Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

download Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

of 53

Transcript of Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    1/53

    GENERATIVE ALGORITHMSCONCEPTS and EXPERIMENTS: Strip Morphologies

    ZUBIN KHABAZI

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    2/53

    2

    Generative Algorithms

    Concepts and Experiments

    3_Strip Morphologies

    Zubin Khabazi

    2011 Zubin M Khabazi

    This book produced and published digitally for public use. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever

    without permission from the author, except in the context of reviews.

    To see the latest updates visit my website or for enquiries contact me at:

    www.MORPHOGENESISM.com

    [email protected]

    http://www.morphogenesism.com/http://www.morphogenesism.com/
  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    3/53

    3

    Generative Algorithms, Concepts and Experiments

    We all are witnessing a rapid growth of digital design tools which are pushing the boundaries of design inany possible way. Parametric Softwares, Plug-ins, Add-ons, Scripts and Toolsets are developing so fast and

    designers add them into their available catalogue of tools every day, simple and sweet! At the same time,

    there is a growing interest between architects and designers to use new concepts in their projects to leave

    the notion of postmodern concept and pursue a new line of form generation through application of

    material systems, bottom-up design methods, bio-informed structures, etc. Here, search for new possibilities,

    new material systems, new algorithms, and generally new methods of design and fabrication is in the front

    line of researchers and designers.

    MORPHOGENESISM, looks for such new design methods, new material systems / organizations and new

    algorithms of design, in Generative Algorithms, as a representative of current researches in the studio

    considering physical experiments in combination with digital algorithms. It is believed here that the

    circulation of ideas would help the community of designers to explore more and more, and feedback of

    this circulation will again reshape the studio in a connected network of minds.

    AfterWeaving structures and Porous Shell Systems as generative design experiments, the third of the series

    Generative Algorithms, Concepts and Experiments focused on Strip morphologies as a light weight

    material system for design. I hope this topic would be useful as a technique / system and be Generative

    for your design purposes.

    Zubin Khabazi

    MORPHOGENESISM

    Master of Architecture / AA

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    4/53

    4

    Contents

    1_Generatice Algorithms, Concepts and Experiments_3_Strip Morphologies....................... 5

    1_1_Introduction................................................................................................................................... 5

    1_2_Strip Morphologies....................................................................................................................... 5

    2_A Design Experiment: AA Terrace Canopy ................................................................................ 10

    2_1_EmTech Construction Projects ............................................................................................... 10

    2_2_Design Agenda .......................................................................................................................... 11

    2_3_System Development ............................................................................................................... 11

    2_4_Design Development: Physical / Digital Experiments of the System........................... 13

    2_5_Detail / Fabrication Technique Elaboration ...................................................................... 15

    2_6_Design Finalization: Output ..................................................................................................... 18

    3_Algorithm.............................................................................................................................................. 19

    3_1_Design Algorithm ........................................................................................................................... 19

    3_2_Fabrication Algorithm................................................................................................................... 30

    4_ Outlook : Further development and other applications ....................................................... 44

    _Bibliography........................................................................................................................................... 49

    _Notes ....................................................................................................................................................... 50

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    5/53

    5

    1_Generatice Algorithms, Concepts and Experiments_3_Strip Morphologies

    1_1_Introduction

    Building Industry always looks for technological advances to speed up the construction process, to

    increase the quality and to implement new features that come up with such technologies in buildings.

    Flat-sheet materials are among those materials that their use largely increases, due to the fact that in

    terms of material and also fabrication necessities they are widely available in the market, and in terms

    of design tendencies they are compatible with the current digital and parametric approaches for

    designer.

    Metal-sheet in different types, shapes, patterns and thicknesses, aluminum and copper sheets, different

    veneer, MDF, HDF and wooden sheets are some of the Flat-sheet materials which are widely available in

    the market. There are composite sheets, plastic, poly carbonated, plexiglass, fiberglass and other typesof artificial materials which are also available in sheets as well. On the other hand, machineries which

    are able to fabricate design products by these sheet materials, like Laser cutters, CNC machines or

    Water-jets, are also become available almost everywhere, and economically reasonable to hire as

    fabrication tools.

