Conformal Principal-Asymptotic Elastic Gridshells: Parametric Design and Modular Construction

Spatial gridshells are characterized by large spans, expansive interior spaces, structural efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Among these, elastic gridshells are particularly noteworthy as they utilize the elastic deformation of components to create freeform surfaces. However, current approaches to modular design of elastic gridshells predominantly rely on optimization methods, which are often tricky to find initial geometry, inefficient, and impractical for real-world design scenarios. This work introduces an algorithmic design method based on the Conformal Principal-Asymptotic (CPA) network on minimal surfaces (MS), enabling efficient parametric design and modular construction of elastic gridshells. The algorithm provides a versatile design space, of various shapes for the shells design, and various configurations and sections for the beams design. As well as, precise (geometry-based) assembly-stress analysis and quantitative performance evaluation for architectural applications. Finally, an example of the algorithm's application to a real construction project is provided, demonstrating its effectiveness and ease of use for designers.