Computational Conceptual Design:Architecture Generated By Parametric Modelling,Simulation And Optimization

With an increase in demand for Energy Efficient Building Design,building performance has become an important factor behind design decisions.Most of the design directions explored are related to building elements or envelope and there are very few building performance evaluation methods available for architects in whole building shape design in the conceptual stage.This research proposed a computational conceptual design(CCD)approach during the early stages of design that can help architects evaluate building performance and generate optimized design options.This approach is based on building performance optimization.The proposed approach involves parametric modelling,performance simulation and multi-objective optimization.In parametric modelling,the model of the building is created with different parameters and variables and the performance of the model is measured using a simulation tool.After the simulation process,the data from the simulation is provided to the optimization engine which then changes the parameters to achieve optimal performance of the model.The proposed computational conceptual design approach utilizes various technologies that include generative design,parametric design,building performance simulation,multi-objective optimization and genetic algorithms.It also utilizes a parametric modelling tool Grasshopper for Rhinoceros 3D and its plugins for simulation and optimization.The applicability and effectiveness of the CCD approach were tested through its implementation on case study office building in two different cities Tianjin and Nagpur which have opposite climate conditions.A parametric form of case study office building was generated and design alternatives were extensively explored by simulation and optimization.Finally,the optimized solution for case study office building in both cases was proposed.Through the implementation,the CCD approach successfully demonstrated the ability to adapt to design problems and provide design solutions with optimum performance.The benefits and drawbacks of the proposed approach over the conventional approach are then discussed.