Claude Skills For Computational Designers

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Claude skills for Computational Designers

Claude Skills For Computational Designers is an open-source agent skill by Abhinavbwj, written mainly in Python, with 224 GitHub stars and the MIT license. Its code was last updated Mar 26, 2026.

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Computational Design Skills

A Claude Code Skills Plugin for Computational Designers

18 interconnected skills covering computational geometry, parametric modeling, generative design, structural computation, environmental simulation, facade engineering, digital fabrication, BIM scripting, and machine learning for AEC. References 50+ pioneers, 30+ tools, 6+ analysis engines, and hundreds of numeric benchmarks. Includes 7 Python calculators for geometry, structural checking, solar analysis, panel optimization, mesh analysis, material estimation, and fabrication costing.

35,000+ lines | 75+ files | 18 skills | 7 Python calculators

Quick Start
How It Works
Skills Reference
Computational Design Calculator
Knowledge Base
Architecture
Example Prompts
Stats
Author & License

Quick Start

Option 1: Use as a Plugin

claude --plugin-dir "/path/to/Computational Design Skills"

Option 2: Copy to Your Project

cp -r skills/ your-project/.claude/skills/

Once installed, just ask Claude anything about computational design, parametric modeling, generative algorithms, structural analysis, facade engineering, or digital fabrication. The system activates automatically - no slash commands required for most tasks.

How It Works

Computational Design Skills uses a progressive disclosure architecture to stay lean while encoding deep technical knowledge:

User asks anything about computational design
        |
        v
cd-foundations (auto-fires, invisible to user)
  - Applies baseline knowledge from 50+ frameworks and pioneers
  - Routes to specialized skills as needed
        |
        v
Specialized skill loads (e.g., parametric-modeling, facade-computation)
  - Follows structured workflow
  - Loads deep reference files on demand
        |
        v
cd-calculator provides precise computations when needed
  - 7 Python scripts for geometry, structural checking, solar
    analysis, panel optimization, mesh analysis, material
    estimation, and fabrication costing

Three-Layer Context Management

Layer	What Loads	When	Size
Layer 0	Skill names + descriptions only	Always in context	~16KB
Layer 1	Full SKILL.md body	On skill invocation	~350-900 lines each
Layer 2	Reference files, templates, scripts	Only when explicitly needed	Varies

This keeps the context window efficient. Claude never loads knowledge it doesn't need for the current task.

Skills Reference

1. Foundation (Auto-Activated)

`cd-foundations`

Invocation: Automatic (invisible to user) - Claude-only, not user-invocable

The foundation layer. Auto-fires on any computational design context and provides:

Pioneer Quick-Reference Matrix - 25+ pioneers with key contributions, methods, and computational paradigms (Frei Otto, Greg Lynn, Patrik Schumacher, Mark Burry, Achim Menges, Robert Aish, and more)
Computational Design Taxonomy - Classification of 12 computational paradigms: parametric, generative, algorithmic, evolutionary, agent-based, physics-based, data-driven, topological, mesh-based, voxel-based, graph-based, and ML-driven
Geometric Primitives & Operations - NURBS, B-splines, subdivision surfaces, mesh operations, boolean operations, convex hulls, Voronoi, Delaunay, offset curves, lofting, sweeping
Tool Ecosystem Map - 30+ tools cross-referenced: Rhino, Grasshopper, Dynamo, Revit API, Houdini, Processing, OpenSCAD, Blender Geometry Nodes, Unity, Unreal, TouchDesigner, FreeCAD
Anti-Pattern Catalog - Common computational design failures: over-parameterization, mesh quality collapse, solver divergence, fabrication-ignorant design
Skill Router - Decision tree that activates specialized skills based on user context

Reference files (loaded on demand):

pioneers-and-movements.md - Full treatment of all pioneers and computational movements
core-concepts.md - Complete mathematical and geometric reference
tools-ecosystem.md - Detailed tool comparison, API surfaces, interoperability matrix
learning-pathways.md - Beginner-to-expert learning roadmaps by tool and domain

2. Core Design

`parametric-modeling`

Invocation: /parametric-modeling or auto-activates on parametric/parameter-driven context

Parametric design methodology and pattern authoring:

Parametric thinking framework - From design intent to parameter identification to dependency graph (DAG) construction, with lazy vs. eager evaluation
Grasshopper component mapping - 200+ components organized by category with input/output signatures, plus Dynamo node equivalents for cross-platform workflows
Data tree manipulation - Graft, flatten, flip, path mapper, branching trees, and history tree patterns for complex parametric definitions
Parametric facade systems - Attractor-based, field-driven, image-sampled, data-mapped panel variation with design space exploration
Performance feedback loops - Structural, environmental, and cost metrics driving parameter adjustment in real time

