Parametric/Generative modeling and heuristic design method

Introduction

The advances of generative modeling tools such as Rhinoceros Grasshopper and design evaluation tools such as Ecotect and Karamba opened a broad avenue for designers to explore the territory of heuristic design methods. The objective of this course is to introduce the enabling techniques, including the visual programming skill in Grasshopper, concepts and theories of design heuristic methods such as genetic algorithm. It is expected that generative modeling and design heuristic methods can be useful for researches in various field such as architectural design in general, and /or more specifically, structure design and green building design.

Course outline

1. Introduction to generative modeling
2. Heuristic design methods
3. Generative modeling and structural analysis - Grasshopper and Karamba
4. Generative modeling and environmental analysis - Grasshopper and Ecotect
5. Generative modeling and building information modeling - Grasshopper and IFC
6. More on heuristic methods

Project

There would be two design projects. The objective is to practice and to experiment heuristic design methods.