Discrete Optimization in Architecture Extremely Modular Systems [Paperback]

This book is comprised of two parts, both of which exploremodular systems: Pipe-Z (PZ) and Truss-Z (TZ), respectively. It presents severalmethods of creating PZ and TZ structures subjected to discrete optimization.The algorithms presented employ graph-theoretic and heuristic methods. Theunderlying idea of both systems is to create free-form structures using theminimal number of types of modular elements. PZ is more conceptual, as it formssingle-branch mathematical knots with a single type of module. Conversely, TZis a skeletal system for creating free-form pedestrian ramps and ramp networksamong any number of terminals in space. In physical space, TZ uses two types ofmodules that are mirror reflections of each other. The optimization criteriadiscussed include: the minimal number of units, maximal adherence to the givenguide paths, etc.

1. Collateral tessellation: Plaza-Z: Automated Geometrical Evaluation of a Plaza (Town Square) based on its digitized plan
2. Architectonic grid systems
2.1 Fine grid (one cell = one agent)
2.1.1 Crowd-Z (explanation/examples)
2.1.2 Simulation in regular tessellations: Square, Triangular & Hexagonal
2.1.3 Layout improvement for smooth agent flow
2.2 Coarse grid (cell width = corridor width)
2.2.1 Floor-Z: Constraint satisfaction approach for optimal layout design
2.2.1.1 Graph-theoretic approach (backtracking)
2.2.1.2 Parallelization
2.2.1.3 Application of Artificial Neural Networks
3. Discrete-time: passive solar shading of a free-form building with Shade-Z
4. Pipe-Z (PZ): a parametric design system comprised of a single module that allows the creation of complex three-dimensional knots
4.1 Physical and virtual PZ manipulatives
4.1.1 PZ knots
4.2 PZ optimization
4.2.1 Discrete
4.2.2 Continuous
4.3 Deployable PZ
4.3.1 Foldable PZ ml³«