Structural Post-optimisation of a computationally designed Plywood Gridshell

Computational design is being commonly used for the exploration of new geometries and systemsin architecture. Complex parametric definitions allow not only spatial shaping but also theintegration of material simulation and afterwards robotic fabrication. Nevertheless a structurally-efficient design will be achieved only when the load-bearing behaviour of the systems areconsidered. In this paper, the role of structural analysis and its integration during the design processof a computationally-designed plywood gridshell (Dermoid) are described. By means of FE-Modelling the load-bearing capacity of the gridshell was calculated and the influence of diversegeometric parameters were analysed. The iterative exchange and adaptation of information in thedesign and structural models were essential