Improving aesthetic measures for evolutionary vase design

Reed, Kate (2013). Improving aesthetic measures for evolutionary vase design. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

In order to avoid the expense of interactive evolution some researchers have begun using aesthetic measures as automatic fitness functions. This thesis explores the potential of one of the earliest aesthetic measures by George Birkhoff as a fitness function in vase design.

Results suggest that Bezier curves provide a suitable representation for rotationally symmetric vases. Initial testing of vases of this form suggested that Birkhoff's original measure had some limited potential as a fitness function with some adaptations. However it had several flaws which could be exploited in the evolutionary process. These results have also revealed several further properties with a positive correlation with human-awarded scores. A suitable balance of these measures was found and vases evolved by the measure were assessed for their aesthetic potential by a group of volunteers.

The final range of vases included many shapes similar to those developed by human designers. They show that at least within this test case it is possible to replicate the human design process. Coupled with 3D printing techniques they allow automation of the whole process from conception to product. It is hoped that this demonstration of the theory will enable further work on other aesthetic products.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):