Form finding is the process by which the optimal shape and size of a structure is defined so as to withstand loads with an efficient employment of material.
calculating an equilibrium state for a structure given a set of applied loads and boundary conditions while minimizing/maximizing some objective function.
Form finding is a process of determining the optimal shape of a structure for a given set of loads and constraints (material and geometric). Form finding uses analytical and numerical methods to minim
ize deformation and stresses, while maximizing stability and efficiency. Other design constraints can be incorporated as desired.
Form finding, as opposed to form giving (design), is the method of implicitly creating forms (shapes) by mimicking a physical process. The idea is akin to darwinism that the form resulting from a phys
ical process will be optimal since it minimizes an energy potential.
Form finding encapsulates a family of methods to generate a shape for a structure such that the structure is in a state of static equilibrium under a design load and a set of support conditions.