International Journal of Architectural Computing

This article presents a framework for the design process of structural systems based on the notion of topological interlocking. A new design method and a computational tool for generating valid architectural topological interlocking geometries are discussed. In the heart of the method are an algorithm for automatically generating valid two-dimensional patterns and a set of procedures for creating several types of volumetric blocks based on the two-dimensional patterns. Additionally, the computational tool can convert custom sets of closed planar curves into structural elements based on the topological interlocking principle. The method is examined in a case study of a building floor. The article concludes with discussions on the potential advantages of using the method for architectural design, as well as on challenging aspects of further development of this method toward implementation in practice.

The article brings together the subjects of briefing and Building Information Modelling. It considers the brief as information source for Building Information Modelling and Building Information Modelling as an environment for automating brief-related analysis and guidance. The approach is characterized by feedforward and feedback, incorporation of constraints from the brief in Building Information Modelling, connection of briefing goals to performance analysis and correlation of requirements in the brief to Building Information Modelling object properties and relations. To test the approach, 10 briefs are parsed into goals, constraints and requirements, which are then considered for integration in Building Information Modelling. As the majority of these items can become part of a model and subject to automated analyses, integration of briefing in Building Information Modelling is proposed as a viable option that can improve design and briefing performance but also signals significant changes to briefing.

Design studies are being done on contemporary master-plans which may be applied in many locations worldwide. Advances in information technology are becoming the base model of design studies, and these may be more effective than the efforts of humans in the field of architecture and urban design. However, urban morphology variables and constants must be considered while designing contemporary master-plans in the existing built environment. The aims of this study were to extend the use of computer software for different applications and to make a topological work in the regional context. Accordingly, a case study was made using the nCloth simulation tools to create non-Euclidean forms while protecting the road system, which is one of the constant parameters of urban morphology in the built environment.

The aim of this article is to introduce a bottom-up methodology for the modelling of free-form shapes in architecture that meet fabrication constraints. To this day, two frameworks are commonly used for surface modelling in architecture: non-uniform rational basis spline modelling and mesh-based approaches. The authors propose an alternative framework called generalised cyclidic nets that automatically yield optimal geometrical properties for the envelope and the structural layout, like the covering with planar quadrilaterals or hexagons. This framework uses a base circular mesh and Dupin cyclides, which are natural objects of the geometry of circles in space, also known as Möbius geometry. This article illustrates how complex curved shapes can be generated from generalised cyclidic nets. It addresses the extension of cyclidic nets to arbitrary topologies with the implementation of a ‘hole-filling’ strategy and also demonstrates that this framework gives a simple method to generate corrugated shells.

Bamboo is a construction material that is renewable, environmentally friendly and widely available. It has long been used in various projects, ranging from temporary, easily assembled and rectilinear structures to complex freeform pavilions. Design with bamboo has never been easy to architects and engineers due to its irregular shape and round section. This prompts the need to develop a new design process that can accommodate those properties that hinder bamboo to be used by designers. In this article, we take a close look at freeform structure design and specifically demonstrate how systematically and algorithmically parametric modelling can be used to tackle bamboo material irregularities and bamboo jointing challenges. A two-stage optimization process is proposed to support a fabricable freeform structure design through encoding material properties and freeform shape optimization. The approach approximates the given freeform shape using a finite set of unique bamboo elements while maintaining the aesthetic design intention. By limiting the number of bamboo elements, it will provide insight to both designers and engineers on the efficiency and cost benefits of producing required structure elements for the final assembly.