as procedural logic; understanding generative geometric rules; and exploring the flexibility of parametric variations. The methodology is detailed and illustrated through a design workshop and study unit from the Bachelor’s and Master’s programs at the Faculty for the Built Environment, University of Malta. Four case studies of TIA—of tetrahedra, cones, octahedra, and osteomorphic blocks—demonstrate how these exercises introduce students to computational thinking, parametric design, and fabrication techniques. This paper discusses the advantages and limitations of this pedagogical methodology, concluding that integrating computational architecture in education shifts students’ design processes to investigation and innovation-based approaches, enabling them to address contemporary design challenges through context-driven solutions.

Parametric design of 3D printed ribbed slab system based on nature-inspired patterns

The interest in pattern geometry and its application to architecture may be seen throughout history. While some authors were fascinated by pattern aesthetics, others were focused on their effectiveness and underlying principles of pattern formation. In continuing with the work of the second group of authors, this paper reviews opportunities for efficient ways of implementing patterns in the design of architectural elements, supported by recent developments in parametric design and digital fabrication techniques. This paper aims to analyze pattern configurations found in nature in order to determine the underlying generation principles and the potential of their application for 3D printed slab systems. Using case study methodology, selected patterns will be applied in developing a generative parametric design system, which will further be tested in creating and (small-scale) fabricating ribbed slab elements. The result of the research is the generalization of a design approach based on principles of natural pattern formation to produce sustainable design solutions that rely on the transposition of the inherent efficiency of natural systems, such as low energy or material consumption.

Deep learning-enabled design for tailored mechanical properties of SLM-manufactured metallic lattice structures

The lattice structures obtained by combining repetitive light cellular forms provide superior high strength to weight capabilities compared to monolithic solid bodies. These properties of lattice structures can be further enhanced by improving the design and manufacturing process. However, the process of creating aluminum alloy lattice structures with tailored mechanical properties is still challenging due to the wide range of possible designs and their complex structure-property relationships. This paper proposes a new methodology that uses the deep learning-based 3D Generative Adversarial Network (3DGAN) model to solve this complex engineering problem. Unlike previous studies on deep learning-based lattice design, the dataset obtained through parametric design and Simulated Annealing techniques enables GAN to create new 3D lattice structures with improved mechanical strength properties. The designs generated with the GAN algorithm were produced using Selective Laser Melting Additive Manufacturing (SLM-AM) technology. The mechanical properties of SLM-fabricated (SLMed) AlSi10Mg unit cell samples were examined by a series of compression and impact tests. The results reveal that the lattice configurations generated using the generative model exhibit improved mechanical properties (e.g., a remarkable increase in normalized energy absorption and extension capacities of up to 57% and 26%, respectively). This study shows that designs generated with the 3DGAN model in lattice structures improve the design space by improving their mechanical properties. Moreover, the successful integration of deep learning and SLM-AM opens up new possibilities for creating custom parts with improved strength-to-weight ratios, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical performance.

Microstructure Formations Resulting from Nanosecond and Picosecond Laser Irradiation of a Ti-Based Alloy under Controlled Atmospheric Conditions and Optimization of the Irradiation Process.

This paper presents a study and comparison of surface effects induced by picosecond and nanosecond laser modification of a Ti6Al4V alloy surface under different ambient conditions: air and argon- and nitrogen-rich atmospheres. Detailed surface characterization was performed for all experimental conditions. Damage threshold fluences for picosecond and nanosecond laser irradiation in all three ambient conditions were determined. The observed surface features were a resolidified pool of molten material, craters, hydrodynamic effects and parallel periodic surface structures. Laser-induced periodic surface structures are formed by multi-mode-beam nanosecond laser action and picosecond laser action. Crown-like structures at crater rims are specific features for picosecond Nd:YAG laser action in argon-rich ambient conditions. Elemental analysis of the surfaces indicated nitride compound formation only in the nitrogen-rich ambient conditions. The constituents of the formed plasma were also investigated. Exploring the impact of process control parameters on output responses has been undertaken within the context of laser modification under different environmental conditions. Parametric optimization of the nanosecond laser modification was carried out by implementing an advanced method based on Taguchi's parametric design and multivariate statistical techniques, and optimal settings are proposed for each atmosphere.

