Conference Presentations by Klaas Rycke
INNOCHAIN, 2017
Historically the design process of tensile structures is an analogue process which is based on in... more Historically the design process of tensile structures is an analogue process which is based on intuition but
characterized by being a linear process. Frei Otto used this process by setting up physical models in order
to understand the structural behavior of such structures [1]. In the further years digital modelling and
simulation has been developed to accelerate the process, whereas it still rests linear and is timeconsuming
to make changes within the design process [2] and [3].
This paper develops a new approach for the modeling of complex structures which is based on a nonlinear
and recursive workflow. This process allows the designer other levels of interaction with the
algorithm during calculation. For highly complex systems human capacity is exceeded so evolutionary
algorithms are used to enrich the design and propose diverse optimized solutions. These algorithms use
machine learning to provide better solutions, acquiring knowledge from their own experience and external
data inputs [4]. The external data comes from pictures of nature constructions which allow the algorithm
to practice biomimicry, and physical principles which are already theorized. For example, spider webs
which consist of 3D-anticlastic tensile nets stabilized by cable networks [5] provide knowledge about the
behaviors of tensile structures. This knowledge coming from scientific biological papers is a built up data
which feed the machine learning algorithm. Designers interact with the outcome of the algorithm via
toolboxes that include different strategies. With such a user interface the user can orient the design within
an interactive evolutionary computation tool. This synergy between the designer and the algorithm, the
human intelligence and the artificial intelligence, makes the design smarter and allow to develop
architectural, geometrical and structural aspects simultaneously.
Following workshops will be elaborated in the paper to show the actual state of the research: “Intelligent
Fabrication” at Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Versailles with participation of the artist
Tomás Saraceno and his studio and “Bearable Lightness of Being” in Hong Kong in 2014. With manual
intuition provided by physical models as well as form-finding and structural analysis conducted on digital
models, the behaviors of tensile structures are analyzed. The understanding of the behaviors of the
structure allows to set up rules to define the main parameters. The computational design tools were tested
and improved during these workshops. Practical limits were highlighted which leads to further researches,
particularly in machine learning and interactive evolutionary computation. Nevertheless, the workshops
allowed to interact intuitively with the algorithm, showing that this design approach enhance intuitiveness
and accessibility of digital tools for designers.
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Papers by Klaas Rycke
lieuxdits, 2019
Matériaux, géométrie, topologie sont les trois termes avec lesquels Klaas De Rycke a introduit le... more Matériaux, géométrie, topologie sont les trois termes avec lesquels Klaas De Rycke a introduit le séminaire. On parle de matériaux, on parle de forme, on parle de déformations, on parle d’optimisation topologique et on parle des moyens qui sont les nôtres aujourd’hui. Ces moyens numériques qui ont bousculé le monde de l’ingénierie, mais aussi le monde de la production de la construction.
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Proceedings of the 29th International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe)
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Open Conference Proceedings, 2022
The combination of parametric modelling with structural analysis prompted new synergies between d... more The combination of parametric modelling with structural analysis prompted new synergies between designing and engineering. The connection of structural calculation models such as Karamba3d to algorithmic modelling platforms such as Grasshopper3d allowed to embed tools for analysis and simulation into the environment of creative design processes. This way structural analysis advanced from its single sided calculation “duty” towards participation in design language of articulated structural expression. 3d-concrete-printing serves as a great new territory to apply the potential of real-time parametric structural analysis in the built environment of rapid prototyping and robotic fabrication. While 3d-printed-concrete rapidly advanced in technology and empiric know-how, so also grew the ambition to utilize them for larger purposes and bigger building projects. Known requirements such as structural integrity according to building code, interfaces for construction or waterproofing pose cl...
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This paper discusses a collaborative project by RDAI architects, Bollinger+Grohmann and the timbe... more This paper discusses a collaborative project by RDAI architects, Bollinger+Grohmann and the timber construction company Holzbau Amann. The project is located in a former swimming pool in Paris and it is part of the new interior of a flagship store of the French fashion label Hermes. In late 2009, Rena Duma Architects, asked Bollinger+Grohmann to collaborate as structural engineers on a challenging design proposal within a very short timeframe. Three wooden lattice structures, the so-called “bulle” and one monumental staircase with a similar design approach characterize the interior of the new flagship store. The lattice structures are dividing the basement into different retail spaces. They vary in height (8-9 m) and diameter (8-12 m) and have a free-form shaped wicker basket appearance. Wood was the chosen material for these structures to strengthen the idea of the wicker-baskets and to create an interior space with a sustainable and innovative material. Keywords. digital productio...
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ce/papers
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Impact: Design With All Senses, 2019
Due to developments and progress in the realms of digital design processes and automated manufact... more Due to developments and progress in the realms of digital design processes and automated manufacturing techniques, the complexity of structures has been increasing. The ability to easily generate variants and integrate optimisation processes is an important aspect of such complex systems, particularly in the early project stages. For the purpose of early modelling and optimisation, the engineer must make reasonable assumptions and simplifications in a manner that the model is easy to handle in terms of design parameters and computation time, but simultaneously remains robust in terms of accurate calculation. The research presented in this contribution investigates general strategies for modelling and analysis of complex hybrid lightweight structures in this context. Furthermore, the represented research tests the application of the established modelling concepts on a complex tensile structure. The focus lies on the possibilities of structural design and development with parametric design methods using form finding and optimisation processes.
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Tensile structures represent a structural challenge for engineers where design modeling and calcu... more Tensile structures represent a structural challenge for engineers where design modeling and calculations interact through complex processes. The use of linear processes to design and calculate such complex structures remains slow and inefficient. The aim of this research is to develop an interactive digital design tool that generates various typologies of tensile structures and to propose optimized design solutions adapted to local, semi-local and global objectives.
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Footbridge 2022, Madrid: Creating Experience, 2021
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Footbridge 2017 Berlin - Tell A Story: Conference Proceedings 6-8.9.2017 TU-Berlin, 2017
Students of the Ecole nationale supérieure d'architecture de Versailles participated in the w... more Students of the Ecole nationale supérieure d'architecture de Versailles participated in the workshop ‘Intelligent Fabrication – Digital Bridges' where they investigated bridge designs using parametric simulation tools and numerical fabrication techniques. Working in the environment of CAD software (Rhino), extended with parametric plug-ins (Grasshopper and Karamba) the workshop focused on combining complex parametric modelling techniques with FEM simulation. Students developed an intuitive design approach through the analysis of digital and physical models. This paper explains the processes and outcomes of the two week workshop where three designs were constructed at 1:1 and others at 1:5 and 1:10. The proposals displayed a broad range of design and structural concepts, with some investigating topological and geometric optimization and others, the process of fabrication using 3d printing and laser-cutting.
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Humanizing Digital Reality, Dec 13, 2017
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Beton- und Stahlbetonbau, 2017
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Stahlbau, 2016
Das Freizeit- und Wellnessbad “Aquamotion de Courchevel” -befindet sich im Herzen der Grandes Com... more Das Freizeit- und Wellnessbad “Aquamotion de Courchevel” -befindet sich im Herzen der Grandes Combes im Eingangsbereich des Ski-Resorts auf einer Hohe von 1?500 m. Das Schwimmzentrum liegt als horizontale Plattform zwischen den Auslaufern der benachbarten Berge. Die Tragstruktur des Gebaudes besteht aus einem grundstandigen Massivbau und einem Stahldach mit Abmessungen von 120 m × 80 m, das gleichsam aus dem Boden heraus wachst und den Massivbau mit einer minimalen Anzahl von 25 tragenden Stutzen, zwei Wanden und drei Widerlagern uberspannt. An einigen Stellen kragt das Dach bis zu 17 m aus. Seine Struktur wird durch vier grose Dachoffnungen unterbrochen, die fur die notwendige Belichtung im Innenraum sorgen und einen Blick uber das Tal und uber das grosartige Alpenpanorama bieten. Courchevel's Aquamotion roof structure Saint-Bon-Courchevel, Frankreich. The Recreation and Wellness Spa “Aquamotion” in Saint-Bon Courchevel is located in the heart of the Grandes Combes at the entrance of the ski resort at an elevation of 1?500 m. The Aquatic Centre is lies as a horizontal platform, wedged between the flanks of the neighbouring mountain scenery. The solid construction of the building has a steel roof area of 120 m × 80 m, rising up from the ground and providing a minimum of load-bearing points: 25 columns, two walls and three abutments. At some points, the roof cantilevers up to 17 m. The necessary light enters through four different-sized roof openings and offers a view over a remarkable Alpine panorama.h
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This paper discusses methodologies of design, simulation and fabrication of free-form lattice tim... more This paper discusses methodologies of design, simulation and fabrication of free-form lattice timber pavilions, based on experience gained from three such projects developed in cooperation with RDAI Architects. Due to multi-level interdependencies between structural feasibility, fabrication technology and form-shaping, informed digital models taking into consideration specialist knowledge from different professions were developed. The authors’ experience is used to explain complex workflows covering all stages of design, study and fabrication.
