4.491: Special Problems in Building Technology
Form-Finding and Structural Optimization: Gaudi Workshop

Organizer:

Prof. John Ochsendorf (Architecture)

Co-Instructors:

Dr. Barb Cutler (Computer Science)
Axel Kilian (Architecture)
Simon Greenwold (MathWorks)
Prof. Erik Demaine (Computer Science)
Martin Demaine (Computer Science)
Christine Walker, TA (Architecture)

This research workshop will explore three-dimensional problems in the static equilibrium of structural systems. Through an interdisciplinary collaboration between computer science and architecture, we will develop design tools for determining the form of three-dimensional structural systems under a variety of loads. The goal of the workshop is to develop real-time design and analysis tools which will be useful to architects and engineers in the form-finding of efficient three-dimensional structural systems. Research topics include, but are not limited to: mesh generation; procedural methods for creating structural elements; physical simulation procedures; interactive design tools; structural analysis; computer graphics; and mathematics of nodal systems. Students will gain experience with basic programming through a series of exercises leading up to a final project.

Students will be evaluated based on attendance, weekly assignments, research presentations, and the completion of a final project. Readings to be distributed.

Meeting time: Monday, 3-5 PM, MIT Room 4-261

Credit: 9 units

Prerequisites: None, permission required of instructor to enroll

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