The objective function part of the definition leaves out of the equation model-based / physical form-finding. The first part of the definition is otherwise sweet, accurate and simply. Though I would rephrase that as "the generation of a shape in a state of static equilibrium" to make clear that form-finding is abound form generation. - Peaceful Panda
2023.04.18
Good definition specific to numerical form finding - Faith Eagle
2023.04.14
Form finding does not necessarily need to minimize something: FDM is a form-finding but it does not minimize an objective function unless one imposes some. - Joy Falconer
2023.04.14
Also form finding is not just about calculating an equilibrium state. A hanging chain does not calculate the equilibrium state of an arch for instance (because they are not the same system), but is used to find an optimal arch geometry. - Bliss Tiger
2023.04.12
Why the objective function? How does this related to analog form finding? - Bliss Tiger
2023.04.12