Structural analysis using Grasshopper in architectural design empowers architects and engineers to assess and optimize structural performance directly within the parametric design environment. By leveraging plugins such as Karamba3D, users can evaluate factors like load distribution, material efficiency, and structural stability in real time. This seamless integration encourages iterative exploration, enabling the creation of innovative and structurally sound design solutions.

This page is under construction and tutorial links will be added when available. 

Structural Analysis 1/2

Karamba3D

Karamba3D is a Grasshopper embedded tool that provides structural analysis using the Finite Element Method Analysis (FEA). FEA is widely used in engineering to solve problems by dividing a large system to smaller parts, called finite elements.

Karamba3D, along with a set of grasshopper’s parametric tools, can be easily used by both engineers and designers for fast and easy structural optimization.

If you are a TU Delft Student, you have access to a Karamba3D license through Brightspace under Software Downloads > Rhinoceros Plug-Ins 7. Follow the installation manual under the Downloads tab.

Tutorials

Structural Analysis 2/2

ANSYS

ANSYS is a comprehensive engineering simulation software suite used to model, analyze, and predict how products will perform in real-world environments. Its tools enable engineers and designers to simulate a wide range of physical phenomena, including structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetics, and more. In engineering for the built environment, it is primarily used to do structural analysis and modeling fluid dynamics. ANSYS allows for detailed modeling of complex scenarios, enabling users to optimize design parameters, assess durability, and improve efficiency without the need for costly physical prototypes.

Tutorials

You can find different tutorials for how to use ANSYS on the learning resources page of the ANSYS website (https://www.ansys.com/academic/learning-resources) and some additional tutorials on Digipedia, linked below.