Parametric Modelling from Zero to Hero with Grasshopper and SOFiSTiK

Parametric tools such as Grasshopper and the scripting capabilities of FEA software packages such as SOFiSTiK FEA allow engineers to automate functionalities to work faster and more creatively.
Besides, it has massive potential to parametrise and optimise structures of any type.

This online course teaches you the entire parametric modelling process of How to model a Post-Tensioned Concrete Bridge in Grasshopper and SOFiSTiK FEA.
You will learn the fundamentals of Grasshopper to create effective and maintainable visual scripts. And how to use the SOFiSTiK Grasshopper components to build axis-based bridge structures.

Day 1 – Grasshopper Basics Part 1

• Rhino and Grasshopper
  • Introduction and tips

• Grasshopper introduction
  • Storing and setting data
  • Geometrical data
  • Primitive data
  • Data flow between Rhino and Grasshopper
  • Inputs
  • Simple calculations
  • Vectors

• Simple example of parametric geometry
  • Simple beam bridge

• Data structures
  • Default component behaviour
  • Lists
  • Trees
  • Retrieving data

Day 2 – Grasshopper Basics Part 2

• Generating and analysing the geometry
  • Curves
  • Surfaces
  • Boolean operations

• Adding components
  • Food 4 rhino

• Scripting within Grasshopper

Day 3 – Post-tensioned Concrete Bridge Part 1

• Introduction to SOFiSTiK GH components
  • General overview

• Bridge Cross Sections
  • Read a bridge section from an existing SOFiSTiK Database
  • Read a bridge section from a library of predefined sections
  • Read a section from a JSON file
  • Create a section in Rhino
  • Composite Sections

• Bridge Alignment (AXIS)
  • Create an axis in Rhino
  • Create a parametric axis based on horizontal and vertical alignment data

• Axis-Based Modelling (Alignment, Placement, Variables, Sections,…)
  • Build a bridge using an axis, section and placements (SOFiSTiK CABD concept)
  • Create the superstructure geometric model
  • Create the substructure geometric model

Day 4 – Post-tensioned Concrete Bridge Part 2

• Superstructure analytical model
  • Interpolate Curve, Interpolate Surface, Evaluate Section
  • Structural lines, Couplings (Rigid links), Elastic Couplings, Springs
  • SOFiMSHC component

• Substructure analytical model
  • Assign the substructure to specific placements using the Placement Transform component.

• Prestressing
  • Define the tendon geometry
  • Prestressing Attributes
  • Prestressing System
  • TENDON component

• Loads
  • Point, line and area loads
  • Load case Attributes
  • SOFiLOAD component

• Interoperability between Grasshopper and SOFiSTiK FEA (SSD and Teddy)
  • SOFiSTiK Project component
  • SSD Workflow

• Construction stages
  • Define groups in Grasshopper
  • Set up CSM trask in SSD
  • Check CSM results in SSD with SOFiSTiK Postprocessors (System, Graphic, Result, Report)

Dates

Registration