Brick Patterning on Free-Form Surfaces

Abstract

With the aim of proposing vaults and domes in contemporary architecture, this paper explores an innovative method to help designers model the brick patterning on a curved surface automatically and interactively, especially during the early design phases, when most important decisions are made. The focus is on the development of a modeling approach to patterning, capable of defining the brick courses, handling mortar thickness, and controlling all the related geometrical issues of free-form surfaces. A computational environment has been developed and implemented to simulate patterning in 3-D space, allowing the user to develop the arrangement of bricks on a desired structure. With this digital tool it is possible to model different kinds of patterns such as stretcher bond or herringbone pattern on any kind of free-form surface, increasing the accuracy and speed of construction and enabling the designer and builder to estimate the brick requirements before fabrication.