Parametric design

Fiction or reality? Fiction must be a credible lie. When creativity and knowledge come together, these fictional realities can be created. In nature there are thousands of references that seem idyllic and unreal. Technology brings us closer to nature. How could this have happened?

Parametric design: the creation of shapes through parameters that determine different characteristics of said shape. They can be easily modified thanks to computer programs. Thus, obtaining incredible creations often associated with nature.

Explain: let's imagine the repeat shape of a honeycomb. It is an hexagon, inscribed or circumscribed in a circle. One parameter would be the radius, as the radius varies, the size varies in the plane. Now let's add the parameter "z" let's say it is the height and add the thickness. These three parameters modify the shape of the hexagon. If you have mentally been able to enlarge the hexagon as in a fairground mirror (scale in all its parameters) I think you have understood. Now imagine your modified honeycomb surrounding the surface of a tree like a bark. This operation is the adaptive parametric system. It is widely used in architecture for mesh facades etc. A parametric mesh that adapts to any surface. Simple!

The computer programs for 3d automate processes that help us create and build new shapes that were previously impossible. It allows us to relate geometry and mathematics in an easy way to create infinite possibilities until you find the "perfect" design. These modern programs optimize calculations of structures and materials. For example, Revit is a program that not only helps in the design and visualization process, but you can generate all the costs and resources you need to build it. Unfortunately, not all providers have a BIM system.

In 2005 Santiago Calatrava, Valencian architect, civil engineer and sculptor designed the “Turning Torso”. A skyscraper that currently defines the urban profile of the city of Malmö in Sweden. The building is an exercise in abstraction of the human torso by twisting. This design certainly opened a door to parametric architecture. The nine modules that make up the spine rotate in a concrete core up to 90 °. Were used, 64 tons of steel and concrete, to build this scandinavian landmark. Despite having been calculated and optimized, the building suffered additional costs due to different reasons, among them the height of the building and inclement weather.

Now that we can get out of the boxes and the stagnant classicism, let's use the tools that we have available  for visualization, calculation and optimization and let's make it different, think, draw, design, model, render, calculate, develop and create the neofuture.

     Editor: Drewry Cooper

 

Hexagons, honeycomb.


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