Abstract

This paper explores iterative search methods for the form finding of discrete funicular structures under constraints resulting from requirements of curved-crease folded (CCF) moulds. It integrates the two-step form-finding process described in Bhooshan et al. [1] into a unified procedure and thus overcomes the design difficulties described there. As noted in Bhooshan et al. [1], there is a general compatibility between compressive structures and CCF moulds. However, there is also an inherent negotiation between the local curvatures of the equilibrium shape and the cross-sectional depth of the mould so formed. This paper describes an easy-to-implement search optimization method, based on the ‘variational’ extension of the Force Density Method described in Lachauer and Block [5] that is compatible with interactive shape modelling and satisfies specific static equilibrium and mould-making constraints.

Citation

Bhooshan, S., Mele, T.V. and Block, P., 2015, August. Discrete funicular structures with curve-folded moulds. In Proceedings of IASS Annual Symposia (Vol. 2015, No. 22, pp. 1-12). International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS).