Supporting product innovation using 3D shape grammars in a generative design framework

Abstract

The integration of 3D shape grammars with conceptual design knowledge in a generative design system helps the development of an advanced system for the exploration of design alternatives. The key to this is the formulation of two kinds of parameterised 3D shape grammars, with which, designers’ knowledge about how to create a unique form is encoded as the strategic design knowledge, represented as a set of 3D shape grammar rules. Other lower level rules are created for changing the parameters of this strategic design knowledge in an evolving and controlled manner, in order to explore and focus on the desirable outcomes. In this paper, the relevant literatures as well as the authors’ past research are reviewed. It presents the framework of this generative product design system. A real product design example is used to demonstrate how this system works. It also discusses the issues for further research in this area.