Geometric rules programming: parametric modelling to study different hyperbolic paraboloids

Parametric interpretation of geometric rules provides adaptive generative tools to compose different design solutions starting from the same reference surface/shape. Therefore, combining essential parameters (main geometric, features and rules), the aim is to translate Descriptive Geometry traditional topics into parametric tools to simplify interpretation, analyze and design of complex architectural systems.The main steps of research workflow are: choose reference shape/surface (e.g. hyperbolic paraboloid); geometric rules definition and identification of the best parameters to use; construction of adaptive parametric models based on different geometric genesis; choose samples/case studies; testing adaptable/parametric model to analyze existing architecture or to design new one. In order to extend previous researches and studies, parametric-generative tools are used to analyze three case studies: Dorton Arena, by Maciej Nowicki (existent architecture, Raleigh, USA,1953), Casa en Raleigh, by Eduardo Catalano (lost/demolished architecture, Raleigh, 1953-55) and St. Aloysius church, by Erdy McHenry Architecture (existent architecture, USA, 2009). In this paper our aim is to define a tool to use to generate a hyperbolic paraboloid starting from geometric properties and to analyze the surface. Our Tool is composed by a set of Clusters, that we have done to enhance the utility of Grasshopper. MELA will be an ADD-ON provides components for specific geometric applications, problem solving and optimization: HYPAR is one of these set of Clusters.