Interactive conceptual design of structural forms

Summary

The class exposes students to the geometric design of material efficient architectural structures. The focus is placed on the conceptual exploration of a rich, diverse solution set. Hand-controlled methods and parametric tools are used, as well as strategies to rapidly take key decisions.

Content

Keywords

• Architectural structures
• Interactive conceptual design
• Force shaping
• Ressource-efficiency
• Parametric design

Learning Prerequisites

Required courses

EPFL bachelor classes on statics, structural design or equivalent.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, the student must be able to:

• Choose a structural system that is relevant to given architectural, technical and environmental contexts
• Sketch a wide variety of structural forms that originally address specific issues
• Infer the geometric degrees of freedom in a given structural typology
• Use a computational tool for graphical parameterization
• Identify structural solutions that require less material for construction
• Modify a structural solution to enhance its mechanical behavior

Transversal skills

• Use a work methodology appropriate to the task.
• Communicate effectively with professionals from other disciplines.
• Plan and carry out activities in a way which makes optimal use of available time and other resources.
• Set objectives and design an action plan to reach those objectives.

Teaching methods

• Lectures on board or slides
• Discussions based on readings
• Theoretical and hands-on exercises, in class and homework assignments

Expected student activities

Regular work throughout the full semester and interaction in the class room.

Assessment methods

The class is punctuated by three assignments (15%) and one conceptual design project (35%). The final oral exam is worth the remaining 20%.

Resources

Bibliography

Form and Forces / Allen & Zalewski

Ressources en bibliothèque

• Form and forces / Allen & Zalewski

Notes/Handbook

Slides and readings will be published on Moodle.

Moodle Link

• https://go.epfl.ch/AR-483

Prerequisite for

Projet de master