    Not only availability of the Flat-sheet materials caused a growth in their usage in the industry, but also

    architects like to design projects with thin and highly flexible envelopes and with controllable flexibility

    to generate free form architecture. This tendency to design free form architecture instrumentalized by

    advanced design methods using different parametric software packages, dominantly affected the new

    age designers. This design tendency highly adapted to the use of flat sheet materials which materialize

    the free form surfaces in digital design space.

    Considering both tendency and availability, Flat-sheet materials seem to be the representative of free-

    form surfaces in digital design which are widely used in current design agendas worldwide.

    1_2_Strip Morphologies

    Strips are long, narrow pieces of thin sheet materials. They can be cut out of a sheet material like pieces

    with small width and long length. Mobius strip is a well-known form of strip. By themselves, strips do

    not usually bear any load, get any desired shape or show noticeable consistency. Strips are light weight

    and easy to shape. In so many cases they seem to be useless, like shredded papers which sound useful

    only for protection of goods in boxes.

    As contemporary architecture looks for new and creative material systems, strips show themselves

    among the catalogue of possible options for more explorations. Looking at different potentials of strips,

    especially considering them in large accumulations, they seem to be interesting for more studies and

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    6/53

    6experiments for use in architecture and built environment. While any one piece of strip by itself might

    be too weak, a crucial assembly and set up of multiple strip geometries might be a solution for some

    design problems of todays multi-purpose architecture.

    Generative Algorithms is a platform for research by design and experiment. Through Generative

    Algorithms, it is aimed to look into such systems more in depth, with especial methods, algorithms andphysical and digital experiments needed to realize some of the potentials of such systems for further

    development and use in design issues.

    Fig.1.1. A simple inter-connected paper strip

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    7/53

    7

    Fig.1.2. Accumulation, interconnection and generally Experiments with paper strips.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    8/53

    8

    Fig.1.3. Accumulation of paper strips.

    Strips have some properties and potentials which worth to have a look briefly before any experiment.

    Properties_Based on their geometry, size and material, they are:

    _light weight, not bear load, flexible shape, have a bit elasticity (based on the thickness), easily bent butwith a degree of bending based on its material, non stiff, not same behavior in all directions

    Potentials_Based on their geometry, size and material, they are:

    _Capable of attachment together and generate pre-tensioned or pre-shaped modules, Capable of

    generating load bearing modules based on their bending properties in certain geometries and

    combinations, Capable of generating 3D geometries based on multiple attachments.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    9/53

    9

    Fig.1.4. A curved surface made by multiple attachments of flat piece paper-strips.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    10/53

    102_A Design Experiment: AA Terrace Canopy

    2_1_EmTech Construction Projects

    Emergent Technologies and Design (EmTech) master program at Architectural Association, (AA) School

    of Architecture, London, is a Research by Design course, each year tests its achievements of its general

    objectives throughout a middle scale, one to one construction project. In 2007 and 2009, the subject

    was a canopy for the AA terrace.

    These projects help students to utilize all their understandings in a real design-fabrication experience,

    work with professionals and collaborate together in large work groups. Projects are collaborated with

    Buro Happold Engineers, London led by Wolf Mangelsdorf.

    New experimentations with material systems, digital design and fabrication techniques, consideration of

    environmental factors, construction necessities and ups and downs are the list of issues should be met

    at the scale of these projects.

    Fig.2.1. AA_EmTech_2007 membrane canopy

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    11/53

    112_2_Design Agenda

    Fig.2.2. AA Terrace (Architectural Association, 36, Bedford Square, London)

    Since the AA Terrace is a public space that all students gather for refresh, for informal meetings or a

    coffee, the idea was to create a canopy to provide a shelter, to create shadow as a factor of comfort,

    channel down the rain, but at the same time, be porous to let the wind go through and does not

    obstruct the wind path and generally convert the terrace into a cozy place.

    The canopy should be light weight to avoid excessive load for the structure of the terrace and limited to

    three columns as already existing connections possibilities. There are fabrication and assembly

    considerations and limitations as well. Most of the fabrication process should be done in the school and

    by the students so it should be considered in the design and its associate fabrication method. It is also

    important to consider that AA Terrace would be closed not more than two days so time limitation for

    assembly is an important factor as well. The budget is also limited and should be controlled.