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Students of the Ecole nationale supérieure d'architecture de Versailles participated in the works... more Students of the Ecole nationale supérieure d'architecture de Versailles participated in the workshop 'Intelligent Fabrication – Digital Bridges' where they investigated bridge designs using parametric simulation tools and numerical fabrication techniques. Working in the environment of CAD software (Rhino), extended with parametric plug-ins (Grasshopper and Karamba) the workshop focused on combining complex parametric modelling techniques with FEM simulation. Students developed an intuitive design approach through the analysis of digital and physical models. This paper explains the processes and outcomes of the two week workshop where three designs were constructed at 1:1 and others at 1:5 and 1:10. The proposals displayed a broad range of design and structural concepts, with some investigating topological and geometric optimization and others, the process of fabrication using 3d printing and laser-cutting. Fig. 1. Bridge designs developed over the two week workshop
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Humanizing Digital Reality, 2017
This paper discusses methodologies of design, simulation and fabrication
of free-form lattice tim... more This paper discusses methodologies of design, simulation and fabrication
of free-form lattice timber pavilions, based on experience gained from
three such projects developed in cooperation with RDAI Architects. Due to
multi-level interdependencies between structural feasibility, fabrication technology
and form-shaping, informed digital models taking into consideration
specialist knowledge from different professions were developed. The authors’
experience is used to explain complex workflows covering all stages of design,
study and fabrication.
Bookmarks Related papers MentionsView impact
International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures, 2017
The Franz Masereel Centre roof structure is based on a centuries-old structural typology called r... more The Franz Masereel Centre roof structure is based on a centuries-old structural typology called reciprocal frame. Known from centuries to span over great distances with limited-length-timber-elements, this typology is generated by mutually self-supporting elements placed on a specific geometrical adjustment, and mainly developed through simple repetitive patterns. In the context of the extension of the Franz Masereel Centre, it has been adapted on an extruded truncated cone, offering a unique space, spreading through intimate rooms with various perspectives, giving no specific directions and evolving through the different spaces. This project is the opportunity to experiment the possibilities and limits of new technologies in the development of a millenary structural typology. During the whole design process, the different stakes – from the architectural orientations to the structural behaviour- have been applied as various parameters of different geometrical optimizations and it has been the opportunity to study a large panel of reciprocal frame possibilities. This paper will present the results of this study and their applications and will provide a critical look-back on the processes of optimization of reciprocal frame structures, considering the efficiency of the tools, the choice of various parameters and different models and the application on a real scale project.
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Conference Presentations by Klaas Rycke
characterized by being a linear process. Frei Otto used this process by setting up physical models in order
to understand the structural behavior of such structures [1]. In the further years digital modelling and
simulation has been developed to accelerate the process, whereas it still rests linear and is timeconsuming
to make changes within the design process [2] and [3].
