A computational implementation of Vector-based 3D Graphic Statics (VGS) for interactive and real-time structural design

This article presents a computational implementation for the Vector-based Graphic Statics (VGS) framework making it an effective CAD tool for the design of spatial structures in static equilibrium (VGS-tool). The paper introduces several key features that convert a purely theoretical graph and geometry based framework into a fully automated computational procedure, including the following new contributions: a general algorithm for constructing 3-dimensional interdependent force and force diagrams; the implementation of a procedure that allows the interdependent transformation of both diagrams; an approach to apply specific constraints to the computationally generated diagrams; the integration of the algorithms as a plug-in for a CAD environment (Grasshopper3D of Rhino3D). The main features of the proposed framework are highlighted with a design case study developed using the newly introduced CAD plug-in (namely the VGS-tool). This plugin uses synthetic-oriented and intuitive graphical representation to allow the user to design spatial structures in equilibrium as three-dimensional trusses. The goal is to facilitate collaboration between structural engineers and architects during the conceptual phase of the design process.