Generative Design

Recommended Prerequisites

Average knowledge of design and programming.

Teaching Methods

The unit includes theoretical lectures where the fundamental concepts, principles and techniques are presented and explained in detail.

Lectures of practical nature play the role of strengthening the connection between theoretic knowledge and its practical application. To pursue this goal we focus on problem solving and on the analysis of case studies that require combining different theoretical concepts and that promote critical reasoning.

Learning Outcomes

In this curricular unit programming is understood and explored as a form of expression. Realizing that true literacy results from the ability of "reading" and "writing", the creator is understood as a designer of computational processes, becoming able to question existing models and of fully explore the possibilities of computational media.Key features of generative systems, processes and design are introduced and then explored in practical exercises. Through study and implementation students develop a ample analytical understanding and practical skills in the domain of generative design.

The main competencies to be developed are:

Instrumental – analysis and synthesis, problem solving

Personal – critical thinking

Systemic - practical application of the theoretical knowledge; research

The secondary competences are:

Instrumental – organizing and planning

Personal – work in teams

Systemic – autonomous learning; creativity.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Introduction

1.1 Generative Systems and Design

1.2 Historical Perspective

1.3 Generative Design Culture

2 Properties of Generative Systems

2.1 Iteration

2.2 Structure

2.3 Recursion

2.4 Complexity

2.5 Unity

2. Methodologies for Generative Design

2.1 Generative Design Strategies

2.2 Parametric systems

2.3 Celular Automata

2.4 Particle Systems and Swarming

2.5 Self-Organization and Self-Assembly

2.6 Generative Grammars

2.7 Nature Inspired systems

3. Example Applications to Design

3.1 Critical Analysis

4. The Role of the Designer in Generative Design

4.1 Originality and Intent

4.2 Appropriation.

Head Lecturer(s)

Fernando Jorge Penousal Martins Machado

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Synthesis work: 20.0%
Resolution Problems: 20.0%
Research work: 20.0%
Project: 40.0%

Bibliography

Menges, A., & Ahlquist, S. (2011). Computational Design Thinking: Computation Design Thinking.

Lostritto, C. (2019). Computational Drawing: From Foundational Exercises to Theories of Representation.

Agkathidis, A. (2016). Generative Design (Form + Technique).

Gerstner K. (2007). Designing Programmes, 3rd ed, Lars Muller Publishers.

Woodbury (2010). Elements of Parametric Design, Routledge.

Xianwei L. (2013). Dynamic Logo, CYPI Press.

Armstrong H. and  Stojmirovic Z. (2013). Participate: Designing with User-Generated Content. Princeton Architectural Press, 2013.

Maeda J (2001). Design by Numbers, MIT Press.

Bohnacker H, Groß B, Laub J, Lazzeroni C (2010). Generative Design: Visualize, Program, and Create with Processing.

Hollis, R. (2002). The designer as programmer, Eye Magazine, 43.

Lehni, J. (2011). Teaching in the spaces between code and design, Eye Magazine, 81.

Reas, C., McWilliams, C., and LUST (2010). Form+Code in Design, Art, and Architecture.