Solving Form-Making Problems Using Shape Algebras and Constraint Satisfaction

Abstract

Shape grammars are well known approaches in design space exploration. This paper reviews the current work on shape grammars in design and suggests that considerable gains can be attained by integrating parametric shape grammar based design approaches with distributed constraint-based problem solving. Parametric grammars are represent design topologies while distributed constrain satisfaction can be used to maintain consistency and produce the space of feasible design solutions. Designers' decision making can be coordinated such that constraints cannot be violated and designs that exhibit the highest utility (value) are selected.