Essential Mathematics for Computational Design introduces design professionals to foundational mathematical concepts necessary for the effective development of computational methods for 3D modeling and computer graphics. This is not intended to be a complete or comprehensive resource, but rather an overview of the most basic and commonly used concepts. The material is geared toward designers who have little or no background in mathematics beyond high school. All concepts are explained visually using Grasshopper® (GH), the generative modeling environment for Rhinoceros® (Rhino).

This course assumes knowledge of Grasshopper user interface. For resources on getting started, please go through the Grasshopper: Getting Started tutorials and check the Grasshopper resources page for additional learning material.

The content is divided into eight sections:

1. Vectors – Basics of vector mathematics and vector representation.
2. Vector Operations – Operations such as addition, subtraction, and scaling.
3. Parametric Equations – Introduction to parametric line and plane equations.
4. Matrix Operations – Review of matrices and transformation operations.
5. Parametric Curves – Exploration of curve definitions and behaviors.
6. NURBS Curves – Review characteristics, continuity, and curvature.
7. Parametric Surfaces – Discussion of parametric representation of surfaces.
8. NURBS Surfaces and Polysurface – Discuss characteristics and other concepts related to of NURBS surfaces and polysurfaces.

But why we care to learn this content? See the following video:

All Grasshopper examples and tutorials can be downloaded below

Discussion Forum:

You can post your questions at the end of each section, but for more interactive discussion please use the McNeel Discourse Forum, and for Grasshopper-related questions, you can post under the Grasshopper category.