Simulation Design Tools Using Parametric Building Information Modeling and Physical Simulation for Form Finding of Double Curved Surfaces

Abstract

Parametric modeling is a powerful tool to create variations of a design following specified criteria. Physical modeling provides flexible relationships between design elements and can simulate the behavior of hanging chain models. Building Information Modeling can contain geometry and design properties and relations. In this paper it is proposed to join all three to create a Simulation Design Tool that allows the intuitive creation of double curved surfaces which follow the rules of funicular systems (Figure 1). This tool is implemented in B-Processor, open-source Building Information Modeling software to bridge the break that occurs when moving from a design software package to Building Information Modeling. It is shown how the tool balances intuitive sculpting and accurate simulation and how the user can interact to mediate different design requirements.