4 Applications of Generative Construction

Generative construction is a design process that makes use of inputted data to provide hundreds of unique building options. Incorporating several applications and approaches, generative construction is more than just a methodology. 

Its fundamental goal is to provide a way for users to quickly investigate, optimize, and solve complicated challenges. Technology that incorporates this technique parses through information to generate solutions.

Let’s go over what you need to know about generative design and construction, as well as its applications.

For more on this topic, check out further reading on generative construction.

Generative design and construction

Generative design in construction allows designers and engineers to explore various alternatives to a model by specifying parameters like materials, spatial constraints, manufacturing methods, or cost limitations to create rule sets or algorithms. 

Platforms then generate the best design alternatives. Users can also account for changes in a model, inputting new data, which the system will then use to re-assess options. In other words, software platforms that use generative design receive inputs from users, assess them, and then produce alternatives that most closely match the user’s suggested criteria.

This method can be used past the design phase, with generative construction tackling all aspects of construction. For example, planning and scheduling can be assisted by generative construction, with companies benefiting immensely from what it has to offer.

Generative construction not only improves accuracy, but can speed up core processes and reduce the need for rework in construction. In this manner, it’s key to improving efficiency and boosting construction productivity.

While the construction industry has been notorious for its low adoption rates of new techniques and technology, generative construction offers a better way to approach the planning and design of projects.

Applications of generative construction

Here are some of the main applications of generative construction.

     1. Design automation

Design automation (i.e., the automating of design processes) through generative construction is done through the controlling of parameters using automated scripts. For instance, a user could input “Create a door every X meters from a wall.” The platform will automatically apply this set of rules, using data to assess design feasibility. 

This method speeds up the design process, where previously, multiple sketches would have had to be manually completed by hand.

     2. Design optimization

Multiple computational or parametric model options can be explored for better design optimization, satisfying a user’s intent to meet project goals. For instance, users might use generative construction to find appropriate locations for doors on a wall, situating them closest to exits.

Platforms display alternative models that fit a given environment, generating them based on particular desirable or optimized properties.

     3. Computational modeling or simulation

Generative construction is used for computational modeling and simulation, in which the user can adjust models according to the information provided to produce the best possible model or simulation for a given project.

This allows users to evaluate outcomes through visualization without all the manual work needed. This method takes into consideration core project facets and their complexities.

Users can tailor responses they may want to receive to enhance modeling or simulation, allowing for more unique and distinctive solutions.

     4. Optioneering

Optioneering in construction sees the assessment of building alternatives to design and plan projects in the best way possible. It’s also used for project recovery in cases of delays.

Generative construction can be applied to optioneering, as it provides an endless number of variations you can explore by modifying and mixing inputs. Users can sort through options and select the most appropriate path forward.

Conclusion

Generative construction is applied to optimize and ensure error-free solutions that can be obtained in a fraction of the time traditional methods usually take. It’s a huge leap forward in terms of efficiency, and the construction industry has the potential to revolutionize itself by making use of this method.

As projects become bigger and more complex, professionals will need to approach challenges in a more innovative way. In this regard, businesses can significantly benefit by adopting generative construction and integrating it into the way they build their projects.

Technological platforms that use generative construction will provide better problem-solving, addressing the industry’s main pain points. Decision-making will also become easier, not only during the design phase, but throughout the entire project’s life cycle.