Kangaroo
Physics-based form-finding and constraint solver for Grasshopper
Interactive physics engine for Grasshopper enabling real-time simulation, form-finding, optimization, and constraint solving. Uses particle-spring systems to explore structural-aware geometries, catenary curves, tensile membranes, and efficient structural forms. Integrated with Rhino 6+.
Why This Tool Exists
Architects and structural engineers manually iterate form variations to meet structural constraints, aesthetic goals, and performance requirements. Designers lack intuitive real-time feedback as they explore constrained geometry, often requiring expensive external FEA tools, multiple design cycles, or manual re-optimization.
Interactive physics solver integrated into Grasshopper enabling real-time exploration of constrained forms. Designers define constraints (anchor points, springs, forces) and the particle-spring solver iteratively finds equilibrium geometries. Supports catenary curves, tensile structures, dome optimization, stress distribution analysis, and topology exploration with live visual feedback.
How You Use It
Data Transparency
Exactly what this tool uses and how
Not applicable; local plugin without APIUse Cases
- ·Form-finding for catenary vaults and shell structures
- ·Tensile membrane and cable-net structure design and optimization
- ·Parametric dome and geodesic structure generation
- ·Hanging chain and funicular arch exploration
- ·Stress-aware topology optimization for efficient structures
- ·Interactive exploration of form constrained by gravity and tension
- ·Structural analysis visualization for design development presentations
Pricing
Sources & Research NotesResearch date: 2026-04-04
- http://kangaroo3d.com/
- https://grasshopperdocs.com/addons/kangaroo-2.html
- https://www.food4rhino.com/en/app/kangaroo-physics
- https://www.grasshopper3d.com/group/kangaroo
- https://github.com/Dan-Piker
- https://docs.packhunt.io/reference/supported_gh_plugins/gh_plugin_kangaroo/
- https://www.shapediver.com/blog/shapediver-now-supports-kangaroo-plugin
- https://discourse.mcneel.com/c/grasshopper/kangaroo
- https://parametric-architecture.com/kangaroo-3d-a-form-finding-optimized-and-constraint-solving-engine/
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