Ping-Hsiang Chen, Senior Associate at Dar Al-Handasah and former computational designer at Zaha Hadid Architects, will lead a three-day online workshop on physics-based modeling, form-finding, and optimization with Kangaroo Physics, hosted by McNeel Europe.
This course introduces Kangaroo Physics, the live physics engine in Grasshopper, through interactive simulation, form-finding, optimization, and constraint solving. Participants will explore advanced modeling methods that use physical principles and material behavior to drive the design of complex geometries.
Through practical exercises covering gridshells, origami, curved-crease folding, and inflatable structures, participants will learn to define constraints, analyze geometry, and address common challenges in geometric optimization. The workshop will also introduce core concepts such as particle systems and material properties, alongside techniques for creating animations and working with NURBS, Mesh, and SubD geometry.
Designed for architects and designers interested in advanced computational modeling, the course connects physics-based experimentation with practical approaches to form-finding and geometry rationalization.
Day 1: Fundamentals of Physics-Based Modeling
- Introduction to physics-based modeling concepts.
- Overview of Kangaroo solvers and simulation setup.
- Understanding goals, forces, and constraints.
- Exploring interactions between geometric elements.
- Case study: Gridshells and wood bending systems.
Day 2: Form-Finding and Advanced Geometry Modeling
- Introduction to tensegrity structures.
- Exploring origami, folding behaviors, and curved creases.
- Form-finding with Mesh and SubD geometry using Kangaroo.
- Understanding the principles of geometric optimization.
- Using subdivision and QuadRemesh to prepare and refine geometry.
Day 3: Advanced Applications and Optimization Workflows
- Simulating inflation and pneumatic structures.
- Exploring differential growth and circle packing.
- Understanding collision detection and controlling interactions between geometries.
- Combining Kangaroo with evolutionary algorithms and iterative loops.
- Integrating Kangaroo into advanced modeling and fabrication workflows.
Course requirement: The class is designed for participants who have completed the Grasshopper Level 1 course or regularly use Grasshopper in their daily work and are familiar with its basic data structures. An intermediate level of proficiency in Rhino is also recommended.
Software requirement: Rhino 8
Online course fees: EUR 395 (+VAT). Full-time students and university teachers receive a 50% discount (proof of status required). We will confirm your seat after your payment has cleared.
Maximum number of participants for each course: 25. If there is no quorum, the course will be canceled 15 days in advance.
Course language: English
Educational seats are limited. Sign up now by contacting Verena!

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