Pioneer architects in physical (analog) form finding techniques like Frei Otto and Gaudí, used the rules of physics to their advantage to integrate structural systems into architectural proposals. With the technologies at hand today this is possible through digital simulations that allow the user to design in a more intuitive manner.

This workshop will explore the possibilities of conceptual design using real world physical behavior, through the use of the grasshopper plugin Kangaroo, by David Piker. As well, students will learn the use of meshing tools to optimize their designs for most accurate simulations. We will play with the rules of physics by understanding the basic concepts of particles (points), springs (lines) and forces (vectors) in a digital environment (Rhinoceros). This conceptual simplicity will allow us to apply and manipulate the physics simulations in a very direct and playful way.

We will use real case studies to create our own digital tools that will help us develop virtual form finding systems. Using the different Kangaroo goals we will be able to simulate in real time concepts such as: tensile relaxation, chain models, circle packing and shell structures.