[Revit Automation] Generative Design vs. Dynamo Player: A Practical Choice for Modular Design

Testing 4 Layout Algorithms and Optimizing Library-Based Workflows

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/modular-bim-process-01-wonho-cho-eyutc

Introduction: Is "Complex" Always the Answer for Automation? Many BIM Managers and engineers look to Generative Design (GD) as the holy grail of design automation. However, the reality of the field is quite different from a research lab. The modular BIM process using Revit and Dynamo is evolving year by year. My aim is to share ideas on a step-by-step method focused on practical application, rather than just showing simple shape generation using Dynamo.

In this post, based on recent cases and research, I propose the most realistic and efficient automation workflow. Beyond simply generating shapes, we will explore how to achieve the "Productivity" and "Accuracy" that actual firms demand.

1. Four Algorithm Experiments for Initial Module Layout To find the optimal module layout, we researched four main methods for initial module layout. These include:

Group Placement: Arranging modules sequentially by module type.

Random Placement: Arranging modules by randomly placing module types.

Floor-by-Floor Ratio: Arranging modules by specifying types and ratios for each floor.

Linear Placement: Arranging modules by selecting a linear path.

💡 Insight: Our tests revealed that grouping and random placement were not extensively optimized because their construction efficiency was low. Instead, the "Line-based" method, which allows users to choose a linear path, demonstrated greater flexibility for practical application.

2. Dynamo Player vs. Generative Design – Which Should You Use? Many aspire to use GD to review thousands of alternatives. However, in practice, most users want to check one perfect alternative or several possibilities.

Dynamo Player: This is good for viewing a single result, so it is effective when you need to derive results easily.

Generative Design: Essential when you need to explore multiple variables to find the optimal solution.

The key is flexibility. If Dynamo's Input and Output are designated as variables, connecting to Generative Design is not a big deal. You can start with Dynamo Player and expand to GD when needed.

3. Real Speed Comes from "Libraries" Simply using Dynamo and Generative Design is not always the most optimized method. The strength of using Revit for modules lies in automatic review, BIM models, libraries, and template creation for quantity take-offs.

Recommended Workflow:

Dynamo (Logic) → Generative Design (Exploration) → Dynamo Player + Revit Template/Library (Detailing) 

Even without strictly using Generative Design, setting up Dynamo Player, Revit libraries, and templates can reduce overall process time in the later stages. This approach meets the industry's need to increase productivity and reduce review time quickly.

Conclusion: Reclaiming Time for Experts The goal of automation is not to show off technology, but to free engineers from repetitive tasks. Whether using One Line, Multi Lines, or complex GD algorithms, the ultimate goal is to improve connection efficiency between model groups and mass placement.