Expanding and Customising Algorithms

Node Path Diagram: Algorithmic Design: Hyperelastic O-Ring

Expanding and Customising

Algorithms Task 2

Group 14 Design Principles and Methods III May 2013

Cardiff University Welsh School of Architecture Arief Afandi Thomas Wakeman Eric Wong

The project stemmed from the idea that a mathematical sequence could be used to generate architectural forms. In the previous investigation, studying Parametric Solar Architecture, this demonstrated the use of the genetic algorithm in the design of solar roof systems. Researching solar arrays demonstrated how parabolic designs can be extremely powerful solar collectors, as well as providing a rational and efficient layout for arrays of standard solar panels.

KHNP Headquarters | H Architecture - Arch2O. www.arch2o.com

Solar Parabolic Dish intensifier www.thermaxindia.com

The second objective was to use the Fibonacci principle as an algorithmic basis for displacing objects along a circular path using a parametric script. This script would enable the user to progressively displace tall objects e.g. cylinders or panels as the displacement along a path increases. In an architectural application, this could be used to create stepped architectures or designs which progressively increase in height as efficiently as possible. There is also the potential to apply additional constraints and combine this with algorithms to generate solar parametric architecture. The result could be a form which progressively increases in height so as to generate an exponential array, so that a variable such as surface area could increase in a way that the sum of parts is exactly the exponent of an individual object. For example, to generate a solar array of objects e.g. parabolic cylinders which progressively increase in height along a set path, this algorithm could be used to ensure that no face is overshadowed by its predecessor.

Concentrated Solar Power:Parabolic Dish www.mtholyoke.edu

A sustainable solar stove www.roosbros.com

Field of solar dishes arranged into parabolic solar intensifier, toward a central generator, producing extremely high levels of useful energy.

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Original (Source) Scripts: The script generated for a Fibonacci array started from two simple scripts: 1) The Circle Array Command Script: A simple script to generate an array of objects based around a central node.

(Obtained from scripts/circle-array)

http://www.scriptspot.com/3ds-max/

angle specified for rotation (360)/ number of nodes (c) derives spacing along spline path

duplicates objects as copy, reference or instance around path at set node distance

2) Basic Fibonacci Sequence: A simple script to generate a linear array of bars, increasing in height according to the Fibonacci objects based around a central node.

Fibonacci series 1,1,3,5,8,13,21...

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3) Expanded and Customised Script The new script borrows from both original scripts to rotate the Fibonacci sequence as an array around a circular path. The result is a parabolic

add new button

boxes will array in circular path around the first box

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