PARAMETRIC & GENERATIVE DESIGN
Parametric design is a great way to quickly explore various design options. It involves a sequence of geometric operations, outlining how the computer should create a particular form. Instead of fixed values, it uses parameters that can be changed, leading to different designs when the input parameters are adjusted.
The benefits of parametric design include:
– flexibility: the algorithm can adapt to changes or specific requirements;
– time efficiency: it allows for faster exploration of design possibilities and quicker construction of geometry;
– precision: since the computer creates the geometry, there is no room for human error.
Generative design is a more advanced approach, something like having a creative assistant. Users provide instructions, constraints, and goals, and the computer autonomously generates novel designs through iterative problem-solving.
This method is particularly useful for:
– complex problem solving: it helps in finding innovative solutions to design challenges;
– optimization tasks: generative design is effective in identifying solutions that meet specific criteria.
CONCERT HALL
The shape of the concert hall was generated relying on object-oriented programming entirely. Constructing geometry with C# is much quicker compared to common visual programming tools. For example, generating a new design variation of this complex shape takes less than 10s. There were around 80 numerical inputs, affecting various parts of the form, resulting in a total of 1.5*10^153 design variations.
PARAMETRIC FACADE
Parametric approach to facade design is practical since facades often follow very specific geometric rules. Translating those rules into an algorithm (C# code, python code, or Grasshopper definition) can lead to faster exploration of design possibilities, reducing time consumption (compared to conventional techniques of 3D modelling) and enhanced flexibility.
PARAMETRIC SKYSCRAPER
The best use of parametric design is when you need to explore different variations of your idea. With these rapid explorations, you don’t lose on quality or high-precision in evaluating generated form. For example, even a small change in floor height can lead to a big cost reduction in high-rise buildings. Using a parametric model, you can simply change the input values until you’re satisfied with the results.
TOPOLOGY OPTIMIZATION
Topology optimization is a part of generative design where you rely on algorithms to find an optimal structural system. This approach requires a boundary shape, defined supports and loading conditions. The algorithm will try to remove the excess material, improving the design with each step it takes. If needed, the algorithm can also add material to the structure. The final result is a design where geometry “follows the flow of forces”.
GENERATIVE STRUCTURAL DESIGN
Generative approach to structural design has become quite useful with the age of digital design. We can run various algorithms for advanced form-finding techniques. For instance, we can conduct a FEM analysis, extract the curves that follow the principal stress pattern, and then use them as guidelines to strengthen your structure. Additionally, we can export files for more advanced manufacturing techniques.
PARAMETRIC INTERIOR DESIGN
Parametric design can be applied to a wide range of services in the interior design.
Some of the examples include:
– working with the free-form design and complex shapes;
– generating any kind of geometry using images as inputs;
– generating specific furniture elements and preparing it for fabrication…