Alessandro Kerr

Link to Design Journal
Alessandro Kerr
Journal Entry For
Module 3 - Give Me Shelter
ACC Folder Link
https://acc.autodesk.com/docs/files/projects/7a6d9404-5c50-4d49-acbd-cf67d7302936?folderUrn=urn%3Aadsk.wipprod%3Afs.folder%3Aco.6fIl7o55QxWQCgLHlmzfRg&viewModel=detail&moduleId=folders

Modelling Geometry

The model I created can be changed parametrically in most dimensions. I decided to create a two-sided structure, that could practically be used as a bus shelter. If it was located at a bus station with multiple bays, both sides could serve as shelters for adjacent bus stops. Conversely, one side could be altered to serve as covered seating for a cafe, or a covered path between buildings. The customizable, and multi-purpose aspect of my design is what makes it unique. This submission is for 3 units.

Figure 1: Two-sided bus shelter model geometry
Figure 1: Two-sided bus shelter model geometry
Figure 2: Front View of Model
Figure 2: Front View of Model
Figure 3: Profile View of Model (showing Sin Wave)
Figure 3: Profile View of Model (showing Sin Wave)
Figure 4: Potential Alternate Configuration
Figure 4: Potential Alternate Configuration

Modelling Approach

My modelling approach consisted of several steps that allow the design to the parametrically changed in most dimensions. The following steps were taken during the modelling:

  1. Three lines were defined. The first was a straight line at the origin, with the ability to change the length (which eventually became the length of the structure). The second line was a y-translation of the first line, which could be flexed to change the width of the structure. Lastly, the third line consisted of a y- and z-translation — both of which could be dynamically changed. See Figures 6-8 below.
  2. From here, the top line was replaced with a sin curve. I considered changing other lines with nurbs/sin curves, but I figured a flat roof edge was best for creating even shadows and protection from the elements. The number of curves and amplitude could be changed dynamically. See Figure 9 below.
  3. Each curve was then split into a number of placement points — where the number of divisions could be changed dynamically. From here, the list was transposed and the ribs were divided into points (which represented the number of panel points on each rib). See Figure 10 & 11.
  4. The ‘Quads from Rectangular Grids’ package was utilised to split the rib/main lines into quads. See Figure 12 below.
  5. The last step consisted of taking the quads, placing panels on the quads, and placing columns on the ribs. The height of the panels and radius of the columns could be flexed. See Figure 13 below.
  6. In order to make a parallel structure next to the original one, I used a similar methodology where everything was still dynamic, but changed the y- and z-translation ranges so that they were only negative. This essentially created a parallel structure and represented the second half seen in Figure 2 and 4. See Figure 14 below.
    7. Figure 5: Full Model Network Diagram
    Figure 5: Full Model Network Diagram
Figure 6: Curve 1 Defintion
Figure 6: Curve 1 Defintion
Figure 7: Curve 2 Definition
Figure 7: Curve 2 Definition
Figure 8: Curve 3 Definition
Figure 8: Curve 3 Definition
Figure 9: Replacing Top Line with Sin Curve
Figure 9: Replacing Top Line with Sin Curve
Figure 10: Divide Curves into Placement Points for Ribs
Figure 10: Divide Curves into Placement Points for Ribs
Figure 11: Group and Divide Ribs into Placement Points
Figure 11: Group and Divide Ribs into Placement Points
Figure 12: Splitting Points into Quads
Figure 12: Splitting Points into Quads
Figure 13: Placing Panels and Columns, Changing Parameters.
Figure 13: Placing Panels and Columns, Changing Parameters.
Figure 14: Parallel Structure Changes
Figure 14: Parallel Structure Changes

Design Parameters

As discussed above, the structure can be changed dynamically in many ways:

  • Height of structure
  • Length and width of structure (y and z translation of curve 2 and 3)
  • Overhang of parallel structure (either cantilevered or extending to the ground)
  • Number of waves and amplitude of sin wave (curve 3)
  • Number of ribs
  • Number of placement points on each rib
  • Tube radius and type of tube
  • Panel thickness and type of panel
  • All parameters can also change the parallel side of the structure