Reference files: grasshopper-patterns.md, dynamo-patterns.md, data-structures.md

`generative-design`

Invocation: /generative-design or auto-activates on generative/evolutionary/optimization context

Generative and evolutionary design systems:

Generative algorithms taxonomy - L-systems, cellular automata, agent-based modeling, shape grammars, space syntax generation, wave function collapse, graph grammars
Evolutionary optimization - Genetic algorithms (GA), NSGA-II for multi-objective, CMA-ES, differential evolution, particle swarm optimization with convergence diagnostics
Fitness function design - Single-objective, multi-objective, constraint handling, penalty methods, feasibility-first ranking
Generative floorplans & massing - Adjacency-based generation, stacking diagrams, voxel-based massing, solar envelope generation, view corridor preservation
Genotype-phenotype mapping - Direct encoding, indirect (developmental) encoding, grammatical encoding, neural network encoding

Reference files: evolutionary-algorithms.md, fitness-functions.md

`computational-geometry`

Invocation: /computational-geometry or auto-activates on geometry/NURBS/mesh/surface context

Core computational geometry methods for AEC:

Curve & surface mathematics - Bezier, B-spline, NURBS with knot vectors, T-splines, subdivision surfaces (Catmull-Clark, Loop, Doo-Sabin), parametric domains, trimming
Solid modeling - CSG (constructive solid geometry), B-rep (boundary representation), voxel grids, implicit surfaces, signed distance fields
Intersection & boolean operations - Curve-curve, curve-surface, surface-surface, ray-mesh intersection, union/difference/intersection with robustness strategies
Voronoi, Delaunay & convex hull - 2D/3D Voronoi diagrams, weighted/centroidal Voronoi, Delaunay triangulation, Graham scan, Quickhull, Minkowski sum/difference
Spatial indexing & robustness - BVH, k-d trees, octrees, R-trees, floating-point pitfalls, exact arithmetic, snap rounding, geometric predicates

Reference files: nurbs-reference.md, mesh-fundamentals.md, tessellation-methods.md

`algorithmic-patterns`

Invocation: /algorithmic-patterns or auto-activates on pattern/tiling/tessellation context

Algorithmic pattern generation and tiling systems:

Tessellation library - Regular (3), semi-regular (8), demi-regular (14), Penrose (2), Ammann-Beenker, pinwheel, aperiodic Hat monotile (2023), Spectre tile
Islamic geometry construction - Compass-and-straightedge methods, star polygon generation, girih tiles (5 types), muqarnas vaulting algorithms
Fractal and recursive patterns - Sierpinski, Koch, Hilbert curve, L-system grammars for botanical modeling, reaction-diffusion (Gray-Scott, Turing)
Attractor fields & packing - Point/curve/surface attractors, inverse-distance weighting, Gaussian falloff, circle packing (Apollonius), sphere packing, bin packing for nesting
Weaving and interlocking - Warp-weft logic, triaxial weaving, reciprocal frame structures, kagome lattice

Reference files: pattern-catalog.md, biological-computation.md

3. Analysis & Simulation

`structural-computation`

Invocation: /structural-computation or auto-activates on structural/FEA/load/stress context

Structural analysis and form-finding for AEC:

Form-finding methods - Force density method, dynamic relaxation, thrust network analysis, particle-spring systems, hanging chain models, graphic statics
Finite element fundamentals - Element types (bar, beam, shell, solid), shape functions, stiffness matrix assembly, boundary conditions, load cases
Shell & tensile structures - Gaussian curvature analysis, funicular shells, gridshells, membrane form-finding, cable-net analysis, minimal surfaces, patterning and compensation
Structural optimization - Topology optimization (SIMP), size and shape optimization, compliance minimization, stress constraints, load path visualization
Quick checks - Span-to-depth ratios for 12 structural systems, approximate member sizing, deflection limits (L/250, L/360), steel/concrete/timber rule-of-thumb tables

Reference files: form-finding-methods.md, fea-fundamentals.md, topology-optimization.md

`environmental-simulation`

Invocation: /environmental-simulation or auto-activates on solar/wind/daylight/thermal/acoustic context

Environmental performance simulation for buildings and urban contexts:

