dissertation on parametric forms

INTRODUCTION

PARAMETRIC DESIGN: NEW FORMS THAT FUNCTION BETTER Page 1

INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The advent of the industrial revolution, mass production and large-scale manufacturing industries during the

last two centuries has had a revolutionary effect on architecture. The fathers of modern architecture, such as

Le Corbusier, Mies van der rohe and Walter Gropius were inspired by the automobile factories and methods

of the era; this gave birth to the computer as a design tool.

Parametric design is a method of intelligently designing architectural objects based on relationships and

rules using the computer. These are defined in parametric software and are easily manipulated to quickly

generate multiple iterations of the design in 3d. The use of this tool has allowed for more complex free form,

shapes as well as multiple reactive yet repeating elements to be created.

Parametric design has been pioneered by architects such as Frank o. Gehry who begun to exploit digital

technology originally developed for the automotive and airplane industry for architecture. Offering new

ways of controlling form, parametric design allows architecture to react to its context, the environment and

rules and regulations, enabling a completely digital workflow from design to manufacturing.

With the use of parametric software, architects are able to study relationships and incorporate basic aspects

of the actual construction including material, manufacturing technologies and structural properties into the

design process. It has allowed for architectural design to become an iterative, generative and reactive

pr

Thompson book on growth and form he argues, "an organism is so complex a thing, and growth so complex

a phenomenon, that for growth to be so uniform and constant in all the parts as to keep the whole shape

unchanged would indeed be an unlikely and an unusual circumstance. Rates vary, proportions change, and

the whole configuration alters accordingly."

Such tools transform complex issues into rational, simple decisions. But this trend toward complexity leads

to new design problems requires a deeper understanding of geometry, mathematics and computer software;

the architect mustn't forget that he must be a master of and control the tool, rather than the other way around.

PARAMETRICS IN ARCHITECTURE:

Loosely defined, parametric in architecture (parametricism) implies the design of buildings not as static

objects, but in terms of a series of relationships, controlled by a set of inputs, or parameters. By

programming a certain amount of intelligence into the way geometry is generated in the computer, the

designer shifts his role from the design of a single object to the design of a system in which many solutions

are possible and which is controlled by a defined set of values. This holds many practical benefits for

architecture, as an entire design can be regenerated automatically if any design parameter is changed. The

wide-scale adoption of this technique has also had a range of effects on the theory of architecture and a

reconceptualization in how many architects view the design of buildings and the practice of architecture.

INTRODUCTION



1.2 AIM AND OBJECTIVE

AIM

Are complex buildings made through parametric design practically possible?

OBJECTIVE

To understand parameters and parametric approach to design.

To find techniques and material to which the conceptual form will executed in reality.

To investigate parametric techniques helpful to increase the performance of the building.

To find the whether or not parametric design has a role in future architecture.

How parametric design have been used in exterior and interior facades.

1.3 SCOPE AND LIMITATION

SCOPE

This dissertation contains projects relating to current and future possibilities of the digital architectural

visualization process. Parametric design helps to create complex free form buildings.

Case studies conduct on building based on parametric designs

Shanghai Tower

-out

ceremony today, more than four years after the start of construction in 2008.

Riverside museum

The Riverside Museum building was designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and engineers Buro Happold..The

internal exhibitions and displays were designed by Event Communications. Replacing facilities at the city's

Kelvin Hall, the new purpose-built museum is the first to be opened in the city since the St Mungo Museum of

Religious Life and Art in 1993 and is expected to attract up to 1 million visitors a year.

LIMITATION

As this dissertation is based on emerging field, case studies will be virtual due to absence of projects

in the country.

This dissertation will focus on parametric elements not its programming.

This dissertation will focus on implementation of building techniques.

INTRODUCTION



1.4 METHODOLOGY

The following steps will be followed in the study of parametric design:

UNDERSTANDING THE NEED FOR SMATER

DESIGNING TOOL

UNDERSTANDING PARAMETRIC DESIGN

ELEMENTS

IMPLEMENTATION OF

PARAMETRIC DESIGNS

CONDUCT CASE STUDIES

METHODOLIGIES OF PARAMERTIC DESIGN

CONCLUSION

INTRODUCTION


CHANGING THE FACE OF ARCHITECTURE CHAPTER 2

INTRODUCTION

Architecture is not limited to gothic churches and ornate baroque constructions. Parametric design illustrates

how the 20th

century was not a rest period for architecture. Since the inception of design software on

evolving field of architecture are using parametric design.

Figure 1: Parametric design

The most important feature of parametric design, as you can tell from its name, is to do with its application

of parameters. The seminal conception of parametric design actually has nothing at all to do with parametric

processes. Internationally the industrial boom was affecting the architectural scene, modules were the vogue.

adaptable, monotonous and were considered a fast, budget conscious way of housing people. In response to

this a more fluid form evolved that deviated from the square rigidity of modular design. Antoni Gaudi may

be an early precursor to this innovation as he moved architecture towards organic forms, even considering

how natural light would enter the building. However Gaudi did not create parametric buildings, only after

the introduction of computer aided design (cad) would such design be possible.

INTRODUCTION



Cad programs made it possible to design without draftsmen, and drafts were infinitely adaptable. Computers

allowed designers to calculate areas and spaces in a way that would be otherwise impossible to calculate.

Buildings no longer needed to be boxes; they could be created to fit spaces, to respond to the local

environment and to natural elements. In collaboration with computer numerical control machines (CNCS),

which custom cuts unique pieces for construction one by one, architecture was and has been revolutionised

Cutting with the CNC makes economical use of available resources and reduces the amount of waste

created. The CNC cutter is precise and ranges from small iron car parts to huge curved wooden ceiling

beams. Architects typically use the Rhinoceros design program, along with the Grasshopper plug-in to

design for the CNC. This software is designed to calculate intelligently how an architectural construction

might be built whilst retaining maximum efficiency. Parameters that are determined by the architect or

designer ultimately determine the possible forms of the end design

The first bureau to implement this system did so without all of this knowledge, they were Frank O. Gehry &

Partners. After winning the Guggenheim Museum commission in Bilbao with their curvy model, they started

looking for ways of making the design a reality. Realising that existing architectural design programs would

not suffice, they turned to software (CATIA) intended for the airplane and automotive industry. This

unusual methodology was an unprecedented success; the building was finished before the settled deadline

and with less money spent than expected.