This paper develops a new approach for the modeling of complex structures which is based on a nonlinear
and recursive workflow. This process allows the designer other levels of interaction with the
algorithm during calculation. For highly complex systems human capacity is exceeded so evolutionary
algorithms are used to enrich the design and propose diverse optimized solutions. These algorithms use
machine learning to provide better solutions, acquiring knowledge from their own experience and external
data inputs [4]. The external data comes from pictures of nature constructions which allow the algorithm
to practice biomimicry, and physical principles which are already theorized. For example, spider webs
which consist of 3D-anticlastic tensile nets stabilized by cable networks [5] provide knowledge about the
behaviors of tensile structures. This knowledge coming from scientific biological papers is a built up data
which feed the machine learning algorithm. Designers interact with the outcome of the algorithm via
toolboxes that include different strategies. With such a user interface the user can orient the design within
an interactive evolutionary computation tool. This synergy between the designer and the algorithm, the
human intelligence and the artificial intelligence, makes the design smarter and allow to develop
architectural, geometrical and structural aspects simultaneously.
Following workshops will be elaborated in the paper to show the actual state of the research: “Intelligent
Fabrication” at Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Versailles with participation of the artist
Tomás Saraceno and his studio and “Bearable Lightness of Being” in Hong Kong in 2014. With manual
intuition provided by physical models as well as form-finding and structural analysis conducted on digital
models, the behaviors of tensile structures are analyzed. The understanding of the behaviors of the
structure allows to set up rules to define the main parameters. The computational design tools were tested
and improved during these workshops. Practical limits were highlighted which leads to further researches,
particularly in machine learning and interactive evolutionary computation. Nevertheless, the workshops
allowed to interact intuitively with the algorithm, showing that this design approach enhance intuitiveness
and accessibility of digital tools for designers.
Papers by Klaas Rycke
of free-form lattice timber pavilions, based on experience gained from
three such projects developed in cooperation with RDAI Architects. Due to
multi-level interdependencies between structural feasibility, fabrication technology
and form-shaping, informed digital models taking into consideration
specialist knowledge from different professions were developed. The authors’
experience is used to explain complex workflows covering all stages of design,
study and fabrication.
characterized by being a linear process. Frei Otto used this process by setting up physical models in order
to understand the structural behavior of such structures [1]. In the further years digital modelling and
simulation has been developed to accelerate the process, whereas it still rests linear and is timeconsuming
to make changes within the design process [2] and [3].
This paper develops a new approach for the modeling of complex structures which is based on a nonlinear
and recursive workflow. This process allows the designer other levels of interaction with the
algorithm during calculation. For highly complex systems human capacity is exceeded so evolutionary
algorithms are used to enrich the design and propose diverse optimized solutions. These algorithms use
machine learning to provide better solutions, acquiring knowledge from their own experience and external
data inputs [4]. The external data comes from pictures of nature constructions which allow the algorithm
to practice biomimicry, and physical principles which are already theorized. For example, spider webs
which consist of 3D-anticlastic tensile nets stabilized by cable networks [5] provide knowledge about the
behaviors of tensile structures. This knowledge coming from scientific biological papers is a built up data
which feed the machine learning algorithm. Designers interact with the outcome of the algorithm via
toolboxes that include different strategies. With such a user interface the user can orient the design within
an interactive evolutionary computation tool. This synergy between the designer and the algorithm, the
human intelligence and the artificial intelligence, makes the design smarter and allow to develop
architectural, geometrical and structural aspects simultaneously.
Following workshops will be elaborated in the paper to show the actual state of the research: “Intelligent
Fabrication” at Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Versailles with participation of the artist
Tomás Saraceno and his studio and “Bearable Lightness of Being” in Hong Kong in 2014. With manual
intuition provided by physical models as well as form-finding and structural analysis conducted on digital
models, the behaviors of tensile structures are analyzed. The understanding of the behaviors of the
structure allows to set up rules to define the main parameters. The computational design tools were tested
and improved during these workshops. Practical limits were highlighted which leads to further researches,
particularly in machine learning and interactive evolutionary computation. Nevertheless, the workshops
allowed to interact intuitively with the algorithm, showing that this design approach enhance intuitiveness
and accessibility of digital tools for designers.
of free-form lattice timber pavilions, based on experience gained from
three such projects developed in cooperation with RDAI Architects. Due to
multi-level interdependencies between structural feasibility, fabrication technology
and form-shaping, informed digital models taking into consideration
specialist knowledge from different professions were developed. The authors’
experience is used to explain complex workflows covering all stages of design,
study and fabrication.