Emergent Modelling for Structural Design

Conventional structural analysis and design methods typically use a top-down approach to modelling, where there is a global algorithm that controls the solution process. Consequently the real time interaction with the model could become impractical due to its computational intensity. This paper describes an alternative approach to structural analysis, which draws its inspiration in behavioural models of animal movement. These models achieve a considerably complex behaviour based on a relatively simple bottom-up modelling approach. The application of behavioural modelling methods to structural analysis is described, and advantages and limitations of this approach are discussed.