Fabricating Complexity - A Performance Based Methodology through Parametric Optimization

Abstract:

This paper discusses the integration of advanced computational design and digital fabrication methods through the project Light-Vault, which addresses the development and execution of complex designs resulting in a performance based approach through optimization. The project shows the development of a vault which is made through an assemblage of customized multiple components, which are parametrically controlled and evaluated with respect to light and weight. Due to influence of multiple fitness parameters a genetic algorithm is created and new methodology is developed for the evolution of the form. Algorithms are developed to ensure design thinking and fabrication procedures are simultaneously developed in a non-linear, parallel performance based process. This logical approach investigates the various possibilities and optimizes the development and fabrication of ruled surfaces in the interior volume of the component using digital methods and translation of the form into reality using industrial robots for fabrication. In parallel, the project explores the potential of robotic technology and introduces innovations of personalized robotic tools, in generating quick shaping volumes through this process. The developed methodology is tested in creating multiple units of the vault which are analyzed against various evaluation criteria. This cumulative cohesive process between advanced digital and physical computation methods is translated through a full-scale built pavilion.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volumes 889-890)
• Pages: 1240-1245
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.889-890.1240
• Online since: February 2014
• Authors: Phillip F Yuan, Tong Xiao, Pradeep Devadass
• Keywords: Genetic Algorithm (GA), Light-Vault, Performance Based Optimization, Robotic Fabrication Technology, Ruled Surfaces

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