Figure 2: The Guggenheim Museum

INTRODUCTION



required heavy duty structures in order to sustain their grand facades. Later this trend would evolve and the

Today,

architects are challenged to innovate ways of making the best use of space and location. Better control of the

interior climate of the space is preferable, less air-conditioning equipment will be needed and less energy

will be consumed.

Parametric design can be used for making sure that the space within a building is being used at its

maximum capacity. The new category of buildings that have their structure working as the facade

include

The purpose of building using parametric design is to warrant sustainability. The better it is designed for

use, the longer it ought to be inhabited and preserved. Similarly, buildings consume energy and create

pollution during their life cycle as well as during their construction. If this is reduced and is manageable then

it will be more valuable to the people who inhabit and use it.

The Introduction of computer-aided design and manufacturing tools, together with computational design

approaches such as parametric design, associative geometry, algorithmic procedures and scripting, imposed

not only a change from analog to the digital medium, but also a change in the definition of the architectural

design process.

Importance of Technology

New technologies not only provide greater speed, size and reliability at lower cost, but more importantly

these dictate the kinds of structures that can be considered and thus come to shape our whole view of what a

INTRODUCTION



2.1 COMPUTING IN ARCHITECTURE

traditional ways of working with tracing paper

and pencil. As hardware becomes faster and memory less expensive, more sophisticated fundamental

software technologies will be adopted. This shift in the basis of CAD will provide powerful capabilities and

offer new ways to think about designing.

Fifteen or twenty years ago, when Computer assisted design (CAD) vendors set out to make computers

useful for basis drafting tasks. Simple CAD was a means to draft architectural plans more rapidly, and so

concentrated on two dimensional and on the graphical aspects of plan production i.e. line thickness / weight;

hatching patterns ; correct symbols for electrical / mechanical features, etc. Where some lines represented

walls and others represented windows, doors, stairs, space boundaries, etc.

With the use of computers and computational design tools the architectural design practice have gone

beyond drafting and visualising, defining a departure from the conventional architectural design and

representation processes. Designers have introduced new design strategies that would respond to these

emerging changes and open up new grounds for the exploration of transformations. Hence, the architectural

design and representation processes have been redefined in order to take full advantage of the potentials

offered through computational design strategies and tools, where the aim was to define the conceptual and

perceptual paradigm shifts subsequent to these changes.

2.2 CURRENT SCENARIO- CONVENTIONAL DESIGN

There is always a continues tension in every project between design exploration and process efficiency. The

design phase is virtually endless. The designer can stop designing when he feels that the time invested in the

process is not equal to the value added to the artifact. In the meantime, with tight working schedules and

tense project delivery dates, not all design exploration are thoroughly studied, assessed and evaluated, and

thus better performing designs are likely left undiscovered.

INTRODUCTION



A recently conducted study by Gane and Haymaker (2007), made a benchmarking survey of existing

conceptual high-rise design practice to determine the performance of leading design teams. It was found that

a multidisciplinary team averaging 12 people can normally produce only 3 design options during a design

process that lasts 5 weeks. It was also found that most of this time is spent by architects on generating and

presenting a small number of design options. Little time is dedicated to establishing and understanding

project goals and running multidisciplinary analysis. These analyses are inconsistent and primarily governed

by architectural rather than multidisciplinary criteria.

From this discussion, we can point out a real need for an approach to design that can explore the

undiscovered solutions. In order to understand the potential change in the organization and composition of

the design process, we need to develop an in-depth understanding of the meaning of parametric design,

parametric thinking and the terms associated with their use in contemporary architecture.

The current market economy requires project teams to design quickly, efficiently and cheaply; however,

research shows that successful design is largely a function of clear definition of end-user requirements and

the generation of multidisciplinary analyses of a large quantity of options. (Karle, 2011).

2.3 NEED FOR SMARTER DRAFTING TOOLS

Today, the mechanics of the drafting task have largely been automated and accelerated through the use of

computer-aided drawing systems (CAD). Computer-aided design is the use of computer software to create

drawings. Today the vast majority of technical drawings of all kinds are made using CAD. Instead of

drawing lines on paper, the computer records equivalent information electronically. There are many

advantages to this system: repetition is reduced because complex elements can be copied, duplicated and

stored for re-use. Errors can be deleted, and the speed of draughting allows many permutations to be tried

before the design is finalised. On the other hand, CAD drawing encourages a proliferation of detail and

increased expectations of accuracy, aspects which reduce the efficiency originally expected from the move

to computerisation.

There are two types of computer-aided design systems used for the production of technical drawings" two

dimensions ("2D") and three dimensions ("3D").

INTRODUCTION



2D CAD systems such as AutoCAD or Micro Station replace the paper drawing discipline. The lines,

circles, arcs and curves are created within the software. It is down to the technical drawing skill of the user

to produce the drawing. There is still much scope for error in the drawing when producing first and third

angle orthographic projections, auxiliary projections and cross sections. A 2D CAD system is merely an

electronic drawing board. Its greatest strength over direct to paper technical drawing is in the making of

revisions. Whereas in a conventional hand drawn technical drawing, if a mistake is found, or a modification

the is required, a new drawing must be made from scratch. The 2D CAD system allows a copy of the

original to be modified, saving considerable time.

3D CAD systems such as Autodesk Inventor or Solid Works first produce the geometry of the part; the

technical drawing comes from user defined views of the part. Any orthographic, projected and section views

are created by the software. There is no scope for error in the production of these views. The main scope for

error comes in setting the parameter of first or third angle projection, and displaying the relevant symbol on

the technical drawing. 3D CAD allows individual parts to be assembled together to represent the final

product.

Figure 3: 2d drawing and 3d drawing

2D CAD 3D CAD
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SolidWorks

INTRODUCTION



2.4 CONVENTIONAL VS PARAMETRIC DESIGN TOOL

In traditional CAD modelling every single change in any portion of geometry needs to be edited or

altered manually by a designer while in parametric modelling, geometry is capable to respond

modifications and changes automatically. Consequently, geometry can be interactively adjusted

depending on a set of predefined rules and relations.

