This project investigates computational form-finding methods for grid shell structures. It develops two standalone applications. One explores the Force Density Method (FDM) with a regular grid structure, the second, Dynamic Form-Finding (DFM) with Particle-Spring Systems. Both applications provide a custom interactive user-interface for designers. The applications are written in Java using the Processing API for graphics, geometry and GUI.

The FDM method is a non-dynamic method of computing pre-stressed structures in equilibrium. The GUI of this application, however, provides instant real-time feedback as the user adjusts the load vector(s). Conversely, the second application on the DFM method is a dynamic method of computing structures in equilibrium.

The following publication describes the FDM method I use here. My implementation solves solves a grid made with 36 nodes, 25 faces, and from its Euler characteristic, 60 edges.

K. Linkwitz. (2014). “Force Density Method: Design of a Timber shell.” Ch.6 in S. Adriaenssens, P. Block, D. Veenendaal, & C. Williams. Shell Structures for Architecture: Form Finding and Optimization.

For a description of how changes in network topology lead to diverse designs for shell structures, see A. Killian. (2014). “Steering of Form.” Ibid.

I developed this application in Spring 2015 during the first offering of 4.s48 Computational Structural Design and Optimization. The class is taught by Prof. Caitlin Mueller at the MIT Department of Architecture.

For implementation details, please read the PDF writeup available on the Github repository of this project. Particle-spring systems also appears outside of design or architecture. For example, they appear in the simulation of the motion of fabrics in animation movies.

See also my portfolio item on my implementation of the design space of Mitchell trusses in their basic symmetric form.