    2_3_System Development

    In parallel design groups, EmTech students started to develop various material and design systems to

    check their viability. Several systems were developed, evaluated and tested to see how they could be

    possible options for design development. These systems included Aggregate systems, double layered

    grid shell, component based systems and strip morphologies.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    12/53

    12

    Fig.2.3. A system comprised of strips was selected to elaborate. Early tests and mock ups by Ittai Frank

    and Feng Shuai and further developed by, Sara Pezeshk, Sakthivel Ramaswamy and Zubin Khabazi.

    After several tests and discussions, the project made by strips was selected for further development.

    The concept of the system was simple; wooden strips are corrugated and connected together from their

    tip points. When layers of strips mount in top of each other, because of interactions and

    interconnections between individuals, the system behaves in a load bearing way, stands on its own,

    while the desired factors of the canopy are met.

    Fig.2.4. Further development of the system which is comprised of continuous strip systems and their inter

    connections (in this experiment with cables).

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    13/53

    132_4_Design Development: Physical / Digital Experiments of the System

    Fig.2.5. Tests on fabrication techniques through real material experiments to inform the design (by Ittai

    Frank and Feng Shuai).

    In order to develop the design for the specific location (AA Terrace) and based on the material system

    that was chosen (wooden strips), several physical and digital experiments were done through group

    works, each concentrated on one aspect of the project. While one developed the way strips should be

    made, the other worked on the connections and joints; one on the method of fabrication and the other

    one on the digital modeling of the whole system for final fabrication.

    Fig.2.6. One-to-one mock up of a small part of the design (by Ittai Frank and Feng Shuai).

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    14/53

    14

    Fig.2.7. Digital Development of the system

    Fig.2.8. Early design outcomes

    This part of the project focused on physical tests hand in hand with digital ones. At any stage of this part,

    in fact physical tests should inform digital development of the project and its modeling issues, and based

    on the digital modeling and its overall view, again physical tests should be derived to check the

    possibility and viability of each proposal to inform and manipulate the design. From this part of the

    project, the development of the design was accomplished by collaboration with a group of engineers

    from Buro Happold Engineers, London.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    15/53

    15

    2_5_Detail / Fabrication Technique Elaboration

    When the first cycle of design and experiments finished, the design product was visualized and modeled,

    become close to the end product, so it was time to elaborate every detail of the project and decide the

    way the whole system wanted to be fabricated and assembled for final decisions.

    Fig.2.9. Fabrication detail development in AA workshop. Each part of the strip was made by two layers of

    veneers and a layer of glass fiber and resin in between.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    16/53

    16

    Fig.2.10. Strip interconnection test with a real one to one model.

    The group ended up in design and fabrication of almost 5 meter long strips of plywood enriched with a

    layer of resin and fiberglass. Although all pieces cut and provided separately for each strip, they all

    assembled in workshop on a jig together to make one strip parallel to the one which was the mirrored

    strip of the first. All strips are slided into three fins which were connected to the existing columns of the

    terrace. Fins made out of MDF sheets and reinforced in connection parts with steel pieces. The

    fabrication process scheduled to be happen in a week with final two days for assembling the whole

    canopy on-site.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    17/53

    17

    Fig.2.11. Material elasticity test (Tests by Ittai Frank and Feng Shuai at AA_Hook Park workshop).

    Fig.2.12. Structural Detail Development with Buro Happold Engineers.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    18/53

    182_6_Design Finalization: Output

    After several tests, discussions, meetings and evaluations, based on the multiple criteria that should be

    met (environmental, structural, material, ) and various aspects of the projects which realized and

    modeled, structural analysis that agreed by engineers, and environmental analysis that modeled by

    proper softwares, material support, and budget control, the design product finalized. By finalizing the

    design, several files with different formats were created, drawings provided in order to send them all for

    fabrication and manufacturing and final assembly. Material provided and shipped to the Unto This Last

    company to use their CNC machine to cut pieces and then shipped back to the school for final

    fabrication. All wooden strips made one by one in studio, using a big 5 meter jig and clamping all pieces

    onto it and layering with fiber composite. All strips then sanded and varnished and finally transferred to

    the AA terrace in the assembly day. It took two complete days to attach fins to the columns and slide in

    strips, layer by layer to finally screw and fix all parts and finish the fabrication phase again all by EmTech

    students. The AA Terrace Canopy stood up for the End of the year AA Exhibition 2009.

