Caddisfly
Algorithmic node design and fabrication optimization for complex freeform structures
Grasshopper add-on that automates node design and structural optimization for freeform architecture, generating CNC-ready fabrication files through algorithmic parametric control.
- Pricing
- contact the vendor
- Alternatives
- BHoM, DiRoots, Branch Technology
- Who it's for
- Architecture, Engineering (Structural), Construction
Why This Tool Exists
Architects and structural engineers manually design nodes for complex freeform structures, requiring extensive custom scripting, iterative fabrication coordination, and time-intensive optimization. This manual process is error-prone, creates bottlenecks between design and fabrication teams, and limits design exploration when schedule pressure increases.
Caddisfly automates parametric node design and structural optimization through algorithmic workflows in Grasshopper. It generates CNC-ready fabrication files directly from parametric geometry, optimizes node typologies for different structural systems (space frames, grid shells, single-layer shells), and streamlines the entire process from conceptual design through construction-ready fabrication in approximately seven parametric steps.
How You Use It
Data Transparency
Exactly what this tool uses and how
Contact vendor for API accessUse Cases
- ·Freeform structural node design: Parametrically generate node variations for curved and complex geometries from concept through fabrication
- ·Space frame optimization: Automate node design and connection logic for large-scale structural systems with minimal manual coordination
- ·Grid shell design: Create tessellated shell structures with optimized node typologies for efficient material use and fabrication
- ·CNC fabrication workflow: Generate fabrication-ready files and assembly sequences directly from design models, reducing production errors
- ·Structural typology exploration: Rapidly iterate between different structural approaches (single-layer shells, double-layer grids, space frames) to compare material and cost impacts
Pricing
Sources & Research NotesResearch date: 2026-04-03
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