Elements of parametric design

"This book helps designers realize the potential of the parameter in their work. It combines the basic ideas of parametric systems with equally basic ideas from both geometry and computer programming. It uses design patterns as its main tool. A pattern is a generic solution to a shared problem. Using patterns to think and work will help designers master the new complexity imposed on them by parametric modeling. This book explains how to think, model and conceive comples parametric designs. Through design patterns and many examples, it shows designers how to lift their knowledge and skill out of the CAD toolbox into higher levels of design thinking and action."--Back cover.

What is parametric modeling? -- How designers use parameters : Conventional and parametric ; New skills ; New strategies -- Programming : Values ; Variables ; Expressions ; Statements ; Control statements ; Functions ; Types ; Objects, classes and methods ; Data structures, viz. lists ; conventions for this book ; It's more than writing code ; Parameter + Algorithm ; End-user programming -- The new Elephant House : Capturing design intent ; The torus ; Structure generator ; Frit generator -- Geometry : Vectors and points ; Lines in 2D ; Lines in 3D ; Planes ; Coordinate systems [equivalent] frames ; Geometrically significant vector bases ; Composing vector bases ; Intersections ; Curves ; Parametric surfaces -- Geometric gestures : Geometrical fluidity: White Magnolia Tower ; Designing with bits: Nanjing South Station ; Alternative design thinking -- Patterns for parametric design : The structure of design patterns ; Learning parametric modeling with patterns ; Working with design patterns ; Writing design patterns ; Clear names ; Controller ; Jig ; Increment ; Point collection ; Place holder ; Projection ; Reactor ; Reporter ; Selector ; Mapping ; Recursion ; Goal seeker -- Desig…