    Fig.2.13. Strip canopy, without fins, final version.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    19/53

    193_Algorithm

    In order to build up the canopy, two main algorithms were needed: Design Algorithm and Fabrication

    Algorithm. The Design Algorithm is the gist of all studies, analysis and observations plus ambitions and

    ideas. Here, the desired canopy based on the developed material systems properties, specifications andlimitations, and by consideration of the specific site of installation is designed and developed. In order to

    fabricate the canopy, the Fabrication Algorithm also developed separately to convert the designed

    product into codes which makes is possible to digitally cut pieces for further fabrication process.

    3_1_Design Algorithm

    Since the algorithm by itself is not complicated, here the concept of algorithm is described, and then a

    brief description of the Grasshopper definition would be followed.

    It is aimed to parametrically design strips which stack in top of each other in a way that corresponds to

    the desired general shape of the canopy (provide shade, channel down the rain, let the wind go throw,

    meet the veneer properties, etc, etc). Here in this algorithm, several couples of Sine-Graph like curves

    generated in order to extrude and create strips. The main point is to posit all these curves in a place that

    makes all strips slightly shifting from each other, making a cantilever structure. The height of corrugation

    of strips is limited to the bending properties of the veneer sheets and the size of their openings has

    relations with environmental factors. Each couple of strips has two mirrored strips and the total numberof strips reflects the weight of the structure and budget!!!

    Fig.3.1. Model of the AA Terrace where the canopy should install. The terrace has three existing columns

    which are going to be used for connections. Two rail curves are drawn as borders of the canopy on

    terrace with an initial curvature to follow.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    20/53

    20

    Fig.3.2. The overall view and flow of information in the Design Algorithm. The algorithm developed in

    two main parts: first generation of strips and then manipulation of them. There are several controlling

    factors, translated into numerical values.

    Fig.3.3. The algorithm is informed by site situations by introducing two rail curves into the canvas.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    21/53

    21

    Fig.3.4. The method of curve generation (base geometry of strips) is to provide groups of points which

    are positioned up and down to create interpolated curves out of them. Since strips are mirrored one after

    each other, there should be two lists of points one to generate a Sine-Graph, and another, a literally

    Minus (-) Sine-Graph.

    Fig.3.5. Two separate lists of points, yet without any support for corrugation.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    22/53

    22

    Fig.3.6. Generation of points in a way that provides the corrugation for the curves and also a section

    deviation of the edge of the strips also implemented in the algorithm. The result is visualized in the

    following illustrations.

    Fig.3.7. Basic curves for strip generation. Here zero and 0.0920 !!! section deviation also visualized to

    show the difference which would result in sharper tip points for strips and potentials to manipulateoverlapping later on.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    23/53

    23

    Fig.3.8. While base curves are ready, it is time to extrude them and generate strips. The angle of

    extrusion corresponds to the rain path in order to prevent drop of water inside the canopy. The strip

    width is set by an average value which is manipulated by a point attractor to maximize the width of

    those strips which go farther.

    Fig.3.9. Extruded strips which are stacked in top of each other, making a porous canopy by continuous

    wavy strips.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    24/53

    24

    Fig.3.10. Further to the initial design, there are some manipulations needed for strips to finalize the

    design product. These include the amount of overlapping between strips, and general canopy rotation

    and movement factors.

    Fig.3.11 The overlapping range of strips which is distributed between them based on their position in the

    canopy is set here. Generally for those strips which are in top of the canopy, strips are wider with more

    space available to slide over each other.

    Fig.3.12. After all manipulations, the resulted

    geometry is ready to finalize the design.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    25/53

    25_ Design Variations :

    Fig.3.13. Design Variations: providing several manipulating factors for the model, it is time to generate

    different results based on various structural, environmental, material and site condition factors and test

    and analyze which one has the optimum quality for the final production.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    26/53

    26_ Analysis :

    Fig.3.14. In this stage, models which were developed with various factors are being tested and analyzed

    to check which one performs in a more desirable way and corresponds to the predefined criteria of

    design for a canopy system. These include structural analysis which was done by Buro Happold Engineers

    and environmental analysis like wind, shadow, and rain as micro climatic factors. The final factors of

    design should be set after all these analyzing processes.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    27/53

    27_ Design Finalization :

    Fig.3.15. Final Algorithm / Product view

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    28/53

    28_ Final Outcome :

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    29/53

    29

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    30/53

    303_2_Fabrication Algorithm

    As discussed earlier, the material system which was developed for the real design product was two

    layers of veneer sheets with a layer of fiber glass in between, to retain the wavy shape and be

    lightweight enough to be acceptable for the structure of the terrace.

    Fig.3.16. The Material system

    developed for canopy using two

    layers of veneer strips, hardened

    with fiber glass in between and

    connected to each other by simply

    screwing together in AA workshop.

    Jheny and Ittai, cutting strips in

    workshop. Zubin, Sakti and Ittai,

    are screwing strips.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    31/53

    31Now in order to fabricate the design product, all needed is to cut strips out of veneer sheets and add the

    fiber glass between layers with the desired form of the strip and mount them in top of each other.

    Fig.3.17. First of all, each strip separated, labeled and then unrolled on a flat sheet.

    Fig.3.18. Since veneer sheets provided for this project had certain size, and strips are much longer than

    each sheet, all strips were divided in order to fit into the sheet boundaries. And because there are two

    layers of each strip, projection doubled, but it is considered that cut lines do not overlap each other.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    32/53

    32

    Fig.3.19. Each part of the divided strip which is

    projected into the sheet boundary, again

    labeled and now is ready to cut. Points for

    screws also added to the piece in order to drill

    through. They used to connect strips together.

    Fig.3.20. The veneer sheets were decided to be cut by CNC machine. The important algorithmic step in

    this part is to provide CNC machine the proper code for cutting. Although CNC machines are equipped

    with software which can convert the geometry into code but there are always mismatch between

    different softwares and this particular piece of design needed customized code as well. Here a specific

    algorithm developed to convert each piece to the code that machine needed with its syntax and

    prerequisites.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    33/53

    33_ Sample code of one piece in plain text to feed the specific CNC machine we worked on:

    G90

    M90

    G71

    M25

    G75

    G00 T06 (T6 - Drill 6mm)

    G97 S16000

    G00 Z-15.

    G00 X1320.91113615407 Y802.699090544653

    M12

    G83 R-12. Z.5 Q30. F33.333

    M22

    G00 X1116.47551205445 Y184.732218768453

    M12

    G83 R-12. Z.5 Q30. F33.333

    M22

    G00 X1321.24050180083 Y907.442130630205

    M12

    G83 R-12. Z.5 Q30. F33.333

    M22

    G00 X1117.94405798136 Y326.197097499249

    M12

    G83 R-12. Z.5 Q30. F33.333

    M22

    Z-15.

    G00 T21 (T21 - 9.52 mm Compression)

    G97 S18000

    G00 Z-6.

    G00 X901.405383689264 Y1075.41494420684

    M12

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1070.84152948897 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1066.26811080545 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1061.69471010118 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1057.12128803136 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1052.54784912739 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1047.97442740396 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1043.40100407348 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1038.82757419349 Z.1 F166.667G01 X901.405383689264 Y1034.2541436389 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1029.68073970358 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1025.10732899766 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1020.53392198443 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1015.96050134597 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1011.38705692534 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1006.81360909516 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y1002.24018478125 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y997.666815805629 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y993.09334712571 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y988.519982321196 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y983.946545180658 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y979.373091506638 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y974.799720749348 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y970.226295512421 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y965.652840891273 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y961.079434356485 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y956.506023410795 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y951.932599507352 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X901.405383689264 Y947.359197829373 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X921.704946569614 Y1066.33913582898 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X918.240147897138 Y1069.32146044257 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X914.462692710226 Y1071.89408450926 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X910.355318909163 Y1073.89401903309 Z.1 F166.667

    G01 X905.960065352433 Y1075.13154984192 Z.1 F166.667

    G00 Z-6.

    M22

    G00 Z-15.

    M22

    (End)

    G00 X2440 Y1220 Z-200

    M02

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    34/53

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    35/53

    35Generally this algorithm should extract coordinates of points and by using the syntax of the machine, tell

    him where to go and drill. For lines it is like a series of points which drill-bit moves between them one

    after each other. It is again worth mentioning that after several tests with the software of the machine,

    it was even the CNC operators choice to work with customized algorithms to provide the code.

    Fig.3.22. This is the sample piece to cut.

    Fig.3.23. In the Fabrication Algorithm, the very first step is to implement constant parts of the code into

    components through their Manage String collection part. These texts are going to be copied inthe final output file.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    36/53

    36

    Fig.3.24. To provide code for drilling holes, these points are introduced to the canvas, their coordinates

    extracted and combined with the predefined syntax as strings.

