Abstract: This paper presents an elements-grouped morphogenesis method for the design of grid shells based on finding the linkage mechanism system shape that corresponds to the state of minimum potential energy. This method assigns the elements to several groups according to architectural design intentions and requirements to optimize a structural shape. A shape transformation equation is derived to constrain the total length of elements in each element group in the morphogenesis process and the generalized inverse matrix theory is then used to resolve the equation. The positions of nodes are, thus, progressively updated until the system reaches the minimum potential energy state. This method is characterized by the settings of element groups, temporary elements, and temporary forces. Finally, several numerical examples illustrate the characteristics and effectiveness of the proposed method.

Key words: Morphogenesis; Elements-grouped; Linkage mechanism; Length constraint; Self-adjustment of length

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