Heuristic generation of layouts (HeGel) based on a paradigm for problem structuring

Based on protocol analysis of the designers solving spatial problems in architecture, a paradigm for the designers' behavior was proposed [Akin87] in terms of: Problem (Re)Stnjcturing, when problem parameters are established or transformed, and Problem Solving, when these parameters are satisfied in a design solution. In order to calibrate and verify the paradigm, we implemented a computer based system called HeGeL (Heuristic Generation of Layouts). In this report, we describe our approach to developing HeGeL, its architecture and performance. Implemented as a production system, the computer program simulates behavior of the designers observed in the protocol experiments conducted earlier. This report intends to serve multiple purposes. First, we describe architecture of HeGeL in terms of representations used, flow oTactions and computing environment in which it was implemented. Based on performance of HeGeL, we discuss validity of the proposed paradigm for the designers' behavior, adequacy of our methodology, and some other issues faced during the development of HeGeL. Some research issues that need further exploration t̂re also highlighted. This research is funded by NSF Grant No: CEE-8411632