Quadrilateral panelization of freeform surface structures

摘要

Freeform surfaces need to be discretized into manageable sized panels so that the surface can be fabricated in smaller pieces that are then assembled on site. This discretization process comprises numerous challenges; including not only the aesthetic and spatial concerns, but also the structural and constructional needs. The mesh generated has to fit to the surface, without distorting the form; meanwhile the panels have to preserve their planarity in order to prevent any brittle failure due to warping. This study proposes a unique approach to quadrilateral discretization by incorporating the form, material capacities and fabrication challenges in order to obtain a structure that can be realized and constructed.