Furthermore, in conventional CAD modelling each instance of a building design such as window or

wall needs to be designed individually, conversely as parametric modelling as demonstrates

designer first defines an element class or family which defines mixture of fixed and parametric

geometry, a set of relations and rules to control the parameters by which element instances can be

generated and objects within an element family can be differ according to its contextual conditions.

In addition to these main advantages, parametric design tools enables architects to approach

generative forms. In other words, in parametric design, it is the elements of a particular design that

are clarified, not its shape. Hence , different generative forms can be created by modifying some

specific values to the parameters. We have abilities to experience all possibilities of the imaginations.

Unlike traditional CAD software which are merely based on geometric objects that every single

change needs to modify all appropriate components in order to fix the design, parametric design tools

can make associations between geometrics and operations as well as link them together and with

others via explicit or implicit stated relationships.

-you just add parts, relating them to each

other by coping, moving and pasting etc. Making changes to a model can be difficult. Even changing one

dimension can require adjusting many other parts and all of this rework is manual. So all these limitations

lead the designers to make a system which more flexible and help to explore innovative design.

INTRODUCTION



2.5 PARAMETRIC ARCHITECTURE

During the past decade, the practice of architecture has changed radically. The commercial availability of

complex software and its hardware technologies has created a fast, accurate and globally transferable design,

culture and community. Architects attempt to cope with the changes being brought to them by the virtual

world.

only in its relation with others. Parametric design as an approach to

architecture relies on establishing relationships (parameter) between elements, in such a way that it will

allow for changes to percolate through the different elements of the design and update dynamically

whenever modified. Using the computational concepts of evolutionary programming or fitness algorithms,

the user sets up a set of rules and goals (variants) , and computer tests an unlimited number of scenarios until

the ideal solution is found.

assembly of associative operations. Equations can be used to describe the relationships between objects, thus

defining an associative geometry.

Ngu parametric design has variable and fixed features while variables are

known as parameters (which are geometrical relations and numbers) and fixed features are called

constraints.

Consequently, modelling a form needs values to be assigned for parameters while mathematical equations

are capable to define the relations between objects ( Stavric and Marina, 2011). When the architect alters the

parameters to explore various alternative solutions for particular problem the model will respond to

modifications through automatically updating itself without deleting or modelling and elements.

Branko kolarevic defines the parametric design as a process where the designer deals with mathematical

formulas and parametrical values, and breeds variations within family of entities. Equations are used to

represent the mathematical and geometric relations between objects.

By expressing the relational network within and between objects, the designer acquires the capacity to

regenerate, redefine and reconfigure relations. Since, in parametric design approach, parameters are related

to each other through equations and relations, when one entity is modified in the defined model, other

entities will automatically update themselves. Such an interactive simulation of the variation is possible via

the transformation and modification of parameters.

INTRODUCTION



2.6 DESIGN EXPLORATION

designers it also considered as tools for variable design representations. These systems support creativity by

enabling designers in generating, managing, and organizing highly complex design models, particularly

Figure 4: Dubai towers, Dubai

Figure 6: Lansdowne Road Stadium, Dublin

Figure 5: THESE FORMS CREATED IN THE EXAMPLES

ARE NOT CONVENTIONAL AND TECHNICAL

SOLUTIONS REQUIRE USING COMPLEX GEOMETRY

SOLVERS I.E. PARAMERTIC DESIGN TOOLS.

DUBAI TOWERS, DUBAI

LANSDOWNE ROAD STADIUM, DUBLIN

INTRODUCTION


ELEMNTS OF PARAMETRIC DESIGN CHAPTER 3

ELEMENTS OF PARAMETRIC DESIGN

foundations and matter properties that will bring your mind to the doorstep of the boundless land of

complexity.

- Andrea Graziano

Figure 7: Showing steps to execute a design

Learn

Learn skills and techniques from

proven computational designers.

Create

Create your own algorithms,

automate and optimize your

design processes.

Execute

Know the best practices for

executing your skills in real

projects.

INTRODUCTION



3.1 TERMS AND DEFINITION

For better understanding of parametric design process it is necessary to define the following terms:

VARIABLES- Variables are the drivers of geometric variations. Two types of variables: independent and

dependent.

CONSTRAINTS- Constraints help delineate the range of variations that a parametric model can sustain.

Two types of constraints: dimensional and geometric.

Dimensional constraints are essential in defining the geometry of a design concept. For example one might

define an arc by constraining its radius, and length. Such constraints establish a dependency of the geometric

elements on the variable(s) that defines them.

The "independent variables" is a user defined

numeric inputs, whose value can actively be

controlled and changed whereas the "dependent

variable" is the output, whose value changes as a

result.

Figure 8: Relationship between independent

and dependent variable

Figure 9: Column Detail Figure 10: Column showing height

INTRODUCTION



Capital Height + Shaft Height + Base Height = Height of Ceiling (fixed)

NURBS - Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines, are mathematical representations of 3-D geometry that can

accurately describe any shape from a simple 2-D line, circle, arc, or curve to the most complex 3-D organic

free-form surface or solid. Because of their flexibility and accuracy, NURBS models can be used in any

process from illustration and animation to manufacturing.

Figure 11: Column basic constraint

Figure 12: "Villa Nurbs", Empuriabrava

INTRODUCTION



NURBS geometry has five important qualities that make it an ideal choice for computer-aided modelling.

Several industry-standard methods are used to exchange NURBS geometry. This means that

customers are able to move their valuable geometric models between various modelling, rendering,

animation, and engineering analysis programs. They can store geometric information in a way that

will be usable for the foreseeable future.

NURBS have a precise and well-known definition. The mathematics and computer science of

NURBS geometry is taught in most major universities. This means that specialty software vendors,

engineering teams, industrial design firms, and animation houses that need to create custom software

applications, can find trained programmers who are able to work with NURBS geometry.