Solar & daylight - Sun path diagrams, shadow studies, radiation maps (kWh/m2), daylight factor, spatial daylight autonomy (sDA300/50%), annual sunlight exposure (ASE1000/250h), Radiance/DAYSIM parameters
Wind & thermal - CFD fundamentals (RANS, LES), Lawson comfort criteria, natural ventilation potential, U-value calculation, adaptive comfort (EN 15251), PMV/PPD
Acoustic modeling - Room acoustics (RT60, EDT, C80), urban noise mapping, STC, speech intelligibility (STI), noise barrier design
Energy & carbon - EnergyPlus/IES VE inputs, HVAC system selection, operational carbon, embodied carbon (kgCO2e/m2), whole-life carbon assessment
Microclimate - UTCI outdoor thermal comfort, mean radiant temperature, sky view factor, urban heat island quantification

Reference files: daylight-standards.md, cfd-basics.md, energy-modeling.md

4. Fabrication & Production

`facade-computation`

Invocation: /facade-computation or auto-activates on facade/panel/curtain wall/cladding context

Facade engineering and panelization computation:

Panelization strategies - Planar quad, planar triangle, ruled surface, single-curved developable, double-curved formed, cold-bent glass, mold-cast, 3D-printed
Rationalization algorithms - Planar remeshing (PQ mesh), conical mesh, circular mesh, edge offset mesh, curvature-based segmentation, panel clustering for mold reuse
Curtain wall systems - Stick, unitized, point-fixed, cable-net, structural glazing, double-skin, media facade, kinetic facade
Glass engineering - Float, tempered, laminated, IGU, vacuum glass, maximum panel sizes, cold-bending limits (L/100), structural silicone joint design, SHGC/VLT/Rw performance
Manufacturing output - DXF/STEP per-panel exports, flat pattern development, nesting optimization, CNC toolpath parameters

Reference files: panelization-methods.md, rationalization-techniques.md, kinetic-systems.md

`digital-fabrication`

Invocation: /digital-fabrication or auto-activates on fabrication/CNC/3D printing/robotic context

Digital fabrication methods and file-to-factory workflows:

Subtractive - 3-axis/5-axis CNC milling (wood, foam, aluminum), waterjet cutting, laser cutting (metals, acrylics, plywood), wire EDM
Additive - FDM/FFF, SLA/DLP, SLS, binder jetting, concrete 3D printing (contour crafting, COBOD), large-scale polymer printing
Robotic fabrication - 6-axis industrial robots, end effector design, robotic hot-wire cutting, incremental sheet forming, cooperative multi-robot assembly
Joinery & connections - CNC timber joints (mortise-tenon, dovetail, finger, scarf), parametric joint generation, metal connections, material constraints (bend radii, kerf, grain)
File-to-factory pipeline - Design-to-fabrication model, tolerance stack-up, assembly sequence, shipping constraints, cost model (machine time, setup, material, finishing)

Reference files: cnc-reference.md, additive-manufacturing.md, robotic-fabrication.md

5. BIM & Integration

`bim-scripting`

Invocation: /bim-scripting or auto-activates on Revit API/Dynamo/BIM automation context

BIM scripting and automation for Revit, ArchiCAD, and IFC:

Revit API - Document/Element/Parameter/Transaction model, FilteredElementCollector patterns, element creation/modification, pyRevit framework (IronPython, CPython)
Dynamo for Revit - Node-based visual scripting, Python Script nodes, custom packages (Clockwork, Springs, Rhythm, BimorphNodes)
IFC schema - IFC4x3 entity hierarchy, IfcProduct subtypes, IfcPropertySet, IfcRelationship, MVD (Model View Definition)
15 automation recipes - Room data sheets, schedule export, clash report parsing, parameter mapping, family batch editing, model quality checks
CI/CD for BIM - Model checking pipelines, automated exports, version control (Git-LFS, BIM360, ACC), classification compliance (Uniclass, OmniClass)

Reference files: revit-api-reference.md, ifc-schema.md

`interoperability`

Invocation: /interoperability or auto-activates on file exchange/format/import/export context

Cross-platform data exchange and format translation:

Geometry formats - OBJ, STL, PLY, 3DM, STEP, IGES, SAT, Parasolid, glTF/GLB, USD, FBX, DXF/DWG with capability matrix
BIM & GIS formats - IFC (2x3, 4, 4x3), RVT, gbXML, CityGML/CityJSON, Shapefile, GeoJSON, GeoPackage, LAS/LAZ point clouds
Exchange workflows - Rhino to Revit (7 methods), Grasshopper to Dynamo, Revit to Unreal/Unity, GIS to BIM, BIM to fabrication
API bridges - Rhino.Inside.Revit, Speckle, Hypar, Trimble Connect, Autodesk Platform Services, McNeel Compute
Coordinate systems & data loss - WCS/UCS, project/survey base points, CRS in GIS, georeferencing, round-trip fidelity testing

