Geometric Optimization of façade openings in the tropics with genetic algorithms and parametric design application

Abstract

The envelope openings of houses have a strong implication in the indoor environmental quality and energy consumption. Nevertheless, there are no precise regulations for its design in equatorial tropics.  Normally these designs are based in the previous experiences and common sense of the architect. Determining the correct configuration of a design problem with the desired performance is now possible with the introduction of Parametric Design and Genetic Algorithms; through these it’s possible to obtain the best alternatives in the initial phase of design. The main focus of this investigation is to design windows that proportion adequate conditions of thermal and visual comfort, for a warm and humid tropical climate. The use of generative tools allows the evaluation of results in the initial stages of the project, giving the designer the possibility of choosing among diverse results with a high grade of efficiency and sustainability.