NURBS can accurately represent both standard geometric objects like lines, circles, ellipses, spheres,

and tori, and free-form geometry like car bodies and human bodies.

The amount of information required for a NURBS representation of a piece of geometry is much

smaller than the amount of information required by common faceted approximations.

The NURBS evaluation rule, discussed below, can be implemented on a computer in a way that is

both efficient and accurate.

TOPOLOGICAL SPACE- Architectural or curviliearity, NURBS make the heterogeneous and coherent

forms of the topological space which is computationally possible.

Figure13: High genus topological bodies

INTRODUCTION



ALGORITHMIC-Step by step procedure designed to perform an operation, and which (like a map or

flowchart) will lead to the sought result if followed correctly. Algorithms have a definite beginning and a

definite end, and a finite number of steps. An algorithm produces the same output information given the

same input information, and several short algorithms can be combined to perform complex tasks such as

writing a computer program.

SCRIPT-A script language is a programming language that supports the writing of scripts, programs written

for a software environment that automate the execution of tasks which could alternatively be executed one-

by-one by a human operator.

Figure 14: Voronoi the Algorithmic Design Floating Paradise by Hyun-Seok Kim

Figure 15: Script

INTRODUCTION



GENERATIVE COMPONENET (GC)- Generative Components is parametric CAD software developed

by Bentley Systems which enables the designer to set up complex design models using any combination of

geometric relations, algebraic expression, logical dependencies and scripting techniques to get the essential

design intent. GC is an application for designers with no programming experience.

GRASSHOPPER-Grasshopper is a software in which graphical algorithmic can be edited tightly with

-D modelling tools. Unlike Rhino script, Grasshopper requires no knowledge of programming or

scripting, but still allows designers to build form generators from the simple to the awe-inspiring.(Davidson,

2010)

Figure 16: Grasshopper
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Systems

INTRODUCTION



3.2 GEOMETRY

Geometry plays a critical role in the generation of building form and structure. Geometry in the schematic

design plays to explore design ideas. A geometric shape has own architectural and structural characteristics.

3.2.1 CONTROL ON GEOMETRY

By using the parametric approach we can regulate and control the complex geometry by defining the control

points or through the mathematical programming to get desired form.

Figure 17: Geometric control under parametric guideline

INTRODUCTION



Figure 18: Geometric control under parametric guideline

For generating given geometry we have to define two geometric controls.

First the dotted line along the circles are repeated, second the repeating pattern of circles. In the same way a

particular pattern of geometry can be transformed on a given curved surface. This type of actions is not possible

through the conventional design tools where the geometric element automatically transformed itself along the

curved surface.

As shown in figure same method while applied while designing BIRD NEST IN CHINA.

INTRODUCTION



PARAMETRIC STUDY:

Figure 19: Parametric Study for National Stadium, Beijing

NATIONAL STADIUM-

Ground Floor Area [footprint]:

780,122 ft2

The stadium is 330 meters (1,082 ft) long by 220 meters (721 ft) wide, and is 69.2 meters (227

ft) tall

Number of floors:

7 floors (Including 2 Elevated tiers)

Total Building area:

2,777,112 ft2

. Stadium uses 258,000 square meters (2,777,112 square feet) of space and has a usable area of

204,000 square meters (2,195,856 square feet).

Number of occupants:

91,000-100,000

GEOMETRIC PATTERN OVERLAY

INTRODUCTION



NATIONAL STADIUM-

- with its unique outer casting of tangled steel girders is one of the key landmarks of the games

National stadium:

Location : Olympic green, Beijing

Total land surface : 258,000 sq m

Ground breaking : December 2003

Seating : 91,000 (including 11,000 temporary)

Designer : Herzog and De Meuron(Swiss)

: China Architecture design

: Institute, Arup Sport

Initial budget : US$500 million

Main body

composed of

24 columns of

trusses,

surrounding

bowl-shaped

stands.

Events

Competitions: opening

and closing ceremonies

Athletics

Football

Red lighting

For night-time view ETFE panels

(Ethylene Tretrafluorcethylene)

1. 40,000 sq meters provided by

German firm co vertex.

2. Strength over wide temperature

range.

3. High corrosion resistance.

Steel roof

330mX220m weighs

45,000 tones

Interwoven series of

steel box sections

Special design tools were

developed to-analyses

complex geometry at speed

-check strength of steel girders

against the Chinese Steel

Code.

Acoustic membrane

On lower surface, reflects and

absorbs sound to maintain the

atmosphere in stadium.

Original design incorporated a

sliding roof, later eliminated

for cost and safety concerns.

Seven layers to

the stadium

Concrete work of

main stands

completed first,

and then steel

skeleton was

welded together.

Outer surface

Inclines at 13 degrees to the

vertical

Green features

1. Rainwater collecting

system

2. Translucent roof for

natural lighting

3. Natural ventilation system

Olympic green

Olympic

forest park

Olympic village

National indoor

stadium National

Aquatics

center

Lies 8 km due north of Tiananmen Square and the former imperial palace

National stadium

Olympic

green Tiananmen

Square

Figure 21: National Stadium, Beijing

Source:http://beijingbirdsnest.wordpress.com/architecture/beijin

g-national-stadium-facts/

Figure 20: National Stadium, Beijing location plan

INTRODUCTION



3.2.2 EXPLORATION OF GEOMETRY THROUGH TOPOLOGICAL GEOMETRY

The parametric geometry is represented by parametric functions, which describe a range of possibilities. The

continuous, highly curvilinear surfaces are mathematically described as NURBS-Non-Uniform Rational B-

Splines. Due to which parametric model enables high precision rapid-prototyping despite complex

geometries.

In architectural curvilinearity Frank Gehry offers examples of new approaches to design that move away

This was achieved through folding of discrete volumes, and employs topological, metal-sheet geometry of

continues curves and surfaces as shown in figure.

Figure 22: The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao was built between October 1993 and October 1997 and the site chosen, on

a former wharf with port and industrial use on a curve of the Nervin, represented recovery of the banks of

the river for the city, redeveloping them for culture and leisure.

