Behind the complexity of a folded paper

Due the widespread use of IT tools in architecture, the ideological boundary between physical and virtual model became blurry: this barrier is overpassed through the hybridation of several techniques for acquiring geometries. In particular, reverse engineering can be applied for the acquisition of the geometrical entities used for achieving a virtual model in which embeds information and knowledge as the design process proceeds. In this paper it is shown some results of an on-going research, developing guidelines for improving both physical and virtual modeling processes within the architectural design. The objective is to outline a workflow procedure to ensure designers the highest level of expressive freedom, but at the same time, to connect the most advanced computer systems for simulation project. The digital environment offers new experience of evaluation of a design choice: designer can understand in advance constructive consequences in relation to the whole design process. Moreover, the systematic approach presented is based on the exchange of information through BIM software. Starting from the realization of several study models in folded paper, the geometry is digitally transferred through a handheld scanner (ZCorp Z800) in mesh and elaborated for the extraction of primitive shapes or ruled surfaces. Afterwards, the virtual model is imported in a BIM software and analyzed for achieving useful information for the decision making process (curvature analysis, hypothesis of materials, thickness and so on).