Automated generation of optimised building envelope: simulation based multi-objective process using evolutionary algorithm

Abstract

This paper seeks to investigate methodology on the seamless integration for constructing a climate-conscious building envelope. The focus is targeted to provide architectural designers with an intelligent way to develop their design alternatives in the early phase of a project. Improved environmental performance can be achieved by using an optimised building envelope based on local data analysis. For tight integration, coupling of MATLAB and Rhino was employed through coding for real-time information exchanges. EnergyPlus and ECOTECT were implemented in the modelling process to simulate environmental performance. This process considers two cost functions: solar radiation and energy. Respective performance check-up runs into Multi-Objective Programming (MOP). Decision-making in MOP is optimised by using an Evolutionary Algorithm (EA), and culminated with Pareto efficiency. A sample experiment was conducted to test the methodology and results. The city, Moscow, having a conflicting claim of energy use reduc...