An advanced parametric modelling library for architectural and engineering design

Abstract

This paper presents a design computation system supporting scientific computing methods relevant to architectural and engineering design under the paradigm of visual programming. The objective of this research work is to expand and advance the palette of methods employed in academic and professional design environments. The tools contain methods for linear algebra, non-linear solvers, network analysis and algorithms for classical operational research problems such as cutting and packing, clustering and routing. A few decades ago the idea that computing would become so pervasive in the realm of architecture and engineering as it is today was confronted with deep scepticism. The thesis of this paper is that while it may be equally implausible that such methods are relevant today it may be the next natural evolution in the direction of design computation. The current state of the presented software package is still in early alpha version and it is available online for evaluation.