A Novel Integrative Design Framework Combining 4D Sketching, Geometry Reconstruction, Micromechanics Material Modelling, and Structural Analysis

Abstract

State-of-the-art workflows within Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) are still caught in sequential planning processes. Digital design tools in this domain often lack proper communication between different stages of design and relevant domain knowledge. Furthermore, decisions made in the early stages of design, where sketching is used to initiate, develop, and communicate ideas, heavily impact later stages, resulting in the need for rapid feedback to the architectural designer so they can proceed with adequate knowledge about design implications. Accordingly, this paper presents research on a novel integrative design framework based on a recently developed 4D sketching interface, targeted for architectural design as a form-finding tool coupled with three modules: (1) a Geometric Modelling module, which utilises Points2Surf as a machine learning model for automatic surface mesh reconstruction from the point clouds produced by sketches, (2) a Material Modelling module, which predicts the mechanical properties of biocomposites based on multiscale micromechanics homogenisation techniques, and (3) a Structural Analysis module, which assesses the mechanical performance of the meshed structure on the basis of the predicted material properties using finite element simulations. The proposed framework is a step towards using material-informed design already in the early stages of design.