Principle of Generative Design

Generative design is a collaborative process between man and machine. The functioning of this collaboration is vital, and the solution is present in nature.

Evolution

“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent - It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.

-Charles Darwin

Procreation fuels Evolution. The process is that the intermixing of different sets of genes, combined with mutation, occasionally brings in new random genes. The resulting offspring are then tested in nature to see the ones that adapt and survive. These are left to procreate, and the process continues. The process eventually leads to a well-adapted set of genes. The generative design process implements the same procedure. The set of genes are the design goals and parameters. It can grasp elements from the projects it has analysed and apply the knowledge to generate sturdier and optimised designs.

Figure 9. Tree of Life, Charles Darwin, Origin of Species (1859)

Approach12

When broken down to its core, the generative design process is a cycle consisting of three processes 1. Generate 2. Evaluate 3. Evolve

1. Generate: A population of design solutions is created based on the initial design parameters provided. 2. Evaluate: The fittest of the population is selected, and the features are evaluated 3. Evolve: The best performing solutions are crossed over to generate a new population. This cycle is continued until the required criteria are met.

Figure 10. Diagram showing the base cycle of Generative design13

This process can also be called Analysis, Morphogenesis and Metamorphosis. Analysis focuses on data collection such as the context, programme brief, client requirements, material and performance. Morphogenesis is the generation of design options or prototypes. These are based on spatial and organisational principles such as surface continuity, faceting, volume deformation. unit accumulation and algorithmic patterning Metamorphosis is the phase where the abstract design prototype is translated into design drawings ( Floor plans, sections, elevations, physical/digital models, visualisations)

12 Generative Design. (2017, January 23). Generative Design –. Medium. Generative Design – Medium - Danil Nagy 13 Image Source: Geometry Systems for AEC Generative Design: Codify Design Intents into the Machine. (2020, September 21). Autodesk University. Geometry Systems for AEC Generative Design: Codify Design Intents into the Machine