doctoral research at ETH Zurich
Smooth Poly-Hypar Surface Structure
Publications
constrution - informed freeform surface strucutres
Smooth Poly‑hypar Surface Structures: Freeform Shells
Based on Combinations of Hyperbolic Paraboloids
This article presents a new approach to the design of free-form shells: smooth poly-hypar surface structures. As combinations of hyperbolic paraboloids (hypars), smooth poly-hypar surfaces are ruled locally while globally appearing to be continuous freeform.
Design and fabrication of smooth poly-hypar
timber gridshells
Compared to elastic timber gridshell designed through form-finding method, smooth poly-hypar timber gridshells have more advantages in terms of structural behaviour and construction method. Structurally, smooth poly-hypar gridshells are able to resist different loading cases with mainly membrane actions. In terms of construction, as a locally ruled surface, it can be prefabricated in modules with straight components, which effectively reduces the construction cost.
strucutreal - architectrual integrated design theory
Solar Ark 3.0: A lightweight, energy-efficient
house based on smooth poly-hypar surface structures
This research addresses energy consumption challenges in the design and construction of concrete freeform surface architecture. It proposes an integrated design approach centered on smooth poly-hypar surfaces, serving as a mediator to amalgamate architectural smoothness, structural stiffness, construction convenience, and building energy efficiency
from the initial design phase.
reusable sturcutres
Design of prestressed gridshells as smooth poly-hypar surface structures
In a smooth poly-hypar surface, the double curvature of the individual hypar modules and the smooth connections between them
ensure global bending-free structural behaviour. In this article, the structural analysis of a prestressed gridshell as a smooth poly-hypar surface is introduced. Graphic statics is used to evaluate and control the distribution of internal forces within the structure.
Smooth poly-hypar membrane structure: A strut-and-membrane system based on combinations of hyperbolic paraboloids
This paper introduces the two fundamental prototypes and outlines the form-making strategies for creating smooth poly-hypar surfaces for various design options based on these prototypes. It also showcases a practical application of this innovative structural system through an experimental
project, the Hypar Umbrella.
SPECIAL ISSUES & BOOKS
special issues & guest editor
Guest editor of "Structural Thinking That Integrates Art and Technologies" Special Issue, Architectural Journal, 2022
Guest editor of “Design-oriented Technical Teaching in Architecture" Special Issue, Architectural Journal, 2024
The Artistic Presentation of Structural Rationality: An Abstract Perspective of Force Flow
This paper re-examines and reinterprets the relationship between structure and architecture from the perspective of abstract force flows. By exploring the connection between abstract structural equilibrium and architectural composition, it seeks to propose a design methodology that integrates structural logic with architectural artistry.
The Structure and Construction of Long Tables: An Exploration in Construction Design Instruction
Using the design task of a wooden long table as a vehicle, guide students through the entire process from design and drafting to construction. Understand the logical connections between the overall form and structural stability, the properties of timber, and the methods of joining components. Grasp the close relationship between design and construction.
Guest editor of "Strong Structures" Special Issue, The Architect, 2021
Guest editor of “Structural Thinking Beyond Typology " Special Issue, Time+Architecture, 2022
BOOKS
Muttoni, Aurelio. The art of structures: introduction to the functioning of structures in architecture. EPFL Press. Chinese translators: Cao Ting, Wan Zongshuai. Southeast University Press. 2025
Cao Ting, Wang Shuaizhong. Graphic Structural Design. China Architectural Industry Press.2026