Parametric modeling and evolutionary analysis allow for rapid iteration and optimization of designs. Parameters can define geometric properties and be linked to analysis to automatically evaluate designs. This allows exploration of many design options to find the best solution. Examples shown include a snowflake structure where the dome geometry was optimized through structural analysis in Grasshopper. A stadium project demonstrated using parameters to accurately place members and apply rotations based on building planes. Key benefits are closer integration of architecture and structure, increased options evaluation, and efficient form finding.

1. Parametric
Modelling and
Evolutionary
Analysis
Nathan Luke
Mark Sheldon

2. 2
The Journey

3. 3
Advances in design/drafting
Paper
CAD
3D Modelling
The Evolutionary Leap!
Advances in engineering
Hand computations
2D Computer analysis
3D Computer Analysis
Generally
exclusive
2 to 3
Iterations
Rapid evolutionary analysis and Parametric Modelling

4. 4
Example of Parametric Modelling
Parameters
Parametric Model Geometry
Height(1)
Diameter (5)
No.ofLevels(2)
Rotation (3)
Verticals (4)

5. 5
Parametric Modelling and The Design Team
Architectural
Geometry
Analysis
Parameters
1
2
3
Structural
Analysis
Parameters
Structural
ESD
Other
Structural
Geometry
Add Structural
Geometry
Parameters
Co-ordination
Materials
Beam Sizes
Truss Depths
Beam Layouts

6. 6
+
+
The Tools
• Integration with an array of structural
analysis programs through Geometry
Gym add-ons
• Large community support and backing
• Structural analysis available within
grasshopper (through) add-ons
• Low cost
• Directly links to Revit and Robot
structural analysis
• Potential for full BIM parametric
modelling

7. 7
The Tools
• Uses data keys to transfer
between different interfaces
• Create separate projects
• Modify geometric data from
the internet browser
• Set permissions
• Send specific or all data
keys to other parties
External Design Team

8. 8
What is evolutionary analysis?
Geometry Analysis
Parameters
1
2
3
Evolutionary solvers
Galapagos / Octopus
fitness outputs A, B, C to
optimise
A
B
C
Ability to automatically change
parameters to find best solution
Choose one or more
inputs to optimise
Choose which parameters to
change
Structural
Design
ESD etc

9. 9
Evolutionary Design Optimisation - Example

10. 10
Evolutionary Optimisation
Form Finding
Video above shows real-time form finding of the plan shape
using Rhino Vault.

11. 11
Case Study – IFC Snow Flake
• Christmas decoration situated in the IFC Mall, Hong Kong
• Temporary structure
• Steel podium structure to create upper podium and support for dome
• Self supporting dome made only of Lexan sheet - No Support Structure
Lexan SheetFinished Product

12. 12
Case Study – IFC Snow Flake
Initial form-finding
Architects Rhino Model Model in Analysis Program – With
uniform loading
Easily extract
surface outer lines
and import into
Modelling
Program

13. 13
Case Study – IFC Snow Flake

14. 14
Case Study - IFC Snow Flake
Geometry
Inputs – From
Rhino
Plate Material
Inputs
Beam Material
Inputs
Assigning
plate property
Output mesh
Beam Material
Inputs
Output Beam
Elements
Grasshopper Interface
Using Geometry Gym Plug-in
STRAND7
Align beam to
connecting
plates

15. 15
Case Study - IFC Snow Flake
Strand 7 Model – Exported from
Rhino/Grassshopper
FEA Model – Close Up
Beam
Elements
Panel
Elements

16. 16
Case Study - Devonport
Design Competition
Preliminary
Design
Final
Documentation

17. 17
Case Study - Devonport
• Roof structure
modelled in Rhino
using Grasshopper
from architect
surface model.
• Roof structure
exported to Revit for
documentation.
Design Competition
Preliminary
Design
Final
Documentation
Benefit
• Structure was easily
adjusted as architect
made alterations to
surface model.
Outcome
• A coordinated roof
structure model for
presentations by the
architect.
• Roof structure
exported to
SpaceGass for
design.
Benefit
• Quick process
considering complex
geometry.
Outcome
• A coordinated
presentation model
and structural model.
Benefit
• Quick process with
certainty that
structure is modelled
in correct location.
Outcome
• A coordinated
structural model and
Revit model.

18. 18
Case Study – Simonds Stadium
Preliminary Form

19. 19
Case Study – Simonds Stadium

20. 20
Simonds Stadium – Detailed Design
• Accuracy of member
placement
• Python Scripting to apply
rotation of members based on
each individual plane

21. 21
Simonds Stadium – Detailed Design
Documentation
Modelling

22. 22
(Some) Advantages of Parametric Design
Closer Integration and co-
ordination between
Architecture and Structure
Aligning the use of similar
programs (Rhino and Revit)
Increased optioneering
Geometry rationalisation for
fabrication and installation
Form Finding
Fast and efficient solution
finding

23. 23
Any questions, Lets Discuss….
Nathan Luke
Structural Engineer
Buildings Group
Nathan.luke@aurecongroup.com
Mark Sheldon
Technical Director
Buildings Group
Mark.Sheldon@aurecongroup.com
Peter Murenu
Technical Director
Buildings Group
Mark.Sheldon@aurecongroup.com