Computer Process for Fitting Construction Materials to Curved Architectural Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining best-fitting construction materials for complex curved architectural surfaces are computationally slow and lack accuracy, especially when dealing with freeform curves that deviate from regular geometries like cylinders, spheres, or cones.
Innovation Solution
A computerized process that divides architectural surfaces into domains, matches them to regular curved solids through low and high accuracy matching techniques, and identifies suitable construction materials by comparing geometric parameters to stored specifications, utilizing parallel processing for efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If global optimization or local optimization methods are used to fit regular geometries to freeform surfaces, then the construction process becomes more feasible, but the computational time increases significantly and the accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the freeform surface into multiple planar facets, creating a faceted approximation. This segmentation allows the complex surface to be represented by simple geometric planes that can be easily constructed with standard materials, while maintaining visual fidelity to the original design.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of distorting the freeform surface to match regular geometries (traditional approach), the patent inverts the approach by fitting regular planar facets to approximate the freeform surface. This reversal maintains the integrity of the original design while achieving constructibility through accurate faceted representation.
2Ease of manufacture
If global optimization or local optimization methods are used to fit regular geometries to freeform surfaces, then the construction process becomes more feasible, but the fitting accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the surface into multiple small planar facets rather than attempting to fit a single regular geometry, the patent achieves higher local accuracy while maintaining overall constructibility. Each facet can be precisely fitted to its corresponding surface region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an excessive number of planar facets to approximate the freeform surface, ensuring that each local region is accurately represented. This partial approximation approach prioritizes local fidelity over global simplicity, achieving both accuracy and constructibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If iterative numerical optimization is used to approximate freeform curves with regular geometries, then constructibility is improved, but the process becomes computationally slow and sacrifices accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces iterative numerical optimization algorithms with a direct geometric construction approach. Instead of using computational trial-and-error methods, the system directly calculates planar facet configurations that approximate the freeform surface, eliminating the need for slow iterative processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional optimization approach by not trying to make the surface conform to regular geometries, but rather fitting regular planar facets to the surface. This inversion eliminates the need for iterative optimization while maintaining accuracy and constructibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer process for fitting construction materials to an architectural surface modeled in CAD divides the surface into domains. Sample points are defined on each domain surface. A surface portion of a regular curved solid is matched to the sample points. The surface portion of the curved solid is defined in terms of a central reference and boundary conditions. The result is compared to stored specifications to identify construction materials capable of forming the domain. At least one construction material is identified that can form each domain.