Parametric methods for virtual reconstruction. The hyperbolic paraboloids designed by Félix Candela

Abstract

The paper explains the process used in a research project whose objective was the reconstruction of the hyperbolic-parabolic surfaces of a selection of non-built projects designed by Félix Candela.The workflow was based on an automation process.  After setting up the variables and define a procedural design, it has been possible to obtain the variation of the projects designed by Candela.The virtual reconstruction was done using models parameterized with Grasshopper and experimentally with Houdini FX.The results are valid not only for their scientific debate but also can have an educational role in the fields of geometry and architectural communication.