Development of a parametric optimization concept for the sun control of the outdoor spaces: the case study of 5A business park, Cairo, Egypt

PurposeComfortable outdoor workspaces are important for employees in business parks and urban areas. Prioritizing a pleasant thermal environment is essential for employee productivity, as well as the improvement of outdoor spaces between office buildings to enhance social activities and quality of outdoor workplaces in a hot arid climate has been subjected to very little studies Thus, this study focuses on business parks (BPs) landscape elements. The objective of this study is to enhance the user's thermal comfort in the work environment, especially in the outdoors attached to the administrative and office buildings such as the BPs.Design/methodology/approachThis research follows Four-phases methodology. Phase 1 is the investigation of the literature review including the Concept and consideration of BP urban planning, Achieving outdoor thermal comfort (OTC) and shading elements analysis. Phase 2 is the case study initial analysis targeting for prioritizing zones for shading involves three main methods: social assessment, geometrical assessment and environmental assessment. Phase 3 entails selecting shading elements that are suitable for the zones requiring shading parametrize the selected shading elements. Phase 4 focuses on the optimization of OTC through shading arrangements for the prioritized zones.FindingsShading design is a multidimensional process that requires consideration of various factors, including social aspects, environmental impact and structural integrity. Shading elements in urban areas play a crucial role in mitigating heat stress by effectively shielding surfaces from solar radiation. The integration of parametric design and computational optimization techniques enhances the shading design process by generating a wide range of alternative solutions.Research limitations/implicationsWhile conducting this research, it is important to acknowledge certain limitations that may affect the generalizability and scope of the findings. One significant limitation lies in the use of the shade audit method as a tool to prioritize zones for shading. Although the shade audit approach offers practical benefits for designers compared to using questionnaires, it may have its own inherent biases or may not capture the full complexity of human preferences and needs.Originality/valueFew studies have focused on optimizing the type and location of devices that shade outdoor spaces. As a result, there is no consensus on the workflow that should regulate the design of outdoor shading installations in terms of microclimate and human thermal comfort, therefore testing parametric shading scenarios for open spaces between office buildings to increase the benefit of the outer environment is very important. The study synthesizes OTC strategies by filling the research gap through the implementation of a proper workflow that utilizes parametric thermal comfort.

Ultra-Wide Range, High Sensitivity Piezoresistive Sensor Based on Triple Periodic Minimum Surface Construction.

Flexible piezoresistive sensors with biological structures are widely exploited for high sensitivity and detection. However, the conventional bionic structure pressure sensors usually suffer from irreconcilable conflicts between high sensitivity and wide detection response range. Herein, a triple periodic minimum surface (TPMS) structure sensor is proposed based on parametric structural design and 3D printing techniques. Upon tailoring of the dedicated structural parameters, the resulting sensors exhibit superior compression durability, high sensitivity, and ultra-high detection range, that enabling it meets the needs of various scenes. As a model system, TPMS structure sensor with 40.5% porosity exhibits an ultra-high sensitivity (132 kPa-1 in 0-5.7 MPa), wide detection strain range (0-31.2%), high repeatability and durability (1000 cycles in 4.41 MPa, 10000 s in 1.32 MPa), and low detection limit (1% in 80 kPa). The stress/strain distributions have been identified using finite element analysis. Toward practical applications, the TPMS structural sensors can be applied to detect human activity and health monitoring (i.e., voice recognition, finger pressure, sitting, standing, walking, and falling down behaviors). The synergistic effects of MWCNTs and MXene conductive network also ensure the composite further being utilized for electromagnetic interference shielding applications.

DEVELOPING A DESIGN FRAMEWORK FOR THE MASS CUSTOMISATION OF HOUSING IN SAUDI ARABIA - A CRITICAL REVIEW

This paper explores the suitability of mass customisation (MC) technologies and techniques in order to provide affordable housing solutions for Saudi Arabia. In particular, the paper analyses ten articles filtered through 1.165 publications searched by using the keywords ‘mass customisation housing or off-site construction’ in the databases Scopus, CumlnCAD, ScienceDirect, and Engineer village and categorised them based on their suitability for the Saudi Arabian context. Our findings include a comparative analysis chart evaluating workflows, tools and technologies on their suitability for the MC design and an MC workflow proposal for including parametric design and digital fabrication tools and techniques.

Optimization of jig boring process parameter by Taguchi approach

In present experimental work statistical process control is used to eliminate quality problems such as out of circularity of parts during jig boring operation. Taguchi parameter design technique deal with response from variable result from boring in Mild steel workpiece to estimating the optimum cutting conditions for minimum roundness error. To measure and get quick and accurate results the roundness error Coordinate Measuring Machine with latest software capabilities has been utilized. the characteristics relating to the cutting process, including feed rate, cutting speed, depth of cut, and tool material have been chosen as factors affecting roundness errors. The percentage contribution of significant components was assessed using ANOVA.

