Along with terms like algorithmic and generative design, parametric design is a sub-category that falls under the heading of “Computational Design”.
From scouring a bunch of articles on the internet, the best and most succinct (in my opinion) definition of the term I could find was:
“Computational Design is a change in the medium of design expression from geometry to logic.”
Parametric design can be broken down to:
“…a process based on algorithmic thinking that enables the expression of parameters and rules that, together, define, encode and clarify the relationship between design intent and design response.”
Furthermore, it also allows for the possibility of many design iterations, not through the manipulation of the original geometry (even though this may be needed at the some point of the process) but from the input of new parameters that can be computed and generated.
When analyzed together, these two statements begin to expand on one working potential of the computational design process. I take this to mean that through varying computational techniques a more complete selection of design options and outcomes can be explored and possibly tested to optimize form in relation to the design intent as defined by the design constraints. In combination with new materials and fabrication methods it opens up a wide realm of new possibilities when exploring how we create and apply form.
To begin to see how I can implement this into my design process I decided start by creating my own parametric lattice to encode the structure of a mid-sole, much like Adidas did with their Futurecraft shoes.
First I created a simple model of a mid-sole in 3DS Max that I then transferred to a program called Element. Element can produce various lattice networks depending on user specification. Figure 1 is the initial lattice structure generated in the solid volume of the original model once your parameters are set.
Figure 1
A lattice structure can, for example, be used if you want to reduce the weight of a shoe but retain the structural function. In this case I decided to play around with the variable thickness of the lattice to give more support and durability to the pressure points of the mid-sole. The lattice will gradually thicken as the colour moves from blue to red (Figure 2).
Figure 2
The lattice has now been given volume with the lattice becoming thicker in the ball and heal areas of the mid-sole (Figures 3 & 4).
Figure 3
Figure 4
To export the file from Element you need to transform the lattice into a mesh structure (Figure 5) so that it can be cross-platformed into other programs. Currently, I am in the process of reducing model triangulation to make it more computationally manageable.
FIgure 5