Parametric Design Solutions

20th May 2019

Duncan Reed, Digital Construction Process Manager, Trimble Solutions (UK) Ltd

Trimble Snapshot

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4

Parametric Design ApplicationsRhino > Grasshopper > Tekla Structures

NURBS - Non-uniform rational basis spline - is a mathematical modelcommonly used in computer graphics for generating and representingcurves and surfaces. It offers great flexibility and precision for handlingboth analytic (surfaces defined by common mathematical formulae)and modelled shapes.

The software products

Rhinoceros is a free form surfacemodeller that utilisesthe NURBS mathematical model.Rhinoceros' applicationarchitecture and open SDK makesit modular and enables the user tocustomise the interface and createcustom commands and menus.

Grasshopper® is a graphicalalgorithm editor tightly integratedwith Rhino’s 3-D modelling tools.Unlike RhinoScript, Grasshopperrequires no knowledge ofprogramming or scripting, but stillallows designers to build formgenerators from the simple to theawe-inspiring.

Tekla Structures is constructionmodelling software that workswith all materials and the mostcomplex structures.Models created contain accurate,reliable and detailed informationfor accurate ways of working;streamlining collaborationbetween all parties.

Input Calculations Output

The software process

Working parametrically - Rhino

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BFEDPPxrY9I&t=176s

Working parametrically - Grasshopper

Working parametrically – linking the two

Working parametrically – exporting to Tekla

Working parametrically – import from Excel

Working parametrically – and bi-directionally

Summary – the benefits

The benefits

§ For structural engineer– To eliminate manual processes so you can work more efficiently and

be more productive

§ For architects– The ability to push the boundaries of design and collaboration

between all project stakeholders; and doing this earlier in theprocess

The benefitsParametric design linked with parametric modelling -§ Simplifies modelling complicated geometry§ Enables fast structural form iterations and design option investigations§ Significantly increases productivity by reducing the time it takes to modify designs§ Brings significant efficiency gains and benefits to the design of complex structures§ Encourages and enables collaboration in the design process with better visualisation

and simulation across disciplines§ Allows you to simultaneously create calculations and see them populate the model in

real-time§ Allows you to design repetitive geometries with less work, such as similar

connections or geometries that follow a new alignment§ Is a step toward generative design which combines artificial intelligence with

parametric BIM

Roundtable DiscussionsParametric design linked with parametric modelling -§ How can parametric design aide your business to reduce the time

it takes to modify designs?§ Can you see gains and benefits to the design of (complex)

structures?§ How can these processes encourages and enables collaboration in

the design process with better visualisation and simulation acrossdisciplines?

§ Do you see benefits for repetitive design work such as similarconnections or geometries that follow a new alignment?

§ Do you see this as the next step in design?

Thank You

E: duncan.reed@trimble.comM: +44 (0) 7734 740240T: @djhreed67