Reverse-adjustment algorithm of tooth surface precision control design for spiral bevel gears

As aerospace requirements for low noise and high strength spiral bevel gear transmission continue to increase, tooth surface precise control is becoming increasingly important in design and manufacture. The previous design depended significantly on ease off the tooth surface and using the tooth surface optimization approach. It’s a parameter design technique that goes from the design tooth surface to the target tooth surface without accounting for the reaction of the tooth surface to machine tool machining errors. This study proposes a new algorithm for reverse adjustment of tooth face accuracy control. A mathematical model of the tooth face is initially built using the local synthesis method to replicate the genuine machining process. Second, the machine setup settings are chosen as multi-objective optimization parameters, and the reverse adjustment model is constructed to investigate the machine’s machining error on the tooth surface, as well as the reverse adjustment model’s effects on contact and robustness characteristics. Finally, numerical calculations and comparisons with the findings of existing design approaches are used to verify the validity and effectiveness of the reverse adjustment algorithm in the design of tooth surface accuracy control of curved bevel gears.

Architectural and Landscape Garden Planning Integrated with Artificial Intelligence Parametric Analysis

Parametric design, driven by digital technology, has sparked extensive research and debate in the domains of architecture and urban planning, offering a new approach to issue solving. Architecture and landscape architecture, like architecture and urban planning, are disciplines that are part of the artificial environment. Architectural landscape design has begun to be influenced by parametric design. This study presents a more technical parametric design technique of architectural landscape design that involves artificial intelligence parametric analysis and proposes an architectural landscape planning and design method that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) parametric analysis. This is a new discipline of concurrent design that complements and expands architectural landscape design methodologies and is based on artificial intelligence methods. This study integrates artificial intelligence parametric design theory and methodology into architectural landscape design and presents a parametric method appropriate for landscape architecture design based on architectural landscape architecture characteristics.

Time‐dependent Luenberger‐type interval observer design for uncertain time‐varying systems

AbstractThis article investigates the state interval observation problem for a class of continuous and discrete‐time linear time‐varying (LTV) systems with bounded uncertainties separately. First, by utilizing both the LTV transformation and the solutions to a type of time‐varying fully‐actuated Sylvester equations, a time‐dependent standard interval observer (IO) is established in a parametric form with some design degrees of freedom. Second, a new time‐dependent structure of Luenberger‐type IOs is proposed to relax the limitation of the LTV transformation‐based design method. Further, its sufficient existence conditions are given in virtue of positive system theory. Meanwhile, a parametric design technique of such an IO for uncertain LTV systems is also raised under rank conditions. Third, the obtained results are extended to the discrete‐time systems. Finally, the correctness and benefits of the proposed methods are verified using some numerical examples.

Analysis of the influence of inner morphology on blood flow in 3D-printed bone scaffolds

In recent years, 3D printed scaffolds have been proposed as promising alternative to the conventional cell culture techniques. Scaffolds, indeed, allow the development of a higher number of cellular connections along the three dimensions favoring the cell regeneration, which make them particularly suitable in case of implants for deteriorate bones in old age patients. Besides the characteristics of biocompatibility and biodegradability fundamental for the integration of the scaffolds with the human body, the inner morphology, the permeability as well as the porosity are parameters of paramount relevance in the design of 3D-printed scaffolds influencing the flow of the blood through the cells and, thus, their metabolic functions. In the present work the influence of the internal geometry of 3D-printed scaffolds on the blood flow was investigated. Five cylindrical scaffolds having different internal geometry and different porosity were fabricated using parametric design technique. Numerical analysis of the blood flow within the designed structures was conducted by using CFD tool.

Defining developable ship surfaces considering material properties

This paper presents a practical method to define a quasi-developable surface that leans on two boundary curves or directrices. As a main difference with the rest of literature that works with quasi-developable surfaces assuming the fact that most of practical materials allow for a little bit of stretching, this paper presents how to quantify this developability in terms of a geometrical factor, the limit warp angle.The limit warp angle has been calculated numerically for steel and aluminum, applying a bending moment to plates of different geometries until a given percentage of the material's yield stress is surpassed. It has been demonstrated that developability depends on the material properties, thickness and aspect ratio of the plates that will be used to construct the real surface. The presented approach considers both physics and geometry and links them together.By considering the limit warp angle, a quasi-developable surface can be obtained without altering the directrices shape, unless the directrix curves present a very different shape between each other. This is very useful in engineering applications that produce designs based on curves and ease the use of parametric design techniques into the object definition. The constrained or parametric definition of ship hulls is beneficial during the initial phases of the ship design because it speeds up the creation process, provides more clarity about the influence of various parameters, and allows for the development of a range of concept hull surfaces.All the designs and calculations in this paper have been developed with a single, affordable and non specialized CAD software, indicating the capabilities of CAD products currently available for any designer.

