Linking architectural models to structural analyses can be demanding and time-consuming, especially when the architectural models cannot be accurately analysed using readily available one- or two-dimensional finite elements. This paper presents a tool for finite element analysis using solid elements developed as a plugin for Grasshopper 3D® that enables designers to include analyses of complex objects within the same software as the design exploration. A benchmark using the tool on a cantilever beam is compared with both ANSYS® and the theoretical solution, before the versatility of the tool is demonstrated by analyzing the metal part in timber gridshell nodes. The results were satisfying and the tool can prove especially useful for early phase design and collaboration between diciplines.
Gridshell nodes are key elements regarding structural performance, visual appearance and assembly of any gridshell that have been given little attention in recent research. This paper explores aluminium as a material for timber gridshell nodes. First, existing gridshell nodes are categorised regarding bulk materials, gripper types and connection methods and based on this, a set of novel node principles in aluminium are deducted and proposed for a timber gridshell on the geometry of the British Museum Great Court. A finite element analysis is done on the proposals to increase the understanding of the node principles’ structural behaviour and feasibility. Together, the set of node principles, their evaluation and the utilised procedure can provide new options in the future design of gridshells and gridshell nodes.
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