A growing number of firms, including HDR, NBBJ, and Thornton Tomasetti, are investing in talent and training to advance their computational design capabilities. Here’s a roundup of the clever applications for CD:
1. Rapid prototyping. Why design a few prototypes when you can create thousands to find the ideal solution? Algorithm-based design processes allow teams to develop and explore dozens, even hundreds, of prototypes in a matter of hours—something that would be impossible using traditional methods.
2. Rapid iteration. Similarly, computational design is being used to more efficiently test and refine particular design schemes through rapid iteration—design, test, refine, repeat, in quick succession.
3. Data dashboards. Data can be an incredibly helpful resource for Building Teams, especially if it’s readily accessible and real time. Progressive firms are using CD methods to extract vital data from, for example, BIM models to feed custom Excel dashboards. Other firms are investing in more scalable platforms, such as Web-based data visualization, to gain insight into their data.
4. Automating repetitive duties. From mundane tasks like renaming files to complex projects like calculating the walking steps in a hospital floor plan, computational design tools can be used to automate the grunt work in the design process.
Using computational design tools, a team at HDR created an iterative process for building on-the-fly parametric models directly from sketches.
5. Creating custom plug-ins for existing software platforms. Need a tool that doesn’t exist on the market? No problem. Just code a solution. An extreme example is Thornton Tomasetti’s TTX database, which provides real-time read, write, and sync capabilities across six software tools: ETABS, Grasshopper, RAM Structural System, Revit, SAP 2000, and Tekla.
6. Evaluating the performance of early design concepts. Energy analysis, daylight modeling, even cost and schedule impacts—CD tools allow teams to make informed decisions much earlier in the design process.
For more on computational design, see BD+C's feature story, “Conquer computational design: 5 tips for starting your journey.”
Related Stories
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 9, 2015
How is data changing the nature of design?
Advances in building information modeling allow for more thorough project documentation, but don't get lost in the white noise, writes Shepley Bulfinch’s Kyle Martin.
BIM and Information Technology | Sep 7, 2015
The power of data: How AEC firms and owners are using analytics to transform design and construction
Case’s bldgs = data conference highlighted how collecting data about personal activities can inform design and extend the power of BIM/VDC.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 28, 2015
MIT researchers develop 3D printer that produces intricate glass structures
The machine uses molten glass as its “ink,” contained in a “kiln cartridge” that heats up at 1,900 degrees until it is molten and pliable.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 27, 2015
Zebra Imaging launches 3D hologram creator for Autodesk Revit
Company promises new product will bring "easy creation process" to holographic imaging in AEC community.
Office Buildings | Aug 24, 2015
British company OpenDesk offers open-sourced office furniture
Offices can “download” their furniture to be made locally, anywhere.
Energy Efficiency | Aug 24, 2015
Google develops Google Maps for solar energy
The tool offers high-resolution aerial maps, like the one used in Google Earth, to estimate the total sunlight a rooftop receives throughout the year.
Sponsored | BIM and Information Technology | Aug 20, 2015
Part II - Will BIM Work as a Deliverable? A Legal Perspective on BIM
Having the right counsel on your team can be the difference between long drawn-out negotiations and breaking new ground to meet the owner’s needs.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 17, 2015
Reimagined cursors can change digital imaging
A University of Montreal professor has developed a system that elevates 2D cursors for a 3D world.
BIM and Information Technology | Aug 6, 2015
After refueling its capital tank, WeWork acquires BIM consultant Case
The merger is expected to help standardize how WeWork designs and builds out office space.
Giants 400 | Aug 6, 2015
BIM GIANTS: Robotic reality capture, gaming systems, virtual reality—AEC Giants continue tech frenzy
Given their size, AEC Giants possess the resources and scale to research and test the bevy of software and hardware solutions on the market. Some have created internal innovation labs and fabrication shops to tinker with emerging technologies and create custom software tools. Others have formed R&D teams to test tech tools on the job site.