Reference files: format-reference.md, pipeline-patterns.md

`scripting-reference`

Invocation: /scripting-reference or auto-activates on RhinoScript/Python/C#/GhPython context

Programming reference for AEC computational design environments:

RhinoCommon & GhPython - Geometry classes (Point3d, Curve, Brep, Mesh), DataTree access, custom component development, display conduits
Python for AEC - NumPy for geometry arrays, SciPy for optimization, Shapely for 2D, Trimesh for meshes, Open3D for point clouds, PyVista for visualization
C++ geometry kernels - OpenCASCADE, CGAL, libigl, Eigen, OpenMesh for half-edge mesh
JavaScript / TypeScript - Three.js, Rhino3dm.js, IFC.js, CesiumJS, WebGPU compute shaders
Performance patterns - Vectorized operations, spatial hashing, level-of-detail, instancing, GPU acceleration (CUDA, OpenCL)

Reference files: csharp-grasshopper.md, python-rhino-reference.md, web-3d-reference.md

6. Optimization & Intelligence

`optimization-methods`

Invocation: /optimization-methods or auto-activates on optimization/solver/objective/constraint context

Optimization algorithms and methods for design problems:

Single-objective - Gradient descent, Newton's method, Nelder-Mead, simulated annealing, tabu search, BFGS/L-BFGS
Multi-objective - NSGA-II, NSGA-III, MOEA/D, epsilon-constraint, Pareto front visualization and selection
Topology optimization - SIMP, BESO, level-set methods, homogenization for structural material distribution
Layout & shape optimization - Space allocation, adjacency satisfaction, free-form deformation (FFD), RBF morphing, adjoint methods
Surrogate models - Kriging/Gaussian process, RBF, polynomial response surface, neural network surrogates, Bayesian optimization

Reference files: algorithm-catalog.md, implementation-guide.md

`data-driven-design`

Invocation: /data-driven-design or auto-activates on data/analysis/visualization/sensing context

Data-driven approaches to design decision-making:

Sensor data & POE - IoT sensor types (temperature, humidity, CO2, occupancy, light), post-occupancy evaluation methodology, behavioral mapping
Spatial data analysis - Kernel density estimation, spatial autocorrelation (Moran's I), space syntax integration, visibility graph analysis
Design space mapping - Parallel coordinates, t-SNE/UMAP, clustering (k-means, DBSCAN), sensitivity analysis (Sobol indices, Morris method)
Urban data - OpenStreetMap, building footprints, census, mobility traces, transit feeds, satellite imagery classification
Visualization - Heatmaps, isosurfaces, vector fields, AR/VR data overlays, dashboards (Grafana, D3.js)

Reference files: gis-integration.md, sensor-data.md, space-syntax.md

`mesh-processing`

Invocation: /mesh-processing or auto-activates on mesh/subdivision/remeshing/topology context

Mesh generation, analysis, and processing for AEC geometry:

Mesh generation - Delaunay triangulation, advancing front, Marching Cubes, Dual Contouring, tetrahedral meshing (TetGen, Gmsh)
Quality & subdivision - Aspect ratio, minimum angle, Jacobian, skewness metrics, Catmull-Clark, Loop, Doo-Sabin, Butterfly, crease edges
Remeshing - Isotropic, anisotropic (curvature-adapted), quad-dominant, instant meshes, frame-field based methods
Mesh repair - Non-manifold detection, hole filling, self-intersection removal, normal consistency, QEM edge collapse simplification
Half-edge data structure - Implementation patterns, traversal algorithms, Euler operators, topological queries, large-scale out-of-core processing

Reference files: mesh-operations-catalog.md, mesh-quality.md

`design-automation`

Invocation: /design-automation or auto-activates on automation/workflow/pipeline/batch context

Design process automation and workflow orchestration:

Automation taxonomy - Rule-based, template-based, constraint-based, AI-assisted, fully autonomous with appropriate use cases
Parametric templates - Design template authoring, parameter binding, variant generation, batch output, configuration management
Workflow orchestration - DAG-based task scheduling, dependency resolution, parallel execution, human-in-the-loop checkpoints
Drawing automation - Automated plan/section/elevation generation, dimensioning, annotation, title block population, sheet set management
Testing & versioning - Unit testing parametric definitions, regression testing, golden file comparison, design version control and branching

Reference files: rule-systems.md, space-planning.md

`ml-for-aec`

Invocation: /ml-for-aec or auto-activates on machine learning/neural network/AI/prediction context

Machine learning and AI applications in architecture, engineering, and construction:

