Multi-Objective Optimization of a Free-Form Surface Based on Generative Designs

Abstract

With the improving of technology, many architects adopt curved panels as a type of free-form surfaces. Although these surfaces can be realized by utilizing curved panels including single-curved and double-curved panels, the use of more curved elements result in higher costs. Therefore, it is essential to seek an acceptable balance, in which not only the design intents are met but also the construction of such complex design at a reasonable cost in order to realize free-form surfaces as close to the original design as possible. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop a Multi-Objective Optimization (MOO) approach which optimizes the process of free-form surface modeling and balances between the design intent and cost efficiency with a clear objective goal by reducing the use of curved panels. A generative and parametric design can facilitate the optimizing process, generate multiple design alternatives and assist architects to decide the optimal solution in the early stages of the design. In this paper, Project Refinery, which is a generative design plug-in for the AutodeskTM Dynamo-Revit environment, is used for this purpose.