Modeling a Parametric Structure

I like the look of parabolic shapes, so I started out with three defining parabolas for my design. I was having trouble creating parametric points on the surface I defined with those points, so I decided to start fresh and achieve the parabolic look I wanted in a more simplistic fashion by using lines to define my structure.

The parameters that can be changed with a slider in this design include:

• length of structure (x value of line 1)
• curvature (translation of line 1 to line 2)
• height (z value of line 3)
• width (y value of line 3)
• number of ribs
• number of panels per rib
• number of columns

Transforming Your Geometry

I added a sine curve instead of a straight line to the curve that defines where the panels meet the columns so they columns can vary in shape.

Experimenting with Parameters

Maximizing columns

Minimizing columns

Too many columns reaches a point where they overlap. Also need at least 2 columns, otherwise it doesn’t make structural sense.

Adding too many waves made the structure less smooth and more rigid. Less waves was smoother.