Cellular Automata for Efficient Daylighting Performance: Optimized Façade Treatment

Abstract

Generative design systems have contributed in liberating the limits of design exploration, allowing designers to explore various design solutions. In this paper, we used one-dimensional cellular automata (CA) to generate an optimized solar screen in a south oriented classroom for efficent daylighting performance. We used Grasshopper for the modeling process, and Diva-for-Rhino, which interfaces with Radiance, to evaluate daylighting performance based on the IES approved method. CA rule number 210 was specifically employed to develop the necessary parameters for form generation where 847 different cases were examined. Results of this research demonstrated the potential of CA in achieving the intended visual aspects and daylighting requirements.

Algorithme génétique ou automate cellulaire : le cas d’une optimisation multicritère sous contraintes pour la conception d’une enveloppe

“…Ainsi, M. Zawidski propose en 2009 une façade adaptative à partir d'un AC où des films polarisants permettent de contrôler les apports solaires [26]. À plusieurs reprises, les AC ont été utilisés pour la conception de façade, notamment pour contrôler l'éclairage naturel [27,28,29].…”

Generative systems in the architecture, engineering and construction industry: A systematic review and analysis

“…Developing envelopes to fulfil performance expectations is a lengthy and costly process, in which GSs can assist by developing and evaluating a plethora of options with little time and money. Fathy et al 55 focus their effort on educational facilities, where they developed a CA-based GS to optimize solar screens on a school's southern façade to increase the daylight intake in classrooms. Kim 56,57 also use CA to design the façades of an office building to maximize daylight without compromising sustainability requirements.…”

“…Fathy et al 55 focus their effort on educational facilities, where they developed a CA-based GS to optimize solar screens on a school’s southern façade to increase the daylight intake in classrooms. Kim 56,57 also use CA to design the façades of an office building to maximize daylight without compromising sustainability requirements.…”

The Implementation of Cellular Automata in Shading Systems “South Oriented Facade -Case Study”

“…The paradigm shifts toward computational technologies have facilitated the design exploration for architects [1] and allowed for various solutions using multiple iterations to reach the optimal performance required. This approach, where the performance requirements are assessed alongside the geometry of the building or building envelope, is called 'Generative Performative Design' [2].…”

“…The usage of Cellular Automata as a Computational Generative System provides huge variations of design solutions. However, without conducting suitable stimulations using advanced simulation tools, promising results will not be achieved [1].…”