Automated Design Workflow for Structural Nodes of Space Frame Structures

Large-scale structures are often built using space frames or trusses. These can become complex if the geometry of frame structure is customizable and they do not contain any recurring components. Consequently, design effort required, production cost these unique components large. Further, designing creating challenging for novice designers as processes require large know-how. This challenge be addressed with a knowledge-based engineering (KBE) approach. Design specific, repeating tasks analyzed broken down into individual steps, which automated rule-based procedure. work introduces an workflow that follows KBE The automates process irregular structures. takes mesh space-frame input, decomposes to nodes, bars, panels. then generates exports fabrication data required production: STL files three-dimensional node geometries additively manufactured multi jet fusion, cutting lines planar panels produced laser-cuter, length values used cut straight bars. describes in detail rules applied automation process. enables create reduced effort. on horse sculpture demonstrate manufacturability parts assembly structure.