Adaptive Meshing for Bi-directional Information Flows: A Multi-Scale Approach to Integrating Feedback between Design, Simulation, and Fabrication

This paper describes a mesh-based modelling approach that supports the multiscale design of a panelised, thin-skinned metal structure. The term multi-scale refers to the decomposition of a design modelling problem into distinct but interdependent models associated with particular scales, and the transfer of information between these models. They are applied in this architectural context as a means to manage complex information flows between scales. We describe information flows between the scales of structure, panel element, and material via two mesh-based approaches. The first approach demonstrates the use of adaptive meshing to efficiently sequentially increase resolution to support structural analysis, panelisation, local geometric formation, connectivity, and the calculation of forming strains and material thinning. A second approach shows how dynamically coupling adaptive meshing with a tree structure supports efficient refinement and coarsening of information. The modelling approaches are substantiated through the production of structures and prototypes.