    Fig.3.25. All parts of the coordinates merged together using concatenate function (&).

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    37/53

    37

    Fig.3.26. Since a constant string should be added after coordinates, first this constant text populated by

    the same amount of data branches that coordinates have, using .

    Fig.3.27. Now both coordinates and constants have the same amount of data branch, they are

    ed together and to provide the list of points for drilling.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    38/53

    38

    Fig.3.28. Constant part again.

    Fig.3.29. In order to cut pieces, several points across cutting curve should be generated and their

    coordinates should be transferred to the machine using predefined syntax.

    Fig.3.30. To provide the code, first point is separated from the others to locate the drill and then tell the

    machine to drill down and then continue drilling/cutting while following the coordinates from the list of

    points. If drill is not located each time, it would cut through the material to locate which is disaster.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    39/53

    39Fig.3.31. All separate pieces of the code are merged together to

    provide one list. All data lists are with same amount of

    data branch otherwise they would not merge together properly.

    Fig.3.32. Using Stream Contents of the , it is possible to save the code as a plain *.txt file

    which is what CNC machine needs. Now it is time to send the file to CNC machine for cutting. In order to

    prevent engraving lot of text on the material, we wrote on them by pencils and after fabrication we

    erased them.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    40/53

    40

    Pieces are cut remainder of the sheet should be stuffed somewhere !!!

    Guys are preparing pieces to make strips on the jig a tricky dirty business !!!

    Strips became ready and lifted up from the basement with Modern Technologies !!!

    Everything is ready on the AA terrace, time for assembly !!!

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    41/53

    41

    Me and Ittai discussing I dont know what !!!

    Mike checks how to solve little mismatches and Michael controls the orientation of canopy !!!

    Guys keep screwing . And keep screwing !!!

    AA Terrace in mess but midnight time finally signs of happiness !!!

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    42/53

    42

    And finally AA Terrace Canopy !!!!!

    AA Terrace _ life under Emtech canopy

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    43/53

    43

    AA Terrace canopy

    AA Terrace Canopy was designed, fabricated and assembled by AA_Emtech 08-09 students while

    generally guided by course directors and studio masters Michael Weinstock, Michael Hensel, Achim

    Menges and Wolf Mangelsdorf (From Buro Happold Eng.) in collaboration with other EmTech Tutors,

    AA Staff and general support of AA Director, Brett Steel.

    _EmTech Students (2008):

    Selim Bayer, Stephanie Chaltiel, Kunkun Chen, Shuai Feng, Ittai Frank, Utssav Gupta, Konstantinos

    Karatzas, Zubin Mohamad Khabazi, Tamara Lavrovskaya, Mohammed Makki, Maria Mingallon, Michel

    Moukarzel, Sara Pezeshk, Sakthivel Ramaswamy, Jheny Nieto Ropero, Revano Satria, Kyle Schertzing,

    Pavlos Schizas, Xia Su, Ioanna Symeonidou.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    44/53

    444_ Outlook : Further development and other applications

    In order to develop a system for architectural design there are always different approaches available. It

    is important to look at the potentials, combine ideas and not to stock in any stage of design or research.

    While the AA-Canopy project utilized corrugated wooden strips, here as an example, the idea of stripmorphologies mixed with a tube assembly system, and a free-form surface covered by small scale tubes

    which are aimed to fabricate from strips somehow.

    Fig.4.1. Initial surface and two options of modelling with tubes.

    Fig.4.2. Tublar free-form surface.

    Fig.4.3. Observation of deformations of cells (tubes) and implementation of controlling factors inside the

    algorithms in order to prevent those deformations which might cause damage and collapse of the

    system.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    45/53

    45

    Fig.4.4. Paper-cut simply fabricated model to check the process viability.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    46/53

    46

    Fig.4.5. Physical model made by simple paper strips. Each cell is a differentiated tube which is labeled

    and assembled in its exact position. The general form corresponds to the form of generic NURBS surface

    as the input of the algorithm but cells are all made by paper strips.

    Strip Morphologies / Systems as very lightweight structures seem to be useful in design for building

    industry. Using flat sheet materials which are widely used in contemporary architecture is a great

    potential since design and fabrication of these sheet materials are becoming common and machines

    available in the industry and softwares and plug-ins in digital world are pushing it even more. Although

    this paper example here is very simple in design and fabrication, here the idea is to see how different

    concepts and techniques could be combined to generate new design systems.