Supervised learning - Energy prediction (Random Forest, XGBoost), structural performance prediction, cost estimation, occupancy prediction, material classification
Generative models - GANs for floorplan generation (pix2pix, StyleGAN), VAE for design exploration, diffusion models for 3D, graph neural networks for layout
Computer vision - Construction progress monitoring, defect detection, as-built vs. as-designed comparison, point cloud segmentation (PointNet++)
RL & physics-informed ML - HVAC optimization, construction scheduling, robotic assembly paths, PINNs for structural analysis, neural operators for PDE solving
NLP & MLOps - Building code parsing, specification extraction, compliance checking, data collection from BIM, model training pipelines, deployment in design tools

Reference files: cv-applications.md, generative-models.md, prediction-models.md

7. Computation

`cd-calculator`

Invocation: /cd-calculator or auto-activates when computation is needed

7 Python calculators for precise computational design metrics. See Computational Design Calculator section below for full usage.

Scripts: geometry_calculator.py, structural_checker.py, solar_calculator.py, panel_optimizer.py, mesh_analyzer.py, material_estimator.py, fabrication_calculator.py Reference files: formulas.md

Computational Design Calculator

All calculators output human-readable formatted text by default, with a --json flag for structured output.

Geometry Calculator

Compute cross-section properties for common structural shapes: area, perimeter, centroid, moments of inertia, section moduli, and radii of gyration. All inputs in millimeters.

python geometry_calculator.py --shape rectangle --width 300 --height 500
python geometry_calculator.py --shape i-beam --width 200 --height 400 --flange-thickness 15 --web-thickness 10

Parameter	Description	Default
`--shape`	Shape type: `rectangle`, `circle`, `triangle`, `i-beam`, `hollow-rect`, `hollow-circle`, `l-shape`, `t-shape`, `polygon`	Required
`--width`	Width in mm	-
`--height`	Height in mm	-
`--radius`	Radius in mm	-
`--outer-radius`	Outer radius in mm	-
`--inner-radius`	Inner radius in mm	-
`--base`	Base width in mm (triangle)	-
`--flange-thickness`	Flange thickness in mm	-
`--web-thickness`	Web thickness in mm	-
`--wall-thickness`	Wall thickness in mm	-
`--thickness`	Leg thickness in mm (L-shape)	-
`--vertices`	Polygon vertices as `x1,y1;x2,y2;...`	-
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Structural Checker

Quick structural sizing and verification for steel members based on simplified Eurocode 3 / ASCE formulas.

python structural_checker.py --check beam --span 6000 --load 15 --steel-grade S355
python structural_checker.py --check column --load 2000 --height 4000
python structural_checker.py --check deflection --span 8000 --load 10 --section IPE300

Parameter	Description	Default
`--check`	Check type: `beam`, `column`, `deflection`	Required
`--span`	Beam span or length in mm	-
`--load`	UDL (kN/m) for beams, axial load (kN) for columns	-
`--steel-grade`	Steel grade: `S235`, `S275`, `S355`, `S460`	S355
`--height`	Column height in mm	-
`--buckling-length-factor`	Effective length factor k	1.0
`--section`	Named section (e.g. `IPE300`)	-
`--moment-of-inertia`	Section Ix in mm^4 (for deflection check)	-
`--deflection-limit`	Deflection limit (e.g. `L/250`)	L/250
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Solar Calculator

Compute solar position, shadow geometry, PV parameters, and annual radiation for any location. Based on Spencer (1971) and ASHRAE solar geometry equations.

python solar_calculator.py --latitude 51.5 --longitude -0.12 --date 2025-06-21 --time 12:00
python solar_calculator.py --latitude 25.2 --longitude 55.3 --annual-summary
python solar_calculator.py --latitude 40.7 --longitude -74.0 --shadow-analysis --object-height 30

Parameter	Description	Default
`--latitude`	Site latitude (-90 to 90)	Required
`--longitude`	Site longitude (-180 to 180)	Required
`--date`	Date as YYYY-MM-DD	-
`--time`	Solar time as HH:MM	12:00
`--annual-summary`	Monthly solar data summary	False
`--shadow-analysis`	Shadow length analysis	False
`--object-height`	Object height in meters (for shadow analysis)	10.0
`--pv-tilt`	Optimal PV tilt calculation	False
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Panel Optimizer

Rationalize facade panel inventories by clustering similar panel dimensions within configurable tolerance. Estimates material waste and cost impacts.

python panel_optimizer.py --panels "1200x800,1200x810,1500x900,1500x895" --tolerance 15
python panel_optimizer.py --panels "1200x800,1200x810" --sheet-width 2500 --sheet-height 1250

