Form Finding.
A Surface project starts with a flat sheet of fabric. The user fixes particular points on the sheet to particular points in space. Surface then finds the smooth shape that an unpressurised taut membrane surface would take up when constrained by these fixed points. The final shape can be influenced by the addition of reinforcing cables or belts and by modifying the membrane tensions.
Patterning
This is the process of determining the shape and size of the panels that need to be cut from a roll of fabric and joined together to form the actual canopy whose form was determined in stage 1. Naturally there will be many different possible ways of arranging the individual panels and SURFACE allows the user to arrange the panels in different way depending on requirements.
In particular, the program allows geodesic seam lines to be selected joining pairs of points at any positions on the tent so that the best use is made of material with easier fabrication and better appearance.
Once the seam lines have been determined, the shape of the individual flat panels may be calculated and displayed. The alignment of the panels in relation to the warp and fill threads of the material may then be specified for each panel and a series of file output options to meet almost any contingency are offered.
Here's your part.
Cut out and put together your shape in the sure knowledge that it will be right first time!