BRANCHING SYSTEM

OPEN SYSTEMS: BRANCHING STRUCTURE

Moving away from the homogeneous standardization homogeneous standardization of the Modern paradigm, this research, through the generative use of parametric tools, is seeking to investigate open systems as multi-performing, differentiated organizational systems.

In line with the experimentation on branching structures developed by Frei Otto, the research unfolds through a series of exercises aiming to open up a generative approach to parametric design: specificity is achieved through iterative differentiation, adaptation through redundancy, robustness through structural-geometric interdependency.

Understanding architectural design as a process of formation leads to the exploration of a pre-material state of a given systems: namely, the state prior to the crystallization into a specific design form is explored. In this way, open systems act as virtual machines prior to the actualization into a given design scenario.

Methodologically, different paths are followed in an attempt to open up potentials for inclusive performance:

Organizational logic> branching is explored as an organizational system. Different network topologies are analyzed and compared.

Geometrical logic> the geometrical logic of branching is created and developed through parametric tools: Digital project is employed to generate the geometrical structure; in addition differentiation is achieved by the instrumentalization of the defining principle: angle between branches, number of branches, length, displacement of the nodes in space…

An intricate matrix is then emerging from the proliferation of differentiated geometrical operation.

Structural logic> the structure and the stability of the various configurations is analyzed through finite element analysis software [FEA]. Thus running structural analysis necessitates specifying a range of parameters to set up likely structural scenarios.

Running structural tests on differentiated geometrical arrangements is possible to detect certain general behavioral patterns happening during the process of extracting precise data for structural analysis or fabrication.

The possibility to establish interdependent relationships between different system logics contributes to the redefinition of common fitness criteria: each system logic, instead of responding to a specific optimized scenario, informs each other towards a multi parametric performing whole. Geometrical arrangements, spatial affects, structural performance and organizational logic contribute to the formation of the system and its performance-based logic.

Analysis and structural consultancy Eng. Carlo Diaco