Innovative Architectural Design: Zaha Hadid Architects Leverages 3D Printing and Topology Optimization
Technology Category
- Analytics & Modeling - Digital Twin / Simulation
Applicable Industries
- Construction & Infrastructure
- Equipment & Machinery
Applicable Functions
- Product Research & Development
Use Cases
- Additive Manufacturing
- Rapid Prototyping
- Virtual Prototyping & Product Testing
Services
- System Integration
About The Customer
Zaha Hadid Architects, founded in 1979, is one of the world’s most innovative architecture studios. The firm is known for its pioneering approach to design and its exploration of new design and construction methods to solve architectural problems. The Computation and Design research group (co|de) of the company, consisting of 10 people, investigates various simulation and design techniques as well as software. They have deep knowledge of advanced simulation and design tools. At Zaha Hadid, innovation combines three key aspects: geometry, structure, and fabrication. The firm uses state-of-the-art form-finding tools and technologies and continuously works on integrating these tools and methods into their design language.
The Challenge
In 2016, Zaha Hadid Architects and its Computation and Design research group (Zaha Hadid co|de) sought to explore the potential of 3D printing and topology optimization for their projects. They collaborated with Stratasys, a renowned 3D printing company, to conduct a study for the design and fabrication of a 3D printed chair. The challenge was to optimize and ensure the feasibility of their design. The team aimed to integrate advanced optimization techniques into their workflow, which required a software suite for computer-aided engineering. The goal was to make complex shapes feasible and drive innovation in architectural processes. The design atelier of Zaha Hadid, founded in 1979, is one of the world’s most innovative architecture studios and an early pioneer of innovative design. The Computation and Design research group (co|de) of the company investigates new design and construction methods to solve architectural problems, exploring various simulation and design techniques as well as software.
The Solution
To address the challenge, Zaha Hadid co|de used Altair HyperWorks, a software suite for computer-aided engineering, and worked with Altair Engineering to integrate advanced optimization techniques into their workflow. They also used Altair HyperMesh™ and Altair OptiStruct™ to integrate topology optimization into their design processes. The primary goal with topology optimization was to eliminate material where it was not required, and as a result, reduce the weight of the structure. The design process followed a two-step optimization process with an iterative workflow: First, a geometrical model was generated in the design tool. Then, the meshing and optimization was set up in a custom workflow plug-in. Subsequently, a topology optimization analysis in Altair OptiStruct was performed. In the next step, the geometry was rationalized and re-meshed to produce a structurally efficient geometry.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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