Clamchowder: Connecting natural form and spatial structures with Bivalvia as a target

Biomimetics is a topic that has been attracting attention in the field of architectural engineering in recent years. We have researched utilizing the features of Bivalvia shell form, which are easy to imagine as a spatial structure and are thought to be a form optimized through their evolution, in structural systems. Mathematical models express the form of seashells, and one of these is the Ubukata model, which was proposed specifically for Bivalvia. We used this model and a model created from computed tomography (CT) images to identify the parameters of the mathematical model. In addition, we performed geometric and mechanical analysis on both models and compared them. In carrying out this research, I developed an application that makes it easier to research the shell of Bivalvia. Building this application as an extension tool of Grasshopper has improved compatibility with architectural engineering research. This application can create a point cloud of Bivalvia shell form by inputting a CT image or a simple oval shape as the aperture and setting a few parameters. Combining it with packages within Grasshopper that enable mechanical analysis and optimization, we can perform research focusing on the shells of Bivalvia more easily. Furthermore, Rhinoceros can output with many file types, so it is possible to use the output data with other software. This tool is planned to add more functions to support development research focusing on collaboration with the morphology of seashells and structure engineering.