Vibration suppression investigation and parametric design of tri-axle straight heavy truck with pitch-resistant hydraulically interconnected suspension

The vibration suppression of the proposed pitch-resistant hydraulically interconnected suspension system for the tri-axle straight truck is investigated, and the vibration isolation performances are parametrically designed to achieve smaller body vibration and tire dynamic load using increased pitch stiffness and optimized pressure loss coefficient. For the hydraulic subsystem, the transfer impedance matrix method is applied to derive the impedance matrix. These hydraulic forces are incorporated into the motion equations of mechanical subsystem as external forces according to relationships between boundary flow and mechanical state vectors. In terms of the additional mode stiffness/damping and suspension performance requirements, the cylinder surface area, accumulator pressure, and damper valve’s pressure loss coefficient are comprehensively tuned with parametric design technique and modal analysis method. It is found the isolation capacity is heavily dependent on installation scheme and fluid physical parameters. Especially, the surface area can be designed for the oppositional installation to separately raise pitch stiffness without increasing bounce stiffness. The pressure loss coefficients are tuned with design of experiment approach and evaluated using all conflict indexes with normalized dimensionless evaluation factors. The obtained numerical results indicate that the proposed pitch-resistant hydraulically interconnected suspension system can significantly inhibit both the body and tire vibrations with decreased suspension deformation, and the tire dynamic load distribution among wheel stations is also improved.

The revival of the historic Islamic geometric pattern on the gate of The Al-Sharabeya School in Wasit City using the Grasshopper program

There is a lack of knowledge that is required for using computer programs (parametric computing) to generate and derive new Islamic geometric patterns locally. This study focuses on the application of parametric modeling using the Rhinoceros 6 Grasshopper program on an Islamic geometric historical pattern, which decorated the gate of the School in Wasit, where the search imposes a spatial approach. This program is applied with the help of the algorithmic parameters used by the parametric design technique to generate and derive new Islamic geometric patterns from an extinct reference pattern used in contemporary urbanism. The goal is to enhance and impart an attribute of cultural inclusion and architectural originality to the local architecture of cities. The results demonstrate that the program was able to generate a new Islamic geometric pattern that did not previously exist, by finding the associative relationships and a hidden network between the tessellations of the Islamic geometric pattern, through algorithmic relationships, which was not visible. Therefore, the Rhinoceros 6 Grasshopper program can be used by architects and urbanites to devise distinctive design alternatives based on historical patterns and heritage models that can be applied in the future design of urban areas and cities that belong to the Islamic civilization.

The revival of the historic Islamic geometric pattern on the gate of The Al-Sharabeya School in Wasit City using the Grasshopper program

There is a lack of knowledge that is required for using computer programs (parametric computing) to generate and derive new Islamic geometric patterns locally. This study focuses on the application of parametric modeling using the Rhinoceros 6 Grasshopper program on an Islamic geometric historical pattern, which decorated the gate of the School in Wasit, where the search imposes a spatial approach. This program is applied with the help of the algorithmic parameters used by the parametric design technique to generate and derive new Islamic geometric patterns from an extinct reference pattern used in contemporary urbanism. The goal is to enhance and impart an attribute of cultural inclusion and architectural originality to the local architecture of cities. The results demonstrate that the program was able to generate a new Islamic geometric pattern that did not previously exist, by finding the associative relationships and a hidden network between the tessellations of the Islamic geometric pattern, through algorithmic relationships, which was not visible. Therefore, the Rhinoceros 6 Grasshopper program can be used by architects and urbanites to devise distinctive design alternatives based on historical patterns and heritage models that can be applied in the future design of urban areas and cities that belong to the Islamic civilization.

