Generative Design is a term from the fields of Artificial Intelligence, 3D printing, and Industry and Industry 4.0. It describes an innovative method in which computer programs independently develop various design options for products. You only provide the necessary parameters to the program, such as material, size, load-bearing capacity, and target costs.
The programme then uses algorithms and artificial intelligence to calculate a multitude of possible solutions within these parameters. These designs would often be too complex or numerous for humans to create manually. This allows for the discovery of particularly innovative and efficient solutions, which are often lighter, cheaper, or more stable than conventional designs.
A good example of generative design is the development of a bicycle saddle: engineers specify how much weight the saddle must bear and what dimensions it should have. The software then suggests unusual, yet stable forms, which sometimes appear to be inspired by nature.
In conjunction with 3D printing, generative design makes it possible to implement such new designs directly and quickly in reality. This way, resources can be saved and innovative solutions found.
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