Programme generated architecture
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The document discusses program generated architecture and describes an experiment using it. It begins by discussing generative design and how computer-architect interaction has shifted from productivity tools to design exploration. It then details the inspiration, process, and development of a framework for the experiment. Key steps included defining descriptors, formalizing code parts, evaluating output, and adding complexity. The output generated structures and forms that emerged from applying architectural conditions and refinements over multiple generations. The goal was to use program generation as a design tool for exploration rather than purely random generation.
Programme generated architecture
- 2. ABSTRACT Design processes are characterized by change. Unfortunately, CAD tools are currently being used just as a more efficient version of the traditional paper-based approach, an approach that does not help the designers at handling change, particularly for the exploration of different solutions or to adapt the design to evolving requirements. Recently, new approaches have been introduced in the design process, which are better tailored for handling change. Generative Design is one of them and can be defined as the creation of shapes determined by algorithms.
- 3. Within the realm of architecture and design, technology interactions are becoming more sophisticated. Traditionally, computer/architect interaction centered on models of efficiency and documentation. Recently, this interaction has shifted away from productivity tools and moved towards design exploration and experimentation. One of these fields of exploration is Program generated design. Within architecture program generated design can be defined as the approach of developing applications, or systems which can develop, evolve, or design architectural structures, objects, or spaces more or less autonomously depending on the circumstance. BACKGROUND
- 4. Inspiration and Process – Development of the Framework Okay Coal Co., Tremont,Pennsylvania, USA 1975 The underlying experiment directive is the investigation of the aesthetic cohesiveness of the Minehead forms as opposed to the physical or functional attributes of the structures. Looking more closely at the photographs from an aesthetic viewpoint, one notices a haphazard yet purposeful interaction of the structural elements: a minimal subset of items form a bricolage of structural members whose sole function is to support coal extraction and rock movement. With the definition of the project challenge and internal conceptualization of the Minehead aesthetics, the process of developing a framework initiates a series of traditional representational sketches. These sketches become conversations with one’s self—in-depth investigations of forms, repetitions, patterns, emerging and diverging relationships, similarities, and differences. Start with a Goal
- 5. Exploration sketches To determine the generalized code framework, one must first study the Minehead structures, looking for descriptors: potential classifications, hierarchies, general material interactions, and member placement. These descriptors are possible routines or procedures which may be formalized and transformed into generative algorithms. Describe Consistencies
- 6. Formalize Code Parts Once descriptors have been created, they need to be developed into generalized code (functions and routines) to produce visual output. Generalized code within this experiment is defined as a structured system for output which is generated entirely from random input. For example, if a routine is set up to make 2 points, those points can be in an entirely random (X,Y,Z) coordinate position Four-point structures. Two different frame- like outputs from the same set of basic functions. Set Range Potential Generative code is typically executed many times during the generative process. To create a meaningful output range, one needs to develop systems with range potential.
- 7. Evaluate Output As the code begins to generate visual forms, one needs to study the output of multiple iterations. Through multiple iterations one begins to see patterns, potentials, and unexpected conditions. These discoveries and learnings are then used to modify the code iteratively to generate forms fitting within general aesthetic expectations. This is a significant point to reflect upon: the most common misconception about generative architecture is that the system is entirely random. In an experiment such as this there are an infinite number of potential solutions, but these solutions will fall within certain groupings of visual and contextual appearance because the range of randomness is carefully coded into a variety of algorithms and managed by subsequent generations Add Complexity Once generalized code has been developed to work at a fundamental level, it can be augmented to accept additional directions. For example, the structure below extends the development of the simple “frame” by combining it with another “frame” which shares a common structural member with the original as well as formal extensions at the joints. 2 four-point structures sharing a common structural member.
- 8. Increase Tectonic Potential Once the fundamental algorithms have been created, the next stage is to develop and refine the concept by applying architectural and formal conditions. This is accomplished with the introduction of other tectonic elements, planes, structural systems, and surfaces. This phase of the process becomes more influential as one departs further from the initial design inspiration. 2 four-point structures with additional structure. creates a more complex frame-like form
- 9. Departure from the Initial Inspiration While working with the frame-like forms one could imagine alternate architectural possibilities. What if the frame was a roof structure? What if a floor could be generated from the frame, but be related at the same time? What about other structural elements? These spatial musings lead the experiment through unexpected turns. 2 frames, one with plane frame with plane, and floor plane
- 10. Putting the Framework to Use Using the fundamental algorithms described in the “Inspiration and Process” section above and applying, combining, and modifying these over multiple generations of interaction, structures begin to emerge from the system. First Output First output of program The complexity and richness of the structures which emerge derive from the formal interaction of multiple tectonic elements generated simultaneously.
- 11. Moving Towards Architecture The next generation reflects the first significant architectonic intervention with the introduction of horizontal planes and the addition of solid roof-like membranes. Vertical planes are also introduced as transparent walls to resemble glass. After the introduction of planes, the next generation attempts to introduce variability into the fundamental structural elements such as the generation of frame systems without related planes. Output of struct02, introduction of planes, 2 views Output of struct03, introduction of variability, 2 views
- 12. In addition to variability in the “roof” structure; options are selected for vertical wall structures, allowing the potential for both transparent and opaque vertical surfaces. Output of struct04, variable planes, 2 views Adding Refinements Generations are examined to explore refinements such as structural elements which connect roof and floor members. Other refinements include architectonic features such as mullions within the transparent planes to break up the homogenous surfaces. Output of struct07, additional architectonic features, 2 views
- 13. Alternative spatial arrangements are introduced with stacking of elements near or on top of each other, creating distinct “pod- like” units, or “clusters”. Each arrangement technique is investigated, exploring the spatial richness of the open space between forms as well as the complexity of interactions within the intersecting forms Below is an example of a more horizontal or linear progression of the frame forms. Positional variation was superficially explored in this experiment and explored in more detail in other experiments Output of struct13, linear progression, 2 views Output of struct10, pod-like clustering, 2 views
- 17. Conclusion Human and computer interaction within the design realm exists on many levels, occupying coexisting methodologies and working processes. This presentation describes one experiment which uses program generated design as a conversation, a sketching tool. In the process, communication and understanding exist, and Knuth’s statement that “a person doesn’t really understand something until he teaches it to someone else. Actually a person doesn’t really understand something until he can teach it to a computer” is explored.