MAPPING TWO-WAY GRIDS ONTO FREE-FORM SURFACES

This paper presents a novel approach for the synthesis of single-layer grid structures, with a node connectivity of four, on free-form surfaces. Iterative structural analyses are used to make a more informed selection of the geometry of the grid structure. Central to this proposed approach is the parameterisation of the grid structure in terms of rod angles and spacing which, along with a process of homogenisation, facilitates multiobjective optimisation. This approach is demonstrated by taking an example free-form dome surface and evolving a set of grid designs, in order to minimize deflection under snow load and maximise buckling load- performance enhancements of 35-45% are achieved over 100 generations. A trade-off curve of potential solutions is generated from which a final grid structure can be chosen by the designer.