The design of novel roof trusses with shape annealing: assessing the ability of a computational method in aiding structural designers with varying design intent
A study of roof truss designs conceived by architects and civil engineers as well as those generated with shape annealing, a computational design method for structural configuration, is presented. The purpose of this study is to assess the capabilities of shape annealing in (1) meeting the needs of designers with varying intent, and (2) presenting spatially intriguing, yet functional, structures that expand the range of designs considered in the conceptual design stage. An advantage of shape annealing for conceptual design is unbiased, directed exploration of the design space. The conclusion of this study is that shape annealing generates alternatives that appeal to designers with different purposes while providing insight into relations between structural form and function.
structural design conceptual design computer-aided design innovation design rationale