Geometry matching by multi-agent systems

Abstract

The idea for Geometry matching by multi-agent systems as a subject originates at a previous course, where the J. Sturkenboom & author came up with an idea to use the material of old boat hulls as facade elements to provide a solution to an environmental problem. The approach then was rather practical, whereas the approach within this thesis is a theoretical one where a focus lies on solving the computational challenges this subject provides. This thesis proposes a work-flow that includes an algorithm that finds matches between the material and design. The overall work-flow attempts to provide a solution for an environmental problem by creating a facade system that uses a discarded material as panelling. The ability of the algorithm to find matching shapes is provided by agent based modelling. This computational technique uses agents, which can be described as a computer system situated in some environment, that is capable of autonomous action in this environment in order to meet its design objectives. The outcome of the algorithm within this thesis are cutting positions on a 3D boat geometry, which provides a basis for the code that is able to instruct machinery to process and produce the design. This process is tested digitally on a case study design as a starting point for such a workflow. The intention of this work-flow as a whole is not to provide architects with a solution that creates perfectly smooth facade designs using discarded material, but as a new direction into which designers can venture where the algorithm can be used to materialize a design idea as closely as possible with discarded materials. The outcome is a logic that defines the form finding process and a work-flow in which it is situated, both combined form a starting point which is to be developed in the future in order to move this idea from idea on paper to built in reality.