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Polyvalence and Parametrics:
Parametric Modeling in Architecture and Design
Jason Halaby Harvard University |
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Preface
This publication represents my thesis research and design, conducted over two semesters at the GSD. I first became interested in parametric modeling while working with Professor Martin Bechthold on a system of planar ribs for a ferrocement armature. Using SolidWorks software, I modeled a number of structural ribs which were linked ot a curved surface. Any change made to the complex surface would regenerate the shape of each rib. This was immediately fascinating to me, not simply because it saved hours of modeling itme when the design changed, but because it implied a non-linear relationship between the software and the designer; neither was - or perhaps both were - in full control of the final product. I further pursued my interest in parametric modeling in Professor Daniel Schodek's course on Design Development, in which I completed a project entitled Smart-Ribs: Rapid Parametric Detailing. In this project i used CATIA software to rapidly generate parametric tab and slot details for a system of structural ribs. At the time, I was also conducting investigation into form and indeterminate program for my architecture design thesis with Professor Joseph MacDonald, which whom I began exploring parametric modeling applications in architecture design. The CATIA software environemtn became an experimental design tool for a series of furniture studies and ultimately fo rthe desing of anew Waldorf elementary school. The software was a greater participant in the design process than simply a timesaving device or representation tool - roles which are no doubt useful to the profession, yet ineffective at advancing th discipline. My research aims to advance the practice of architecture design through techniques of parametric modeling and direct output to digital modes of fabrication
Cambridge, Massachusetts
September 2004
Jason Halaby
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Publication Title
Year Published
2004, Harvard Graduate School of Design
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