Hybrid multi-objective robust design optimization of a truck cab considering fatigue life

Fatigue performance optimization without considering uncertainties of design variables can be problematic or even dangerous in real life. In this paper, a hybrid multi-objective robust design optimization methodology is proposed to make a proper tradeoff between the lightweight and fatigue durability for the design of a truck cab. However, the uncertainties, in reality, could lead to the optimized design unstable or even useless; this situation can be more serious in non-deterministic optimization. The Taguchi robust parametric design technique is adopted to refine the intervals of design variables for the subsequent optimization based on the validated simulation model against fatigue tests. Three types of dual surrogate models, namely the dual polynomial response surface, dual Kriging, and dual radial basis function methods are compared, and the dual Kriging is selected to model the mean and standard deviation of the mass and fatigue life for its high accuracy. The multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is utilized to perform robust design. The Pareto fronts with different weight factors are analyzed to provide some insightful information on optimum designs. The robust optimization results demonstrate that the optimized design improves the fatigue life and reduces the mass of the truck cab significantly and becomes less sensitive to uncertainty. Different optimums can be obtained based on three different normalization techniques (Linear, vector, and LMM) and three MCDM methods (TOPSIS, WPM, and WSM) from the same Pareto front. The comparison analysis emphasizes the importance of normalization and MCDM method selection in the optimal design selection process.

Parametric Design Techniques Apply to Creative Hollow out Product Design with 3d Voronoi Patterns

The creation of hollow out art includes a variety of materials, techniques and categories, its content mostly emphasizes the ancient philosophy performance of the alternation of virtual and real, and Yin-Yang depends on the essence of Chinese culture deduction. If this feature is applied to product design, in addition to emphasizing functional orientation, this traditional arts integration with the new media, will give users a different visual inspire. This thesis is mainly in view of the importance of hollow out art in Chinese cultural heritage, and the 3D hollow out production craft has gradually lost. Therefore, the Delaunay triangle is constructed based on the Convex Hull interpolation algorithm, and the Voronoi Diagram feature is constructed based on the Divide and Conquer algorithm. And with Rhino modeling software as the main body, combined with the application of the parametric plug-in design program (GH), the 3D models of the parametric creative hollow pen holder and the parametric creative hollow lampshade were respectively completed. The traditional craftsmanship is integrated into the modern manufacturing process with innovative techniques, and the Chinese cultural spirit and beauty of nature are successfully connected.

Design in 3D: a computational fashion design protocol

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to create a corset—understructure as well as fabric covering—using only computational, 3D approaches to fashion design. The process incorporated 3D body scan data, parametric methods for the 3D-printed design, and algorithmic methods for the automated, custom-fit fabric pattern.Design/methodology/approachThe methods or protocol-based framework that nucleated this design project (see Figure 1) enabled more concentrated research into the iterative step-by-step procedure and the computational techniques used herein.FindingsThe 3D computational methods in this study demonstrated a new way of rendering the body-to-pattern relationship through the use of multiple software platforms. Using body scan data and computer coding, the computational construction methods in this study showed a pliant and sustainable method of clothing design where designers were able to manipulate the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the points on the scan surface.Research limitations/implicationsA study of algorithmic methods is inherently a study of limitation. The iterative process of design was defined and refined through the particularity of an algorithm, which required thoughtful manipulation to inform the outcome of this research.Practical implicationsThis study sought to illustrate the use and limitations of algorithm-driven computer programming to advance creative design practices.Social implicationsAs body scan data and biometric information become increasingly common components of computational fashion design practices, the need for more research on the use of these techniques is pressing. Moreover, computational techniques serve as a catalyst for discussions about the use of biometric information in design and data modeling.Originality/valueThe process of designing in 3D allowed for the dynamic capability to manipulate proportion and form using parametric design techniques.

Multi‐stage coordinated dynamic VAR source placement for voltage stability enhancement of wind‐energy power system

Increased wind power penetration and induction loads have deteriorated the voltage stability performance of the power system. This study proposes a multi-stage multi-objective dynamic VAR source placement method for wind energy power system, where three sub-objectives are optimised simultaneously: (i) investment cost and operational control cost; (ii) steady-state voltage stability index; (iii) short-term voltage stability index. This method coordinates the dynamic VAR allocation decisions with preventive and corrective stability controls, including wind power curtailment, modification of the line drop compensation, and load shedding, to improve both steady-state and short-term voltage stability of the system. A robust parameter design technique called Taguchi's Orthogonal Array Testing is used to model the wind power uncertainty. Pareto optimal solutions are obtained for flexible decision-making. The computation burden is mitigated by candidate buses selection and critical contingency identification. The proposed model is demonstrated on the New England 39-bus test system using PSS®E. Compared with conventional approaches, it can achieve higher voltage stability level with less overall cost and moderate wind power curtailment, and at the same time avoid the conservativeness of planning decisions.