    Although the current available catalogue of parametric and digital design tools, Plug-ins, Add-ons,

    Scripts, etc, are growing so fast and this development of digital tools enriches architectural design with

    so many productive tools, it is yet the duty of researchers and designers to work parallel on material /

    physical systems and develop the way digital and physical world should meet to actually use all these

    potentials and bond digital design tools and techniques with possible physical material systems; The task

    that is in the front line of experiments and research-by-designs of the GENERATIVE ALGORITHMS in the

    MORPHOGENESISM experimental studio of architecture.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    47/53

    47

    Fig.4.6. Final Assembled model.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    48/53

    48

    Fig.4.7. Tube assemblies made by strips.

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    49/53

    49_Bibliography

    1. Michael Hensel, Achim Menges: Morpho-Ecologies, Architectural Association, 2008

    2. Helmut Pottman, Andreas Asperl, Michael Hofer, Axel Kilian: Architectural Geometry, Bently Institute

    Press, 2007.

    3. Mark De Berg, Marc Van Kreveld, Mark Overmars: Computational Geometry, Springer, 2000.

    4. Zubin Khabazi: Generative Algorithms (Using Grasshopper), On-line publication by

    www.Grasshopper3d.com, 2010.

    5. Hensel, Michael and Menges, Achim and Weinstock, Michael, (Editors), 2004: Emergence,

    Morphogenetic Design Strategies, Architectural Design (AD) Journal of Architecture, Wiley Academy,

    London.

    6. Hensel, Michael and Menges, Achim and Weinstock, Michael, (Editors), 2006: Techniques and

    Technologies in Morphogenetic Design, Architectural Design (AD) Journal of Architecture, Wiley

    Academy, London.

    7. Hensel, Michael and Menges, Achim and Weinstock, Michael, (Editors), 2008: Versatility and Vicissitude,

    Architectural Design (AD) Journal of Architecture, Wiley Academy, London.

    http://www.grasshopper3d.com/http://www.grasshopper3d.com/
  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    50/53

  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    51/53

    51

    Generative Algorithms_Concepts and Experiments_Weaving

    From the Introduction of the book: In this series, Generative Algorithms, Concepts and Experiments, I am

    trying to search for concepts and methods, combine physical and digital experiments on topics that seemGenerative as prototypes for possible applications in architecture, to extend the catalogue of available

    systems and methods in design. I hope these experiments benefit your design issues or line of research, as

    mine.

    The first one of the series was focused on the Weaving structures and two main algorithms developed

    through experiments. First one was a simple weaving pattern called simple Loom while in the second

    experiment, a more advanced and complex pattern system of fabrics called Jacquard, developed

    through experiments again, and the algorithm called Jacquard Loom.

    The book is available to download as an on-line publication (PDF format) at www.morphogenesism.com in

    the Grasshopper tutorial section and in Grasshopper website.

    http://www.morphogenesism.com/http://www.morphogenesism.com/
  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    52/53

    52

    Generative Algorithms_Concepts and Experiments_Porous Shell

    Second of the series, Porous Shell explores the development of a shell system based on a formation

    process of a shell of a marine micro-organism called Radiolaria. After careful study of the shell of the

    organism from different aspects like geometry, topology, formation process, etc, algorithmic methods

    developed in order to design such shells and later on fabricate the shell from flat sheet materials.

    It is believed that research, design and development of systems and ideas to be generative for the design

    of future architecture is an important task for current researches which MORPHOGENESISM carries on in its

    very core of systemic progress of its agenda.

    Each book of Generative Algorithms explores some of the techniques needed for the development of

    parametric design in Grasshopper which corresponds to the system which is developed on that specific

    research. The book is available to download as an on-line publication (PDF format) at

    www.morphogenesism.com in the Grasshopper tutorial section and in Grasshopper website.

    http://www.morphogenesism.com/http://www.morphogenesism.com/
  • 7/27/2019 Generative+Algorithms CaE Strip+Morphologies

    53/53

    Generative Algorithms

    Concepts and Experiments

    3 _ Strip Morphologies

    By

    Zubin Khabazi

    www.MORPHOGENESISM.com

    http://www.morphogenesism.com/http://www.morphogenesism.com/