Traditional design relies on the designer's creativity, experience, and education for the generation of a single design idea. Current computational resources and methods, the availability of big data, and novel manufacturing technologies enhance the traditional design paradigm dramatically. Computation in design involves several processes such as:
- Generation of complex geometric forms and structures, not possible with traditional workflows.
- Simulation of material properties and response, usage scenarios, and environmental conditions.
- Optimization for desired properties (geometric, aesthetic, functional), and constraints (structural requirements, material limitations, resource minimization, economic restrictions).
The inclusion of these computational mechanisms to the design workflow should be supported by:
- Visualization of the design using appropriate geometric representations and visualization techniques.
- Interaction with the design that is intuitive and does not impede the creative process but rather facilitates it.
Several fields can benefit from computational design:
- Architecture
- Product design
- Engineering
- Digital art and media
- Biomedical engineering
Methods and relevant technologies include:
- Parametric modeling
- Advanced design methodologies
- Simulation and analysis
- Optimization
- Machine learning
- Digital fabrication