Compression-only form finding through finite subdivision of the external force polygon

Akbarzadeh M., Van Mele T. and Block P.
Proceedings of the IASS-SLTE 2014 Symposium
Brasilia, Brazil
2014

This paper demonstrates the potential of combining graphic statics with (finite) subdivision schemes to generate exciting compressive solutions for given loading and boundary conditions in two dimensions. It emphasizes the independence of the internal and external equilibrium polygons in the force diagram of compression-only structures and suggests a design strategy by reconfiguring the internal force polygons through subdividing the space bounded by the external force polygon. The resulting structural forms demonstrate the strength of graphical methods for design and form finding of structures.