Subdivision Surfaces for Integrated Design, Analysis and Optimisation

The research described in this paper combines simple fast analysis and optimisation routines with in-house subdivision surface based parametric modelling software. The aim is to demonstrate a new collaborative environment in which engineers and architects can work closely together, and get instant feedback on the effects of design decisions in terms of structural and environmental performance. A real-life case study project, the design of an ETFE cushion-clad dome structure as an extension to the Aarhus Botanical Garden in Denmark, is used to demonstrate the benefits of adopting a subdivision surface based concurrent design approach in the construction industry.