Generating facades and high-rise buildings can be relatively easily achieved through a parametric design approach since they often follow a precisely defined sequence of geometric operations. This means that algorithms can be easily created to automatically construct the desired geometry – whether through visual programming methods (such as Grasshopper definitions) or object-oriented programming (such as C# or Python code). This way, the generation of a large number of forms can be automated regardless of the level of detail and complexity.
What is a parametric design?
The parametric design is a method that involves assembling a clearly defined sequence of geometric operations – instructions that tell the computer how to construct the desired form. Variables are defined as input parameters, users can later change them and the software will automatically produce a new form. In addition to creating geometry, various numerical operations can also be performed automatically such as calculating areas and volumes, determining the quantity of used materials, cost analysis, etc.
For example, in the first step, a rectangle (representing the base of the object) is constructed, then it is copied along the Z-axis (for the desired number of floors), and finally, rotation is applied to each individual element. The algorithm can be further developed depending on the specific needs and level of detail. For example, you can have a developed system where each floor is automatically generated, positions of columns are automatically generated, facade surfaces are automatically constructed, and then fully detailed individual facade panels, etc.
DNA structure of an object
Every architectural object can be described by a defined sequence of geometric operations, symbolically representing the DNA structure of the form. Since geometric operations remain unchanged and only the input parameters vary, resulting solutions are topologically similar, meaning they belong to the same “design family.” This gives the users the ability to quickly explore various design options of their initial idea and find a form that best fits the given context.
Analysis and Evaluation of Objects
When exploring design variations, it is not sufficient to merely generate facades or high-rise structures. There is often a need to establish a system that automatically evaluates the generated form based on desired analyses. Geometric analysis of objects can perform various operations, resulting in a numerical value that symbolizes an assessment, allowing the user to determine which variation was more successful.
Some popular analyses include:
- material usage and cost analysis;
- insolation analysis (for precise geographic latitude and longitude);
- facade panel typology (dimensions, shape, representation);
- viewshed analysis (which part of the object is visible and to what extent from defined positions);
- simple wind simulation, etc.
Adapting to the user’s requirements
There are a large number of different options when it comes to creating algorithms for façade generation, so they can be relatively easily adapted to the user’s requirements. Firstly, input parameters can be solely numerical values (dimensions of the object, number of floors, rotation of the form, etc.), but they can also be geometric (shape of the form, facade surface, shape of floors, etc.). Secondly, geometric operations can be set up to generate forms of varying levels of detail – from simplified designs (in just a few seconds) to significantly more complex models (which take into account cross-sectional profiles, glass thickness, panel spacing, structural elements, etc.). Thirdly, the end result will depend on the user’s requirements. In addition to generating the basic form, we can generate optimized mesh geometry for architectural visualization, perform various analyses, export Excel tables with basic information, etc.
Creating and testing algorithms may take slightly more time compared to conventional 3D modelling techniques. However, once a parametric approach is created, you can quickly explore different solutions, generate all necessary elements, respond quickly to any changes, and in the long run significantly reduce time and other resources.
Specific Requirements
Input parameters don’t have to be exclusively geometric or numerical. Images can also be used to influence the form – whether it’s the shape of facade panels, the positions of openings, or the curvature of the structure. This is done by breaking down the image into constituent elements, i.e., pixels, and then using various numerical data to drive the generation of facades and high-rise buildings (RGB or HSV values). Additionally, audio and video formats can be used, or any type of file from which we can extract a series of numerical data to influences geometry.
Digital Fabrication
Once a precise 3D model of an object is generated, we often add secondary operations related to exporting elements – whether it’s for digital fabrication or communication with other disciplines. We can create algorithms that automatically extract vector drawings from 3D models (such as formwork plans, workshop drawings for metalwork, workshop drawings for facade panels), but also that can export elements for various CNC cutting techniques and machine processing.
Unconventional Structures
The parametric design approach provides the ability to relatively easily tackle complex, amorphous and unconventional structures. These forms are often difficult to create using conventional 3D modelling techniques, requiring significant time and being prone to accidental human errors. Once an architect establishes a suitable sequence of geometric operations, the algorithm effortlessly generates elements, accommodating both simple and intricate forms.
When dealing with complex structures, it is often necessary to simplify the geometry of curved surfaces for easier production. Algorithms can be created, for example, to transform the desired form into ruled surfaces or triangulated panels.
Therefore, the parametric approach as a group of variable input parameters and a series of geometric operations can be extremely useful in numerous projects, especially when it comes to facades and high-rise buildings. This method enables quick testing of variants, as well as rapid response to changes in the project. Additionally, a simple change of one axis in the project, or a change in panel dimension doesn’t have to be a process that requires several days of modelling, but rather something that the algorithm generates in a matter of seconds or minutes. The parametric approach to form generation serves as a tool to aid in decision-making processes in the early stages of design, as well as a method that significantly saves time during the later stages.