Case Study: University of Glasgow streamlines parametric fabric structure design with Oasys GSA

University of Glasgow speeds parametric fabric structure design with Oasys Software

The University of Glasgow MEng students faced the challenge of designing long span tensile fabric structures, a process made complex by highly non-linear behavior where slight changes in boundary conditions produce different forms. To efficiently test many design iterations, they utilized the Oasys GSA-Grasshopper plugin from vendor Oasys Software to create a seamless parametric workflow between Rhinoceros 3D and Oasys GSA for form finding and analysis.

Using the Oasys GSA-Grasshopper plugin, the students implemented two parametric methods to rapidly generate and analyze design iterations for an aeroplane hangar and a museum. This solution allowed them to quickly evaluate designs against failure criteria and optimize the structures by identifying the most impactful properties. The project served as an excellent introduction to tensile fabric structures and provided valuable experience using leading industry-based software from Oasys Software.

University of Glasgow