What Is the Digital Modeling Workflow for Complex UHPC Shapes? A Fully Digital Technology System from Concept to Manufacturing

Digital modeling of complex UHPC forms is the core bridge connecting creative design and physical construction, with a workflow covering four major stages: 3D scanning, parametric design, structural optimization, and manufacturing data output. As the Qinglong Group, with 28 years of deep expertise in the UHPC field, we have built an integrated digital workflow of "scanning-modeling-simulation-output" based on our practice in national-level landmark projects such as the "Red Lantern" double-curved form of the Wuhan Han Show Theatre and the translucent UHPC at Shanghai Century Plaza. Point cloud data of physical models is captured through high-precision 3D laser scanning (accuracy ±0.1mm), imported into Rhino+Grasshopper for parametric reconstruction, verified for mechanical performance through finite element analysis, and finally CNC machining code is generated to drive five-axis machines for mold fabrication, controlling design deviation within ±2mm and achieving precise translation of artistic forms.

Data acquisition is the starting point of digital modeling. For projects with existing physical models or historical building renovations, we use handheld laser scanners to capture tens of millions of point cloud data points, then remove noise and reconstruct surfaces with software such as Geomagic to generate editable NURBS surfaces. In the double-curved curtain wall project of China Resources MixC in Wuxiang, Nanning, we scanned the 1:10 physical model built by the architect and completed digital reverse engineering within 48 hours, laying the foundation for subsequent design. For entirely new designs, BIM software is used directly for parametric modeling, generating complex curved surfaces through algorithms and adjusting parameters in real time to optimize the form.

Parametric design is the key to realizing complex forms. Qinglong Group has developed a proprietary UHPC component library that modularizes common design elements (such as double-curved surfaces, openwork patterns, and textures), allowing designers to quickly generate variant schemes by adjusting parameters. In the wave-shaped roof design of the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center, by setting parameters such as wavelength, wave height, and curvature, machining data for tens of thousands of differentiated panels was automatically generated, improving efficiency by 60%. Constructability analysis is also performed to check process constraints such as whether negative angles exist and whether the minimum curvature radius meets standards, avoiding production risks in advance.

Digital simulation ensures structural soundness. The model is imported into ANSYS to simulate load conditions such as wind loads and seismic actions, optimizing panel thickness and stiffening rib layout. In the Yirui Biotech Building project in Shenzhen, fluid dynamics analysis was used to optimize the curved surface form, reducing the wind pressure coefficient by 15%. Finally, manufacturing data is output, including mold machining paths, fiber spraying trajectories, and more. Through this digital workflow, Qinglong Group has shortened the traditional design cycle of several weeks to 7-10 days, achieving seamless integration of "design as production".