Genetic based form exploration of mid-rise structures using cell morphologies

This research explores well-performing forms of mid-rise buildings which use cellular morphologies as perimeter bracing of the structure. The study is based on structural performance under earthquake loading. The geometry of the structure is created by parametric modeling following the principles of cellular space division. Optimization software is employed as a genetic based tool for exploration of design alternatives. The software combines parametric modeling, finite element performance simulation, and a genetic algorithm coupled with database storage. Externally braced frame structures consist of a braced load bearing system in the perimeter of the structure. In this study a parametric, vertical, spatially framed system is developed based on cellular morphology. The parametric model is used in a performance-oriented process of form generation guided by a genetic algorithm (GA). Using the database to store all of the evaluated design alternatives, then exploration of desired solutions will be performed through data mining. A pallet of well performing design alternatives is generated as the exploration result.