Towards a generative design system based on evolutionary computing
Abstract
This thesis proposes elements and principles for a digital generative
design system, which involves Evolutionary Computing. The functioning of
the system is based on an analogy between a design process and a process of
natural evolution. The design system based on natural evolution seems
especially appropriate in the early stage of a design process, where architects
explore design possibilities by testing a number of different versions of
design. Proposed generative design system is meant to support architects by
generating different versions of building models, whose automatic
development is guided by design objectives inputted by a system’s user.
Evolutionary Computation has been selected as the guiding programming
approach for this project because of its high generative and creative potential,
and its flexibility in terms of application.
Another key framework of this thesis is sustainable architecture. Here,
sustainable architecture is understood first as a balanced integrative approach,
which intends to comprehend architecture in its totality (in contrast to other
systems, which focus on one or two architectural features). This property of
sustainable architecture makes it suitable as a default system of values, which
sets an unbiased direction for automated design development.
This thesis investigates four prototypes of a generative design system,
concluding that they are fragmented. The main claim of the thesis is that a
design system, in order to function, has to take into consideration a wide
variety of design aspects (social, environment, economic), as defined in the
guidelines of sustainable development.
A practical application of the principles developed and discussed in this
thesis may be a computer-based system or CAAD (Computer Aided
Architectural Design) system. Such a system would function as a creative
design assistant during the conceptual stages of architectural design. This
thesis, however, does not provide an operative CAAD system, but just the
theoretical ground for it.