Computer simulation for intuitive structuring

Abstract

Computer simulation methods have opened up new possibilities for design and research by introducing environments in which we can manipulate and observe. For instance, architects utilise threedimensional modelling tools to simulate architectural geometries, and engineers use Finite Element software to simulate structural behaviour. Simulation tools make certain aspects of architecture efficient, but, on the other hand, they have brought new types of challenges into the field. One such challenge is the structuring of so-called complex geometries. These forms are often conceived in an environment where gravity, scales, and material are absent and calculated in a model where geometries are frozen and static. As a result, there exists little understanding between the two disciplines in solving the design to come to a well-negotiated form. In the context thereof, our work focuses on the development of interactive simulation environments that induce intuition towards the specific counter-intuitive problem of structuring in the early stages of design. The paper gives insights into aspects of simulation relevant to architectural design and structural engineering. Subsequently, three simulation environments that we have developed are presented to demonstrate our strategies. © 2012, Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong.