Parametric design of timber structures using digital engineering approaches

Abstract

In recent decades, wood has been regaining importance as a key building material, primarily due to technological advances and the growing popularity of organic architectural forms. Digitalization has enabled the development of advanced design tools for complex geometries, providing architects and engineers with new opportunities to create innovative, curved structures. Modern engineered wood materials, distinguished by their exceptional load-bearing capacity, flexibility, and durability, are becoming the preferred choice for realizing bold architectural concepts. With digitally supported design and manufacturing, it is possible to create structures that would be extremely challenging or even unfeasible using traditional methods. In our research, we focused on the development of parametric wooden structures using contemporary digital technologies and engineering approaches. We analysed case studies of parametric design, where algorithmic tools generate complex geometric structures. Based on this, we developed and produced several experimental models that demonstrate the potential of this approach with regard to contemporary timber constructions.