For my generative design, I will attempt to provide an generative list of configurations for a “Figure 8 shaped” swimming pool. This is a common type of backyard pool in suburban homes outside of the rectangular shape. However, not much thought is put into what would be most effective in terms of size and cost of maintenance.
Step 1 - Generative Design Framework
Step 2 - Generative Design Study
These inputs are set as “As Input” for the Generative Design study.
Then, using the Nurb Curve function, the 6 points are used to form a closed loop in a function of degree 2.
Then, the geometry is offset in the Z-direction using Translate function. The input for this is a Depth Slider. This will be kept constant throughout the study.
Next, we will calculate the volume of the solid. Furthermore, we will calculate the surface area of the floor as well as the walls. These metrics are the baseline for the formulae on cost and gallons of water for the Generative Study. Using Volume and Surface Area, we are able to find the size of the pool as well as the cost to maintain the pool per year. A visualizer is used to make a teal pool in Dynamo.
The final outputs show the Pool Size in gallons and the Cost of Maintenance ($/yr). These are set as outputs in Dynamo for the Generative Study.
Then, we run the study with the following settings:
Step 3 - Generative Design Study Results
‘In terms of trade-off, we see a very linear relationship. As the pool size increases, the cost of maintenance per year increases.
We also have a size restriction in the length. The larger the circle of the scatterplot data point, the longer the pool. So, the smaller data points are preferred.
From the available pool designs within budget, some are slightly long, while others are plain rectangular shapes (although they are efficient, they are boring! 🤢). The best figure 8 design within budget is as shown:
Size of the pool; 13,200 gal
Cost of Maintenance: $3,760/yr