INTRODUCTION



3.3 ALGORITHMS

Parametric systems are principally based on algorithmic principles. Therefore, it is necessary to understand

the role of algorithms and algorithmic thinking in design. An algorithmic is a finite set of instructions that

aim to fulfil a clearly defined purpose in a finite number of steps. An algorithmic takes one value or a set of

values as input, executes a series of computational steps that transform the input, and finally produces one

value or a set of values as output.

On the algorithmic level the focus is on the development of computational design logic that is a sequence of

algebraic, analytical, and geometric operations for the manipulation of data and its translation into

architectural properties. One of the first built examples based on an algorithmic design approach was the

pavilion for the Serpentine Gallery by Toyo Ito and Cecil Balmondin 2002. The use of an interactive

subdivision of adjacent sides resulted in a dense field of lines that defined the location of structural members

as well as the distribution of openings for the enclosed cubic space.(kotnic,2007).

Due to the mathematical complexity of Gehry's design, he

decided to work with advanced software initially conceived

for the aerospace industry, CATIA, to faithfully translate

his concept to the structure and to help construction. For

the outer skin of the building, the architect chose titanium

after ruling out other materials and seeing the behaviour of

a titanium sample pinned outside his office. The finish of

the approximately 33,000 extremely thin titanium sheets

provides a rough and organic effect, adding to the

material's color changes depending on the weather and light

conditions. The other two materials used in the building,

limestone and glass, harmonize perfectly, achieving an

architectural design with a great visual impact that has now

become a real icon of the city throughout the world.

Figure 23: Showing thin titanium sheets in Guggenheim Museum construction

INTRODUCTION



Figure 24: The diagrammatic representation of the associative geometric elements

Figure 25: Serpentine Gallery Pavilion 2002

INTRODUCTION



3.3.1 ALGORITHMIC PROCEDURES AND SCRIPTING

An algorithm, defined as computational procedures to work off complex situations and problems, identifies

a problem in a finite number of steps. The algorithmic description of the geometry and the procedures is

enabled through a network of mathematical models and generative procedures where a set of parametric

variables and regulations are defined.

Through coding the relations and regulations, s/he can define his/her own procedure and write the script of

the design process. Scripting, defined as writing simple computer programs, make possible to control and

automate operations through a series of codes and instructions.

Through modifying the internal structure, that is, the script, the whole process can be manipulated and a set

of possibilities defined. As a consequence, every new execution of the algorithmic may rise to the evolution

of design solutions tracked by new outcomes. On the other hand, scripted algorithm does not only define

numerous outcomes subsequent to the changes, but also assist their selection or elimination according to the

constraints integrated into the script. This makes possible to define a set of potential solutions through

controlling the script rather than making a selection according to formal criteria

.

3.3.2 EXPLORATION OF PARAMETRIC DESIGN THROUGH ALGORITHMS

The design of the national swimming centre in Beijing by PTW Architects (Peddle Thorp and Walker) is

another example of design development based on algorithmic construction of the underlying geometric

structure. The formal description of the space filling was defined by behaviour of foam bubbles and its

abstraction as Wearie-Phelan geometry enabled the use of complex polyhedral cells as a construction

system, a rational and efficient solution that appears to be random.(Xia,2008)

Figure26: The National Swimming Center in Beijing by PTW architects, bubble pattern

Source: http://www.eikongraphia.com/?p=63
http://www.eikongraphia.com/?p=63

INTRODUCTION



Figure 27: Parametric model of National Swimming Center

Source: http://aecmag.com/case-studies-mainmenu-37/251-creating-a-er-cubem

Geometry of the British museum great court roof

In some cases the criteria in form-finding may not be purely technical. The British museum roof provides a

dramatic example. Its configuration was determined by a relaxation algorithm, in which the goal criterion

was visually continuity, not structure. Structural strength was gained partly by sectional properties and foe

the same of the corner members are nearly made of solid steel.

Techniques such as non-uniform rational B-spline (NURBS) surfaces have been used to define the roof

surface. The geometric pattern generated by using the mathematical algorithmic, shown below.

Figure 28: Parametric model of British museum great court roof Figure 29: British museum great court roof

INTRODUCTION



3.4 PARAMETRIC SOFTWARE

Parametric and generative modelling have become increasingly popular in the world of architectural design.

This has caused many software developers to release applications that support this kind of modelling. One of

the Generative Components, which based on their Micro station CAD

software. While being a very powerful tool, GC also has a number of disadvantages. It is a very complex

piece of software that requires extensive training to master. It is also expensive, which may put it out of

reach of individuals, schools, and smaller architectural practices. There are alternatives to GC though, such

as Rhino, which has a much lower price tag. It does not however address the issues of complexity and the

steep learning curve that are associated with GC.GC has a number of built-in components that are used to

create geometry, and while they may be hard to find and use without training, they enable models to be built

without needing to write any code (although custom components can be written by the user). To do

parametric modelling in Rhino however, the user must write scripts (using Visual Basic, C++, or Rhino

Script) to generate the geometry.

3.4.1 GENERATIVE COMPONENTS

Generative Components was invented by Robert Aish at

Bentley Systems consists of founding partners of ,KPF , Forster and Partners, and Arup Sport.

Figure 30: A typical generative components work session within micro station
http://www.stress-free.co.nz/files/u63/gc_typical_interface_lg.jpg

INTRODUCTION



Generative Components which is based on the concepts of associative design and object-orientation, is

constructed in C language. Generative Components allows users to design (such as basic elements: point ,

line , face) by giving its specific definition, thus a collection of defined objects provide the ability to control

the entity of design through controlling objects.

Features

Generative Component (GC) enables the designer to set up complex design models using any combination of geometric relations, algebraic expressions, and logical dependencies and scripting

techniques to capture the essential design intent.

GC also can facilitate feedback loops between parametric associative modelling and environment analysis.

GC is both an application for designers with no programming experience, who want to design by establishing associatively between geometric elements, and for designers who are actively

interested in exploring the overlap between conventional design and programming design (using

scripting techniques). (Kudless,2007)

Designers can be refined by either dynamically modelling or directly manipulating geometry, by applying rules and capturing relationships among building elements, or by defining complex

building forms and systems through concisely expressed algorithms.

GC is integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM) analysis, and simulation software, providing feedback on building materials, assemblies, systems performance, and environmental

conditions.

3.4.2

There are two main types of object in grasshopper: Parameters and Components. Parameters are used to

input Variables and feed them into Components that transform them and output the result, which may be

geometry or simply data that can be input into further Components. This visual system allows highly

complex systems to be created in a flexible and non-linear way, and enables relationships between different

operations to be easily laid bare. The components can be arranged on the canvas in whatever way the user

wishes, so they can effectively create a map of the logic of their design. It must be said that GC does make

d o es s o i n a cu m b e r s o m e w a y

t h a t o n l y t e l l s the designer in general terms which operations rely on others, and does not allow for

direct editing of the parameters of these operations.

INTRODUCTION



Grasshopper was initially very simple, but more features have been added over time, which allow for very

complete systems to be modelled, and like GC, it allows users to create custom components using C# or

Visual Basic in order to extend

is still in

development, which means features are being added or refined on a regular basis, based on user feedback.

As around 90% of registered Grasshopper users are architects, one could say that makes them the driving

force for new features and improvements, so shaping Grasshopper to the needs of architectural design first

and foremost.

Figure 31: Implementing design with the help of Grasshopper

INTRODUCTION



Features

An advantage of grasshopper is that users with little programming experience can manipulate

graphic nodes to define relationships for each element to generate parametric model.

Each graphic node in grasshopper is similar to a modeling element which enables users to learn the

logic of modeling process to build parametric models.

Because it has a flat learning curve and it is until now still freeware, many rhino users begin to learn

Grasshopper lets users manipulate graphic nodes, and allow users to script in VB. Net, C# and

python. This scripting portal is used by advanced users to develop free applications for non-

programming users to manipulate new functions.

data to control elements.

Because Grasshopper is working with Rhino, can be comparison to Genitive Components, which

generates small text file as definition of the models, unlike digital project models that turn into large

3d models after its final process.

The weakness of Grasshopper is that it is difficult to assemble many parametric elements.

Grasshopper is powerful to generate parametric architectural forms, detail design models, material

strategy analyze and to analyze models, but it is very difficult to assemble all predefined elements

foe entire building design.

INTRODUCTION


PARAMETRIC DESIGN METHODOLIGES CHAPTER 4

Parametric Methods

When we define the object in a general sense, using variable attributes (parameters) we allow for a

large (possibly infinite) number of specific design instances.

When we use parameters to define a large number of instances, and then select the best one, we are performing parametric design.

When the values of parameters are real numbers, we call this parametric variation. Parameters can also have entities besides real numbers as values. For examples:

A list of available materials (material)

Number of wings (integer)

A list of available circuits (component)

Hernandez talks about parametric combinations and parametric hybrid models, depending on what type of entities the parameters are.

We will use the term parametric models in a more general sense, and admit parameters with different types of entities.

Developing Parametric Models

Figure 32: Parametric model of Rectangle

Start with a rectangle Identify a family of shapes by defining one parameter

INTRODUCTION



Parametric Model Case I

Parameter = Width Height = 2 (we say it is constrained)

We have defined a family with 1 parameter

Parameter = Width Height = 2 (we say it is constrained)

We have defined a family with 1 parameter We have defined an infinite number of design instances

Figure 33: Parametric model of Rectangle consider width as a parameter

rhino/

Figure 34: Transformation in Parametric model of Rectangle

INTRODUCTION



Parametric Model Case II

Parameter = Height Width = 3 (constrained)

We have defined a family with 1 parameter. We have defined an infinite number of design instances.

Parametric Model Case III

x- and y-coordinates of 3 nodes are parameters

Instances are not constrained to rectangles

Figure 35: Transformation in Parametric model of Rectangle consider height as a parameter

Figure 36: Transformation in Parametric model of Rectangle consider coordinates as a

parameter

INTRODUCTION


CASE STUDIES CHAPTER 5

Riverside Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects, Glasgow, UK

Project Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects

Project: Riverside Museum

Location: Glasgow, Scotland

Client: Glasgow City Council

Design: Zaha Hadid Architects

Project Director: Jim Heverin

Program: Exhibition space, cafe, retail, education

Size/Area

Total Area: 11 000 m2

Exhibition Area: 7000 m2

Site Area: 22,400 m2

Footprint Area: 7,800 m2

Materials

Steel Frame

Corrugated Metal Decking

Zinc Cladding

Glass-reinforced gypsum interior surface

Figure 37: Riverside Museum by Zaha Hadid Architects, Glasgow, UK

INTRODUCTION



Location plan

Located where the Kelvin joins the Clyde

a dynamic relationship where the museum is the voice of both, connecting the city to the river and also the

transition from one to the other.

Concept and design

The Riverside Museum is derived from its context. The historic development of the Clyde and the city of

city to the river; symbolizing a dynamic relationship where the museum is the voice of both, connecting the

city to the river and also the transition from one to the other. The museum is situated in very context of its

origins, with its design actively encouraging connectivity between the exhibits and the wider environment.

Riverside museum in

Glasgow, Scotland

River Clyde

River Kelvin

River Clyde

River kelvin

Scottish Exhibition and

Conference centre

Royal hospital for

sick children

Figure 38: Location map

INTRODUCTION



The building, open at opposite ends, has a tunnel-like configuration between the city and the Clyde.

However, within this connection between the city and river, the building diverts to create a journey away

from its external context into the world of the exhibits. Here, the internal path within the museum becomes a

mediator between city and river, which can either be hermetic or porous depending on the exhibition layout.

Thus, the museum positions itself symbolically and functionally as open and fluid, engaging its context and

build up a gradual sense of the external context as they move through the museum from exhibit to exhibit.

The design is a sectional extrusion, open at opposing ends along a diverted linear path. This cross-sectional

outline could be seen as a cityscape and is a responsive gesture to encapsulate (enclose something in) waves

on water. The outer ces. This leaves the main

central space column- -class

collection.

Open at

opposite ends

Tunnel like configuration

River

City

Zigzagging profile in section

Column-free spans

Some savvy structural

manoeuvres beneath its sleek skin

of zinc.

Sectional extrusion

Figure 39: External profile of Riverside Museum

INTRODUCTION



Construction

g a piece of paper into pleats and then bending it twice 120 degrees in

opposite directions along its length. Such manoeuvres (a movement or series of moves requiring skill and

care) are easily accomplished with paper, but real-life constraints, including supporting the weight of

building materials and resisting wind loads, call for careful calculations.

Buro Happed articulated the roof structure to function as a single unit that spans lengthwise like a rigid beam

rather than crossways between side wall

are accustomed to dissecting a structure into individual elements that perform different functions a

ll function together

Consider the roof structure to function as a single unit that spans lengthwise like a rigid beam rather than

crossways between side walls which leaves the main central space column free.

Columns

Beams

Column free-space

Figure 40: Method applied in placing columns and beams

INTRODUCTION



ROOF SECTION

External building envelope

covered with zinc cladding

Glass-fibre reinforced gypsum fillet

Internal plasterboard lining on

supporting structure

Horizontal, continues fire break in

wall cavity

Air plenum in wall cavity

Acoustical lining 175mm polished concrete layer

Structural slab

Glass-fibre reinforced gypsum service strip to

conceal services

700mm structural zone

Ceiling lining on

contractor-designed

substructure

Figure 41: Axonometric Section, showing envelop build up

INTRODUCTION



These integral pieces include a series of latticed trusses made of structural steel. Steel tubes form ridges and

valleys that ultimately span a length of over 100 m (328'), including those two twists-and-turns. While

typical A-frames rely on horizontal members to complete the "triangle" and provide stiffness.

Achieving a Column Free Vision: The steelwork solution utilises the folded plate geometry of the roof, translating from the faade, the side walls and the structurally stiff zones where the roof changes direction if possible to minimize the depth of the structure which is hidden within the building shell to 700mm.

Integrated services: Substantial tunnels below the floor, up to 3.5m deep are the main routes for the building services including lighting, heating, IT cables and pipe work. Rainwater, brought in from the roof via a network of pipes is also transmitted through these conduits.

Functional faade: Providing a low level of air leakage and substantial insulation to reduce the extremes of temperature and thus reducing the demand for heating and cooling. The north and south glass facades are also multi-purpose.

ar roof was an achievement in itself but many other, hidden aspects of this museum required

exceptional engineering even although they will go un-

Figure 42: Sections

INTRODUCTION



Another major load consideration was the force of the wind, which can gust in at over 100 mph from the

Atlantic. The engineers conducted wind tunnel analyses on a physical model to accurately study how the

wind pressure distribution would work and anticipate peak suctions and stresses at overhangs. They placed

portal frames and cross bracing in the periphery of the building that provide lateral stability, located along

the retail areas, cloak rooms, cafe area, and workshops.

With weight transferred effectively down through the side walls and with proper bracing in place, the end

walls of the Riverside Museum could open, allowing natural light to permeate the building and creating a

symbolic link between the River Clyde and the city of Glasgow. These glazed ends also expose the jagged

section of the roof. However, opening

Mangelsdorf. The mullions behind the glass are actually structural columns holding up the ends of the roof.

cause you see the short

One load consideration is the weight of the roof itself: the steel members weigh 2,500 metric tons

(over 5.5 million pounds) and they are topped with 185 metric tons (over 400,000 pounds) of zinc

cladding. The architect's design called for an open interior to provide flexibility for ever-changing exhibitions, so internal columns were not an

option. The engineers did place columns along the exterior walls to transfer the weight of the roof to the ground. These columns are spaced 6 m (19.7')

on centre with a depth of 700 mm (just over 2') and were designed with stiff connections. As well,

the brackets on the columns support platforms that cantilever from the wall like shelves to create

of cars.

Figure 43: brackets on the columns support platforms that cantilever from the wall

INTRODUCTION



Software used

The design team used three-dimensional software to work out the specifics of the structure required to

support such a complex form. The architect defined the inner and outer envelope in CATIA, and Buro

Happold used Rhino to visualize and analyze their structural design. They articulated the connections

between members with Tekla, a program also used by the steelwork fabricator.

INTRODUCTION



Shanghai tower, China

Shanghai Rising

-

meter-high mixed-use building will comple -highrise precinct.It is the most forward-

form symbolize the dyanmic emergence of modern China.By incorporating sustainable best practice

Shanghai Tower is at the forefront of a new generation of super-highrise towers,achieving the highest level

of performance.632 metres (2,073 ft), have 128 stories, and contain an area of 380,000 m2.

It will be the

tallest building in China and is slated to be the second tallest in the world.Tower features office space,

luxury residences, a high-end hotel, retail space, restaurants and a public observatory.

Project facts

SITE Location : Lujiazui Finance and Trade zone, Pudong district, Shanghai, China Area : 30,370 square meters

TOWER Height : 632 meters Stories : 121 occupied floors Area : 380,000 square meters above grade 141,000 square meters below grade Program : Office, luxury hotel, entertainment, retail, and cultural venues

PODIUM Height : 36.9 meters Stories : 5 occupied floors Area : 46,000 square meters Program : luxury retail, bank, restaurant, conference,

meeting, and banquet functions. Below grade levels will house retail, 1,800 parking spaces, and services.

DESIGNER ARCHITECT Gensler

LOCAL DESIGN INSTITUTE Architectural Design and Research Institute of Tongji University

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER Thornton Tomansetti

INTRODUCTION



Location

Concept and design

Shanghai tower

Pearl River Rose

garden

Shanghai Pudong

Mosque

Oriental

Riverside Hotel

Huangpu River

Self Contained city Shanghai tower is a city within a city

comprising nine vertical zones, each 12 to 15 stories high. Each zone is encircled by

public space within the double skin faade. Within each neighborhood, a mix

uses caters to the daily needs of occupants. Separate elevators shuttle

people among zones and below grade parking links via walkways to the nearly

super high-rise parking links via walkways to the nearly super - high-rise

towers.

