Transitioning from Dynamo to Grasshopper and Rhino 7.0: Positive Pressure Structure Simulation
- Andres Silva
- Oct 8, 2023
- 3 min read
In this example, I'll demonstrate how I used Grasshopper, Kangaroo Physics, and Rhino 7.0 to create a dynamic fabric simulation. This project allowed me to integrate Kangaroo's physics engine with meshes and NURBS objects for a realistic cloth-like behavior with specific anchors at certain heights around buildings.
The Project
1. Side Project: Dynamic Fabric Simulation
Purpose: To understand how Kangaroo Physics interacts with different types of geometries, specifically meshes and NURBS objects.
Description: I set out to simulate a piece of fabric Held up by it's own rigidity per instance. This involved creating a 3D model of a in Rhino, which served as the support structure for the fabric.
Perfecting Your Code
1. Iterative Development
Approach: I started with a basic Kangaroo simulation for cloth and gradually refined it. Initially, I used a simple rectangular mesh to simulate identical pattern for over 85% of the design therefore reducing manufacturing time and costs.
Learning: Through iterations, I learned how to fine-tune parameters like stiffness, gravity, and damping to achieve a realistic fabric behavior.
2. Code Review and Feedback
Feedback Loop: I shared my progress on forums and received valuable feedback on optimizing the simulation for better performance. Especially in the next article associated with sustainability and environmental simulations.
Implementing Feedback: Incorporating suggestions like adjusting anchor points and modifying mesh density significantly improved the simulation.
3. Optimizing for Performance
Mesh Density: I learned that increasing mesh density can lead to more accurate simulations but may also demand more computational resources. It is also pleasing to have the triangles be of a certain range in size.
Parameter Sensitivity: I explored how tweaking parameters can drastically affect the simulation's behavior and performance, not to mention it's appearance.
Creating Stand-In Projects
1. Learning by Replication
Process: I started with a simplified version of the fabric simulation using a basic triangular mesh that was meant to be a case-study of the Royal museum 's dome in London's the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court by Foster & Partners.
Outcome: This stand-in project allowed me to understand the fundamental principles of system's that could support themselves with minor structural additions. The simulation was without the complexity of a highly exterior model and focused on adaptability and simplicity.
2. Complexity Gradation
Progression: As I gained confidence, I moved on to more complex cutouts until I was able to fully develop the code-block to my satisfaction. This allowed for complex cutouts from objects and or by lines from a surface and thus gave a myriad of opportunities to what is possible.
Learning Curve: This step-by-step approach helped me grasp the nuances of Kangaroo Physics and its interaction with various geometries.
3. Application of Tools
Meshes and NURBS: I explored how Kangaroo Physics behaves differently with meshes compared to NURBS surfaces. For instance, meshes tend to provide a more realistic cloth-like behavior due to their discrete nature and therefore was the key to this particular design regime.
Lessons Learned
1. Key Takeaways
Geometry Interaction: I gained a deep understanding of how Kangaroo Physics interacts with different types of geometry, particularly meshes and NURBS objects. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the tool and developing further understanding by making smaller case-studies if required; this was the key to developing a complex enough system to deal with the issue at hand.
Parameter Sensitivity: I learned the importance of fine-tuning simulation parameters for accurate and performant results.
2. Challenges Faced
Performance Optimization: Balancing simulation accuracy with computational resources was a significant challenge. I found that mesh density and parameter values played crucial roles.
Conclusion
This project exemplified the power of Grasshopper and Rhino 7.0 in conjunction with Kangaroo Physics for dynamic simulations. It also highlighted the importance of side projects and stand-in projects in honing my skills and understanding. I'm excited to share more experiences and insights in the next part of this series.
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