Optimization and analysis of doubly-curved Kirigami space frames

Abstract

Inspired by the Japanese art of origami and kirigami, the concept of Spin-Valence is used to transform a two-dimensional sheet of metal into a three-dimensional spatial frame. Previous iterations of this design were developed by Emily Baker of the University of Arkansas, mainly by making scaled models. Recently a frame assembly of Spin-Valence units was analyzed experimentally and computationally to characterize the structural behavior of the system. Transitioning from flat to curved systems and building a full-scale pavilion motivates this study. This thesis focuses on using optimization to computationally construct doubly-curved configurations of the Spin-Valence pattern logic from input surfaces. To accomplish this, optimization in Rhinoceros v6 and Python v3.7 is used to create a coherent primary and secondary surface. The final structure is then subjected to finite element analysis using Abaqus 2017. Throughout history, spanning structures have evolved from linear elements such as beams to arches and finally to spatial systems. Each iteration manipulates form to counterbalance internal element forces with better material efficiency and architectural flexibility. Doubly-curved Spin-Valence surfaces are developed to allow greater versatility of form and frame characteristics.