Marina Ferreira Borges’s research while affiliated with Federal University of Minas Gerais and other places

This paper presents a study based on the performance design process by using parametric and algorithmic models development. This study integrates the structural analysis and the design to generate complex geometric structures, based on manufacture and assembly parameters. The used methodology is based on the Performative Model, in which the structure shape is generated using performance criteria. In this perspective, the complex structures development is only possible by reverting de shape conception process, in which its generation is linked to the geometric, material and load parameters. Therefore, the structural engineer not only participates in the evaluation phase, but also in the early stages, creating an exploration and production process of common knowledge among architects and engineers. For the purpose of investigating this approach, this work presents the design of a conceptual lattice wind tower.

This paper analyses the possibilities brought by new digital technologies, architectural design and production for a paradigm shift in the construction sector. The methodology proposes to use evolutionary economy theory, which sees innovation as a key agent for paradigm shifts, to visualise the connections between existing firms in the current paradigm and the connections that could be established for a new production paradigm through digital fabrication. In order to do this, the role of the university and its innovation potential will also be analysed, both to develop product technology and to contextualize the technology being imported into a regional context, developing an emancipatory production process for the construction industry.

This paper studies the process of parametric and algorithmic design, integrating structural analysis and design for the generation of complex geometric structures. This methodology is based on the Performative Model, where the shape is generated using performance criteria. In the approach, the development of complex structures is only possible by reversing the process of thinking to generate the form with established parameters for geometry, material and loading aspects. Thus, the structural engineer no longer only participates in the evaluation phase but also appears in the early stages, creating a process of exploration and production of common knowledge among architects and engineers. To research performance-based design, the development of a conceptual lattice for a wind tower is proposed. Thus, a system is made to generate geometries using Rhinoceros software, the Grasshopper plugin, and the VB programming language, integrated with stress analysis through the Scan & Solve plugin.