Parameter	Description	Default
`--panels`	Comma-separated panel dimensions WxH in mm (e.g. `1200x800,1200x810`)	Required
`--tolerance`	Grouping tolerance in mm	10
`--sheet-width`	Raw sheet width in mm	-
`--sheet-height`	Raw sheet height in mm	-
`--cost-per-unique`	Cost premium per unique panel type	500
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Mesh Analyzer

Evaluate mesh quality and topological properties for architectural meshes. Reads OBJ files or accepts inline vertex/face data. Computes vertex/face/edge count, Euler characteristic, genus, manifold check, boundary edges, face area statistics, aspect ratios, normal consistency, and bounding box.

python mesh_analyzer.py --file model.obj
python mesh_analyzer.py --vertices "0,0,0;1,0,0;0.5,1,0;0.5,0.5,1" --faces "0,1,2;0,1,3;1,2,3;0,2,3"

Parameter	Description	Default
`--file`	Path to OBJ file	-
`--vertices`	Inline vertices: `x,y,z;x,y,z;...`	-
`--faces`	Inline faces: `i,j,k;i,j,k;...`	-
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Material Estimator

Estimate material quantities, weights, and embodied carbon for buildings at early design stage. Two modes: parametric (from building type and GFA) or direct (from explicit material volumes/areas).

python material_estimator.py --building-type office --gfa 5000 --floors 12 --include-embodied-carbon
python material_estimator.py --concrete-volume 800 --steel-ratio 120 --glass-area 2000

Parameter	Description	Default
`--building-type`	Building type: `residential`, `office`, `industrial`, `retail`	-
`--gfa`	Gross floor area in m2	-
`--floors`	Number of floors	-
`--concrete-volume`	Concrete volume in m3	-
`--steel-ratio`	Rebar ratio in kg/m3 of concrete	-
`--glass-area`	Glass area in m2	-
`--timber-volume`	Timber volume in m3	-
`--waste-factor`	Override waste factor (e.g. 1.10)	-
`--include-embodied-carbon`	Calculate embodied carbon	False
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Fabrication Calculator

Estimate fabrication time and cost for CNC milling, FDM 3D printing, and laser cutting. Uses industry-standard feed rates, material costs, and process parameters.

python fabrication_calculator.py --process cnc-milling --path-length 5000 --tool-changes 3 --material wood
python fabrication_calculator.py --process 3d-print --volume 500 --height 200 --layer-height 0.2
python fabrication_calculator.py --process laser-cut --cut-length 8000 --material acrylic --thickness 6

Parameter	Description	Default
`--process`	Fabrication process: `cnc-milling`, `3d-print`, `laser-cut`	Required
`--path-length`	CNC tool path length in mm	-
`--tool-changes`	Number of tool changes	0
`--feed-rate`	Override feed rate in mm/min	-
`--volume`	Part volume in cm3 (for 3D printing)	-
`--height`	Print height in mm	-
`--layer-height`	Layer height in mm	0.2
`--infill`	Infill percentage	20
`--cut-length`	Total cut path length in mm (for laser)	-
`--thickness`	Material thickness in mm	-
`--material`	Material type (depends on process)	-
`--hourly-rate`	Machine/labor rate in $/hr	75
`--json`	Output as JSON	False

Knowledge Base

Pioneers & Key Figures

Pioneer	Key Contribution
Frei Otto	Form-finding, minimal surfaces, tensile structures
Greg Lynn	Animate form, blob architecture, computational morphogenesis
Patrik Schumacher	Parametricism manifesto, algorithmic urbanism
Mark Burry	Sagrada Familia digital reconstruction, complex geometry
Achim Menges	Computational design and material systems, ICD/ITKE
Robert Aish	DesignScript, SmartGeometry, building modeling pioneer
Neri Oxman	Material ecology, multi-material 3D printing, bio-computation
Cecil Balmond	Informal structures, algorithmic structural design
Helmut Pottmann	Architectural geometry, discrete differential geometry
Buckminster Fuller	Geodesic domes, tensegrity, synergetics
Felix Candela	Thin-shell concrete, hyperbolic paraboloids
Heinz Isler	Experimental shell structures, hanging model form-finding
Santiago Calatrava	Kinetic structures, bio-inspired engineering
Werner Sobek	Lightweight construction, adaptive facades, ultra-thin glass
Philippe Block	Thrust network analysis, unreinforced stone vaulting (ETH)
Caitlin Mueller	Digital structures, structural optimization (MIT)
Fabian Scheurer	Design-to-production, timber fabrication (designtoproduction)
Michael Hansmeyer	Computational architecture, subdivided columns
Benjamin Dillenburger	Large-scale 3D printing, digital concrete (ETH)
Jenny Sabin	Material computation, responsive architecture
Skylar Tibbits	Self-assembly, 4D printing, programmable materials (MIT)

