A parametric investigation into the development of cold formed steel free form grid shells

In recent years, the adoption of parametric design approaches to geometric modelling allows to describe and investigate large complex systems with few variables [1]. Form finding techniques such as the force density and dynamic relaxation methods help in defining efficient free form structures [2]. There is therefore potential to design free form grid shells which can be optimized for basic parameters like support conditions, grid topology, load conditions, material and section properties. This work explores the possibility to use cold-formed steel section for free form shells, making advantage of their structural efficiency and versatility that allows the realization of light constructions. Three free form shells, having different geometries, configurations and grid topology, are investigated, and the viability of adopting cold formed steel members to create lightweight and stable grid shells through parametric modelling is analysed.