From A to B: An algorithmic approach to circulation inside buildings

Abstract

Circulation design is a challenging part of the architectural design process. Architects traditionally address these challenges based largely on rules of thumb, personal experience, and simple tools. The modern environment, with greater computational power available, invites a more careful analysis and consideration. The purpose of this thesis project is to illustrate how algorithmic tools can be used to simulate human behaviors during the architectural design process or after construction of the building to improve building’s performance. To achieve this objective, analysis approaches related to congestion, emergency egress, and wayfinding inside architectural space were surveyed. Then an algorithmic toolkit was developed based on an artificial intelligence pathfinding algorithm called Theta*. Finally, several application prototypes were created to illustrate application of the toolkit to (a) evaluating positive and negative implications of congestion in the design of the buildings, (b) assessing congestion during emergency egress situations, and (c) assist individuals navigating complex buildings.