Multi-Scalar Modelling for Free-form Timber Structures

This paper describes a new conceptual and computational framework that employs Multi-Scalar Modelling techniques (Weinan [22]) in order to overcome the problem of big data management and to enable a more integrative digital workflow during the geometrical discretization of spatial structures.The research explores the design probe of free-form structures composed of glue-laminated timber beams and looks at the different types of data that need to be shared among each discipline and across multiple scales from which different levels of resolution can be defined. A particular focus lies in the segmentation strategy of glue-laminated timber structures that depend on structural requirements and the different types of constraints related to fabrication, transportation and assembly. Where current working practices decouple segmentation processes within a discrete digital workflow, this research aims to integrate and negotiate the different parameters that drive the same segmentation strategy within a continuous environment. The research is developed in close collaboration with two industry partners – Buro Happold and DesignToProduction – and focuses on the implementation of Multi-Scalar Modelling concepts and techniques as a means to work within a continuous design environment in which an abstract network of timber beams is iteratively updated through geometrical and structural optimizations at different levels of resolution.