Tools & Platforms

Category	Tools
Parametric Modeling	Grasshopper, Dynamo, Houdini, Marionette (Vectorworks)
CAD / Modeling	Rhino, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Blender, FreeCAD, Fusion 360
BIM	Revit, ArchiCAD, Tekla Structures, Allplan, Vectorworks
Structural Analysis	Karamba3D, Robot Structural Analysis, SAP2000, ETABS, Sofistik, OpenSees
Environmental Simulation	Ladybug/Honeybee, EnergyPlus, Radiance, DAYSIM, IES VE, DesignBuilder
CFD	OpenFOAM, Butterfly (GH), Autodesk CFD, SimScale, ANSYS Fluent
Fabrication	RoboDK, KUKA
Optimization	Galapagos, Octopus, Opossum, Wallacei, modeFRONTIER
Mesh Processing	MeshLab, CloudCompare, Instant Meshes, libigl, OpenMesh, Trimesh
Visualization	Enscape, Twinmotion, Lumion, V-Ray, Unreal Engine, Unity
Data / GIS	QGIS, ArcGIS, DeckGL, Kepler.gl, Mapbox, CesiumJS
Interoperability	Speckle, Rhino.Inside, Hypar, Trimble Connect, Autodesk Platform Services

International Standards Referenced

Standard	Scope
Eurocode (EN 1990-1999)	Structural design: actions, concrete, steel, timber, masonry, geotechnical
ASHRAE 90.1 / 55	Energy efficiency, thermal comfort
EN 15251 / EN 16798	Indoor environmental quality, adaptive comfort
ISO 52000 series	Energy performance of buildings
BS EN 12464-1	Lighting of work places
ISO 3382	Room acoustics measurement
EN 13501	Fire classification of construction products
IFC (ISO 16739)	Industry Foundation Classes for BIM interoperability
LEED v4 / v4.1	Green building rating system (USGBC)
BREEAM	Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
Passive House (PHI)	Ultra-low energy building standard
BS 7974	Fire safety engineering

Analysis Engines

Engine	Domain	Integration
Karamba3D	Structural FEA (beam, shell)	Grasshopper plugin
Radiance / DAYSIM	Daylight simulation	Honeybee (GH), command line
EnergyPlus	Whole-building energy	Honeybee (GH), OpenStudio
OpenFOAM	CFD (wind, ventilation)	Butterfly (GH), CLI
SAP2000 / ETABS	Structural analysis	API (COM/.NET)
Kangaroo Physics	Real-time physics (form-finding, relaxation)	Grasshopper plugin
ANSYS	Multi-physics (structural, thermal, CFD)	Workbench scripting
Sofistik	Structural FEA (advanced shell, cable)	Rhino/GH plugin

Architecture

skills/
├── cd-foundations/                  # Foundation (auto-fire, Claude-only)
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Pioneer matrix, taxonomy, routing
│   └── references/                  # pioneers-and-movements, core-concepts,
│                                    # tools-ecosystem, learning-pathways
├── parametric-modeling/             # Parametric design
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Parameter types, DAG, feedback loops
│   └── references/                  # grasshopper-patterns, dynamo-patterns,
│                                    # data-structures
├── generative-design/               # Generative & evolutionary
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # GA, NSGA-II, fitness, genotype mapping
│   ├── references/                  # evolutionary-algorithms, fitness-functions
│   └── templates/                   # optimization-report
├── computational-geometry/          # Core geometry
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # NURBS, meshes, booleans, intersection
│   └── references/                  # nurbs-reference, mesh-fundamentals,
│                                    # tessellation-methods
├── algorithmic-patterns/            # Patterns & tessellation
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Tilings, Islamic, fractals, packing
│   └── references/                  # pattern-catalog, biological-computation
├── structural-computation/          # Structural analysis
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Form-finding, FEA, shells, optimization
│   └── references/                  # form-finding-methods, fea-fundamentals,
│                                    # topology-optimization
├── environmental-simulation/        # Environmental performance
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Solar, daylight, wind, thermal, acoustic
│   └── references/                  # daylight-standards, cfd-basics,
│                                    # energy-modeling
├── facade-computation/              # Facade engineering
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Panelization, rationalization, glass
│   └── references/                  # panelization-methods, rationalization-techniques,
│                                    # kinetic-systems
├── digital-fabrication/             # Digital fabrication
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # CNC, 3D print, robotic, joinery
│   ├── references/                  # cnc-reference, additive-manufacturing,
│   │                                # robotic-fabrication
│   └── templates/                   # fabrication-spec
├── bim-scripting/                   # BIM automation
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Revit API, Dynamo, IFC, pyRevit
│   ├── references/                  # revit-api-reference, ifc-schema
│   └── templates/                   # bim-automation-spec
├── interoperability/                # Data exchange
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Formats, workflows, coordinate systems
│   └── references/                  # format-reference, pipeline-patterns
├── scripting-reference/             # Programming reference
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # RhinoCommon, GhPython, C#, JS
│   └── references/                  # csharp-grasshopper, python-rhino-reference,
│                                    # web-3d-reference
├── optimization-methods/            # Optimization
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Single/multi-objective, topology, layout
│   └── references/                  # algorithm-catalog, implementation-guide
├── data-driven-design/              # Data-driven design
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Sensors, POE, spatial analysis, viz
│   └── references/                  # gis-integration, sensor-data,
│                                    # space-syntax
├── mesh-processing/                 # Mesh operations
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Generation, quality, subdivision, repair
│   └── references/                  # mesh-operations-catalog, mesh-quality
├── design-automation/               # Automation
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Templates, rules, workflows, drawing
│   ├── references/                  # rule-systems, space-planning
│   └── templates/                   # automation-workflow
├── ml-for-aec/                      # Machine learning
│   ├── SKILL.md                     # Supervised, GAN, CV, RL, GNN, NLP
│   └── references/                  # cv-applications, generative-models,
│                                    # prediction-models
└── cd-calculator/                   # Computation
    ├── SKILL.md                     # 7 calculators
    ├── scripts/                     # geometry_calculator, structural_checker,
    │                                # solar_calculator, panel_optimizer,
    │                                # mesh_analyzer, material_estimator,
    │                                # fabrication_calculator
    └── references/                  # formulas

