http://www.ted.com/talks/robert_lang_folds_way_new_origami.html

Hope this helps!!

Robert Lang uses advanced algorithms (WHICH HE PIONEERED!) to visually access architectural designs once thought to be too intricate to believe.

Hi Chase. Thank you so much for the link. It is interesting and I know Robert Lang since 2006. In fact, I had applied origamic concept in designing post-disaster temporary shelter for quick installation in emergency periods, and in 2008 I published a paper (about a new technique of folding related to real scale buildings) in Open House International journal. My masters thesis was also based on the application of origamy in architecture.

But, at present, my special research focus is on fractal geometry and its application in architectural structures by using advanced algorithms.

Hi!

It's really interesting. I've seen other applications, for example the setting of a target visible from every apartment in a building.

Your publication "Fractal geometry as the synthesis of Hindu cosmology in Kandariya Mahadev temple, Khajuraho" is for me the confirmation of the existence of some matrices design in historical monuments.

I'm Italian building engineer. I am interested in these studies.

i'm also interested in fractal geometry, but its so difficult to learn. Some of friends have a project with fractal application in batik motif (Indonesian traditional fabric).

Last time i try to do with fractal city for my doc research, but that's too hard for me. Reading your Fractal geometry as the synthesis of Hindu cosmology really interesting.

looking forward your next publication about this fractal geometry. Sorry if my comment was't helping at all ^ ^

You might consider GenerativeComponents from Bentley Systems. They offer it for free. It is similar to but different from Rhino and Grasshopper.

http://www.bentley.com/en-US/Promo/Generative%20Components/default.htm

There are videos on You Tube that give fairly good instruction, especially those by Carlos David Gonzalez Uribeby. Bentley has additional info on their website.

Dear Beta Paramita, thank you so much for your reply. You are right, fractal is quite complicated, because it is itself a complicated geometry, and its mathematics is also based on complex system. I am now writing a paper based fractal and once it will be published I must post it here !!

Dear George Macknight, I am highly thankful to you. I heard about this generative component before, but never used it. I must try to exploit fractal in this system. I am looking forward to watch the video instructions too. Thanks again !!

Rush out and buy the book "Generative Design - Visualize, Program and Create with Processing". It has many examples of what you want to do. However, Processing system is aimed at visualization, not engineering design.

http://www.amazon.com/Generative-Design-Visualize-Program-Processing/dp/1616890770

@Rian: interesting considerations and papers available at:

http://www.generativeart.com/

@R Thomas: Thank you very much for the link. Lukily I found this book in our library, and it is really helpful. Thank you again :)

@N Sala, Thank you so much for the link. I have read many of your papers related to Fractals, and getting reply and reference directly from you is very special for me. Thank you sir.

I recommend the book "Tensegrity Systems" published by Spring 2009. In this book we show how to optimize fractals for specific mechanical purposes, such as carrying a load in compression or bending applications.

Theorems are given to minimize mass using a special type of "tensegrity" fractal. Origami is a way to make a 3-dimensional structure from -2-dimensional objects, while tensegrity engineering is a way to make 3-dimensional objects from 1-dimensional objects. Hence tensegrity is the mother of origami. In geometry fractals are used just to fill space, with interesting artistic appeal. The newer tensegrity engineering seeks to fill space with geometries that have guaranteed mechanical properties.

Dear Professor Robert E Skelton, thank you so much for this very important reference. This is truly helpful for my research. I am rushing to access the material that you refer. Please, let me know other such or related references if possible. 

I know a lot of folks use python to develop scripts for software such as Rhino. I prefer using a better IDE (Integrated Development Environment) such as those provided by Microsoft in their Visual Studio editions. I good IDE can make writing and debugging a program infinitely easier. Visual Studio Express (free version) has C#, C++, and Visual Basic. I personally prefer Visual Basic for most things because it is relatively easy to code and is very likely the easiest to develop an interface (dialog boxes) other than Boland Delphi. Visual Studio Express is free and Rhino has a .Net interface which works with Visual Studio and Visual Studio Express. http://wiki.mcneel.com/developer/dotnetplugins

Although not directly linked to building-based architecture, an interesting source for new ideas on fractal systems and design is the work, Fractal Brain Theory, by Wai H. Tsang. Here is a simple link to some of the ideas presented: http://www.iawwai.com/FractalBrains.html 

Furthermore, much more information is available via his discussions and seminars which he has recorded. Worth a look.

 Another suggestion would be to add biomemetics into the search if you are interested in fractal design systems in nature. Here are a couple examples:

Article Biomimetics in architectural design

Article A methodology for the generation of biomimetic design concepts