Prof. Yoon Young Kim's Lab

■ Variational Art

Research Objective

Engineering-driven Aesthetic Design Paradigm

One of the central themes of the 21st century is 'convergence.' Engineering and technology have had a profound impact on industrial sectors and human life, continually expanding their scope of application. While convergence in engineering and technology has traditionally occurred mainly within the domains of engineering-engineering and engineering-natural sciences, there have been limited attempts at convergence with art and design. IDeALab seeks to broaden the scope of engineering by pioneering a new paradigm of convergence between engineering and art/design, with engineering as the foundation. Additionally, this research aims to explore a new design paradigm where technology takes on an active role, enabling 'efficient' and 'creative' artistic/design endeavors, rather than simply serving as a tool to implement the intentions of the artist (designer).

Computers create; humans choose.

The core of this research lies in the idea that when a computer generates various images using algorithms for artistic work, a person selects the best image from them. In this context, the 'Topology Optimization,' a technology used in engineering design, is chosen as the algorithm for artistic work. Based on the methodology of 'optimization,' as the computer autonomously creates various images, a person can choose their desired outcome from the generated results. Consequently, through the proactive approach of engineering in the design process, computers can be used to systematically and rapidly generate diverse and creative designs, allowing for immediate realization of the chosen design.

Variational Art

The topology optimization technique is an engineering method that uses iterative simulations based on optimization algorithms to find the optimal configuration satisfying the desired physical objectives. Throughout the iterative calculation process of seeking the optimal configuration, the topology continuously changes. Assigning aesthetic meaning to the resultant topology images, rather than strictly adhering to their logical significance, marks the initial step in Variational art research. The term 'Variational art' is derived from the mathematical principle of variation, known as the variational principle, which deals with optimization.

In the optimization process following the principles of physical governing methods, design variables are assigned to the divided design domain using Finite Element Analysis. The numerical data of these design variables are then transformed into RGB information to obtain images. By incorporating characteristics unique to the Topology Optimization design technique and directly matching them with features of digital images, a novel design approach is established. Additionally, introducing the concept of 'randomness' inherent in the natural world enhances aesthetic value. Currently, image work is underway using the topology optimization based on heat transfer phenomena, and there are plans to diversify images using various physical systems in the future.

Algorithm