Description

Shell-based cellular (shellular) funicular structures (SFSs) are efficient, single-layer 2-manifold structures with anticlastic curvature, designed using graphic statics principles. This research introduces a comprehensive methodology for designing these structures within the graphic statics framework. Given the significant challenges in designing these structures and the ease of using 3D graphic statics for cellular funicular structures, this study proposes a technique to convert any cellular funicular structure (CFS) into a shellular version (SFS). To facilitate this transition, the study presents an integrated methodology supported by a computational algorithm. This technique introduces a new tetrahedralization method, utilizing the reciprocal relationship between force and form diagrams, to generalize the conversion process. Consequently, the research investigates various shellular funicular structures under pure compression or tension states. Diverse design techniques are introduced, allowing the creation and manipulation of these structures through their three-dimensional spatial connectivity graphs, called “labyrinths.” A comparison of the structural performance between cellular and shellular funicular structures of similar volume density shows that, under the same boundary conditions, a shellular specimen can withstand forces three times greater than a cellular structure.