Research on Parametric Morphogenesis Design Method Driven by Coupling of Magnetic Field Algorithm and Structural Mechanics:A Case Study of the Baiyun Mountain South Gate Engineering Project

SU Chaohao; LU Shanli; REN Ziyang; WANG Zian; WU Zhongping

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1000-0232.2025.10.008

Abstract：Parametric design driven by structural performance is playing an increasingly critical role in both formal innovation and structural optimization.However,its in-depth application still faces several challenges,including limited technical diversity,relatively simplistic coupling mechanisms,and delays in cross-platform data interaction.In response,this study proposes a performance-driven parametric cooperative design method that integrates structural mechanics with intelligent optimization algorithms.By establishing a three-phase workflow—"algorithmic form-generation,mechanical coupling,and performance iteration"—the research explores an efficient form-finding approach for novel spatial structures. Innovatively,the magnetic field algorithm is introduced into architectural morphogenesis.Within the Rhino-Grasshopper parametric platform,a magnetic field algorithm component is implemented to simulate vector distributions via key parameters-such as magnetic pole arrangement,field strength,attenuation coefficient,and polarity-to generate smooth and natural floral-shaped topological configurations.Subsequently,a structural mechanics coupling module is developed to establish a dynamic mapping relationship between geometric parameters and mechanical responses.Finally,a multi-objective optimization model based on a genetic algorithm is constructed to enable the co-evolution of form and performance,resulting in a database of over 100 floral-shaped canopy structural configurations. The method was applied in the design of the South Gate project of Baiyun Mountain in Guangzhou.Drawing inspiration from the local kapok flower and the cultural imagery of"white clouds,"the magnetic field algorithm and structural mechanics were coupled to drive the form generation.Key variables-such as the number,location,and radius of the canopies,as well as the configuration of interfering magnetic poles-were defined based on site conditions and functional requirements.Iterative computations yielded a database of convergent structural solutions,providing diverse alternatives for design comparison.This approach successfully achieved a digital translation of Guangzhou's cultural identity,resulting in a cloud-like canopy structure that integrates structural efficiency with artistic expression. Through systematic experimental validation and engineering case analysis,the following conclusions are drawn: 1.The integration of the magnetic field algorithm with structural mechanics enables dynamic coupling and real-time collaborative control between algorithmic form-generation and structural feedback,effectively producing diverse and structurally efficient floral canopy topologies. 2.The proposed concept of"interactive canopy structural configurations,"along with corresponding modeling,simulation,and computational verification,demonstrates a viable technical pathway for converting mathematically generated models into mechanically valid structures,offering methodological support for the realization of complex geometric forms. 3.The incorporation of intelligent algorithms,such as genetic algorithms,significantly enhances the efficiency of handling multi-variable,highly constrained,and multi-objective optimization problems.The method efficiently generates large databases of structurally convergent configurations and establishes traceable and quantifiable"form-performance"correlation maps. 4.The successful application in the Baiyun Mountain gate project illustrates the method's ability to produce structurally rational and architecturally expressive floral-shaped canopies,validating its technical feasibility and engineering applicability in balancing environmental adaptation,structural performance,and spatial aesthetics. The study demonstrates that the proposed parametric cooperative design framework,through its closed-loop feedback mechanism between form generation and performance optimization,effectively resolves the conflict between architectural creativity and structural rationality.It provides a replicable solution for the intelligent design of complex spatial structures in the digital era.