Self-Organizing Map and Axial Spatial Arrangement: Topological Mapping of Alternative Designs

This research attempts to formulate a computational framework for exploring spatial arrangements in the early phases of design. In the physical world, this could be compared to exploring spatial arrangements using cardboard cut-outs or simply a grid of spaces on paper. This research demonstrates the framework by means of a generative design system that introduces axial order in a plan parti made up of discrete 3D objects. The tool is designed to organize the 3D objects along an Axis specified by the user and also rearrange them following user-defined mathematical expressions. The numerical parameters (the dimensions and physical properties of the individual objects) are linked through the mathematical expressions to vary the spatial arrangement of objects. Implementation of the tool involves the Self Organizing Maps (SOMs) as the Graphical User Interface (GUI) in generative systems. This allows the user to select and dynamically view spatial arrangements that have been organized on a map based on their similarity. The application is implemented, tested, and its results are demonstrated using buildings designed by Louis I. Kahn, Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe