Generative design opens up a completely new era for a wide range of industries: away from the simple use of computers for construction planning to the active control of construction processes by means of sophisticated scripts. The future lies in digitization, and engineers, construction planners and architects are realizing this.
As early as 20 years ago, a process started that can hardly be stopped today: The automation of various processes by means of digitization. There are now even light switches that function completely digitally, as well as timers for the distribution of watering, driving and, of course, construction planning. It has been a long way from the first use of computers to draw up plans and list materials to programs. Those are now capable not only of producing 3D graphics of all projects, but also of independently carrying out drawing processes and structural analysis. This not only makes work easier and faster for architects and engineers, it also makes it safer.
The emergence of generative design
To do this, technology had to advance further, and there is no end in sight. It first required digital documents, including spreadsheets and CAD drawings. This resulted in the need to access much more structural engineering information and architectural notes, and to edit and generate them directly as needed. It was only possible on computers equipped for this purpose, which had to be able to actively control all processes. This literally ushered in a new age of a new form of digitalization. The technology is moving us more in the direction of artificial intelligence (AI), spanning an arc between pure information needs and the processing of the same in graphics, plans and publications.
The advantages of this design
Generative design may be a great new invention now, but soon it will become the standard. Few industries are as diverse and constantly changing as the construction industry. The demand for novel concepts, environmentally friendly materials, sustainable conversions and much more is increasing. As a result, the demands on trained personnel to implement this accordingly for customers and developers are also growing. The realization of a new project requires many different trades and responsible parties. The more technology comes into play, the easier it is to get everyone around a virtual table, bring projects together and make them visible to everyone. Even the smallest changes are then no longer witchcraft, but can be implemented almost fully automatically. The only prerequisite is the right programs and the willingness to learn how to use them. After all, computer-aided systems don’t work all by themselves.
Generative design directly on the building site
Instead of following any theoretical considerations on the computer, it has now proven successful in numerous tests to simply drive directly to the construction site and try out different methods. For example, scripts were used to determine the optimum unloading location for heavy goods by crane. Structural analyses of the weight and load-bearing capacity of individual building elements are also classic methods for determining computer-aided systems. Thus, the term generative design does not only encompass the factor of free design of houses, interiors, garages and much more. It also includes the freedom to calculate and plan, even when it comes to the smallest elements on the construction site. Everything can be helpful, everything can make the work safer and more effective. You just have to know how to use the systems for yourself and your needs.
The purchase and familiarization with the existing programs on the market can be worthwhile and already now experts are absolutely sure: The future belongs to computer-aided work and this can be quite multifaceted, thanks to generative design!
Image copyright: limbi007