Figure 44: Location plan

INTRODUCTION



Zone 9

Observation /cultural facilities

Zone 8

Hotel/boutique office

Zone 7

Hotel

Zone 6

Office

Zone 5

Office

Zone 4

Office

Zone 3

Office

Zone 2

Office

Zone 1

Retail

Observation level

The highest of the nine zones houses

public amenities: restaurant, an

exhibition center, and enclosed and

open observation decks by the tallest

single-lift elevator in the world

Offices

Zones 2 through 6 are comprised of

high performance offices, all is which

are filled with natural light and

connect to the atriums with expansive

views of the city.

Sky lobbies

Each office zone rises from a sky

lobby at its base a light-filled garden

atrium that fosters community and

supports daily life. Shops and

restaurants in each lobby lower the

demand for trips to the ground level

which saves energy.

Retail podium

Zone 1 is the base level retail podium

of luxury boutiques, high-end dinning

destinations, cafes and lounges.

Ground floor lobbies

Both the office tower and the hotel

conference center functions will be

accessed through separate, dedicated

lobbies.

Figure 45: Showing different zones with their classifications

INTRODUCTION



Construction

Construction moves

ahead as the technical

complexities of the

ucture, glass

enclosure,and mechnacial

systems are skillfully

managed.

Soil conditions in Shanghai- a clay-based mixture typical of a river delta- meant supporting the tower on 831 reinforced concrete bore piles sunk deep into the ground.

61,000 cubic meters of concrete has been used to create the six-meters-thick mat foundation.

Erecting gigantic composite columns- measuring 5X4 meters at the base and reinforced with steel plates that weigh 145 meters tons each- that will provide structural support for the tower.

To carry the load of transparent glass skin, Gensler designed an innovative curtain wall that that is suspended from the mechanical floors above and stabilized by a system of hoop rings and struts.

And the strategic division of the tower into nine vertical

cooling, water, and power throughout with less energy and at lower cost.

HOOP RINGS

MECHANICAL

FLOOR

STRUTS

MAT FOUNDATION

INTRODUCTION



The spiralling form of the tower rotates as it rises, signifying the emergence of

china as a global financial power.

. Qingwei Kong, president of the Shanghai tower

construction and Development co.,Ltd.,a.

more room for green spaces, pedestrian paths, and

entryways to the tower, creating a public space for

respite and social interaction.

Shanghai tower, at 632 meters, is a 121-

as well as dining, shopping, hospitality, and

entertainment destinations. The Chrysler

Building is shown for scale.

INTRODUCTION



Innovations

typhoon. Results produced a structure and shape that reduce wind loads by 24 percent-ultimately yielding a

saving of $58 million in construction costs. A simple structure, public spaces within the double facade , and

sky gardens based on shanghai traditional open courtyards will make Shanghai tower an unrivalled asset for

the Lujiazui district.

A 16 meter tall scale model of the tower passed ashake table test simulating earthquakes measuring up to 7.5

on Richter scale.

Planning concept

Shaped to reduce wind loads

would allow the building to withstand typhoon wind

forces common to Shanghai. Using wind tunnels tests, Gensler and structural engineer Thornton refined the

with unprecedented transparency and a 32% reduction of costly materials.

Figure 46: Many options were studied, but wind tunnel tests pinpointed a 120-degree rotation as optimal for

minimizing wind loads.

INTRODUCTION



Landscaped atriums are located

regular intervals throughout the

buildings

Tuned-mass damper minimizes

building movement.

The innovation design incorporates two independent

curtain walls - the outer skin is cam shaped in plan,

the inner one is circular. The space between them

forms atriums that will house landscaped public

gardens at regular intervals throughout the building.

These sky gardens will improve air quality, creative

visual connections between the city and t

and provides a place where building users can

interact and mingle.

The landscaped sky lobbies will be social and retail

hubs foe each neighbourhood within the building.

Benefits of the double skin

INTRODUCTION



`

Concerns over light pollution had significant impact

on the design of the outer curtain wall. Two curtain-

wall schemes were

studied extensively. The test revealed that a

staggered skin made up of glass panels set vertically

was far superior to a smooth skin of angled glass,

which would reflect much more light onto

neighbouring buildings.

The outer curtain wall design incorporates metal

shelves at each floor level, producing the preferred

staggered configuration.

Light reflectance off the curtain wall was modelled

using Ecotech software, which showed that the

desirable.

Minimizing reflection and glare

A fast tracked super-high-rise tower

Figure 47: The outer skin gradually narrow at each floor level,

giving the glass tower an elegant tapered profile

Figure 48: Structural diagram

INTRODUCTION



Software used

The design team used three-dimensional software to work out the specifics of the structure required to

support such a complex form. For Light reflectance off the curtain wall was modeled using Ecotech

software.

response to many challenges: a windy climate, an

active earthquake zone, and clay-based soil. The

heart of the structural system is a concrete core. The

core acts in concert with an outrigger and super

column system, with double belt trusses that

support the base of each vertical neighbourhood.

This series of drawings illustrates the layering of

structure, composite floors, inner skin, and

exterior curtain wall.

INTRODUCTION


CONCLUSION CHAPTER 6

This development in computational design tools, altered the conventional architecture design approach, and

opened up new grounds for the generation and experimentation of design ideas.

Changes in architectural design processes have followed paradigm changes in mathematics and geometry,

and the increasing use of computer as a generative device, altogether altering design processes in

architecture. The parametric computational tools blurred the boundaries between different phrases of the

process of design.

Parametric design is a method of intelligently designing architectural objects based on relationships and

rules using the computer. The use of this tool has allowed for more complex free form, shapes as well as

multiple reactive yet repeating elements to be created. With the use of parametric software, architects are

able to study relationships and incorporate basic aspects of the actual construction including material,

manufacturing technologies and structural properties into the design process.

Parametric design does not reduce design complexity. Complexity is probably one of the central terms that

describe the contemporary design problems in architecture. The increasing design complexity in architecture

is not only due to external stimuli such as increasing building performance requirements, new building

functions, design processes etc., but also due to new formal interest in free-form geometry and the

underlying mathematical and geometric concepts.

dissertation on parametric forms

Documents

design tool

introduction parametric

design of buildings

architectural design

design process

entire design

design parameter

new design problems