Example Prompts

These demonstrate how skills auto-activate - no slash commands needed:

"Design a parametric facade with variable apertures based on solar exposure"
  → cd-foundations + parametric-modeling + facade-computation fire automatically

"What's the optimal panelization for a double-curved glass surface?"
  → facade-computation fires with rationalization algorithms

"Run a quick structural check for a 12m steel beam with 5 kN/m2 load"
  → cd-calculator fires and runs structural_checker.py

"Generate a Voronoi tessellation pattern for this facade"
  → algorithmic-patterns fires with tessellation methods

"How do I set up a Grasshopper definition for an evolutionary facade optimization?"
  → parametric-modeling + generative-design + scripting-reference fire

"Calculate solar radiation on a south-facing surface at 40 degrees latitude"
  → cd-calculator fires and runs solar_calculator.py

"What mesh quality should I target for a structural FEA of a shell?"
  → mesh-processing + structural-computation fire

"Estimate embodied carbon for a 20-story concrete frame building"
  → cd-calculator fires and runs material_estimator.py

"How do I export a Grasshopper model to Revit while preserving parameters?"
  → interoperability fires with exchange workflows

"Train a neural network to predict building energy performance from geometry"
  → ml-for-aec fires with supervised learning methods

"What are the CNC milling parameters for a plywood formwork mold?"
  → digital-fabrication fires with CNC parameters

"Optimize the topology of a concrete slab to minimize material"
  → optimization-methods fires with topology optimization (SIMP)

Slash commands for direct invocation:

/parametric-modeling Design a responsive shading system for a south facade in Dubai
  → Full parametric workflow with solar feedback loop

/structural-computation Form-find a gridshell over a 30m x 15m rectangular plan
  → Force density method with buckling analysis and member sizing

/cd-calculator geometry --shape hollow-circle --outer-radius 150 --inner-radius 100
  → Cross-section properties: area, moments of inertia, section moduli

/facade-computation Panelize a freeform tower envelope with max 500 unique panels
  → Rationalization strategy with clustering, mold reuse, and cost estimate

Stats

Metric	Count
Skills	18 (interconnected with automatic routing)
Total files	75+
Total content	35,000+ lines
SKILL.md files	18 (~350-900 lines each)
Reference files	60+
Python calculators	7
Pioneers & key figures	25+
Tools & platforms	30+
Analysis engines	8
International standards	12+
Structural systems covered	12 (beam, slab, shell, cable, gridshell, tensegrity, etc.)
Facade panel types	8
Fabrication methods	6 (CNC, laser, 3D printing, waterjet, robotic, wire cutting)
Tessellation types	30+ (regular, semi-regular, Penrose, Islamic, fractal, aperiodic)
Optimization algorithms	15+
ML model types	8
File formats supported	25+
BIM automation recipes	15

Author & License

Created by Abhinav Bhardwaj

Released under the MIT License.

Computational Design Skills - A Claude Code skills plugin for computational design in AEC.