VGS, a new tool for the conceptual design of structures in equilibrium based on graphic statics

Jasienski, Jean-Philippe [UCL] Zastavni, Denis [UCL]

VGS tool is a computational implementation of the vector-based graphic statics (VGS) framework resulting in a powerful CAD tool for the design of spatial structures in equilibrium. Vector-based graphic statics is a direct extension of traditional 2D graphic statics to the third dimension. Relying on graph theory VGS introduced a generalized procedure for the construction of a 3D vector-based force diagram for any given 3D form diagram of a spatial network in static equilibrium. By establishing an interdependency between form and force diagrams, VGS allows users to transform one of the diagrams and evaluate directly the resulting transformation of the other diagram. This property allows for a quick and interactive exploration of possible equilibrium solutions in the early design phase. VGS Tool is implemented as a plug-in for the CAD environment McNeel Rhino/Grasshopper for both Windows and MacOS. VGS Tool uses synthetic and intuitive graphical means for the analysis and design of spatial structures such as networks of bar elements in static equilibrium. It is intended to support the collaborative work of structural engineers and architects from the conceptual phase of the design process. VGS tool is the fruit of the collaboration of Pierluigi D’Acunto, Yuchi Shen, Patrick Ole Ohlbrock and Jean- Philippe Jasienski.