Investigating roster brick based on multi-objective optimization between daylighting, wind velocity and structural displacement

Roster brick or commonly known as breeze blocks is one of the most used building elements in tropical countries because of its functionality and versatility. Its function varies from being used as a vent in service areas to an element for architectural façade. This hollow concrete block can be used not only for aesthetic values but also for improving passive design strategies through air and daylight. However, the geometric configuration of the roster is currently still relying on the creativity and intuition of the roster's craftsmen. Therefore, this study investigates the optimal roster geometry shape which accommodates multiple performances by using the integration of multi-objective optimization (MOO) and material fabrication methods. The use of MOO serves the purpose of finding near-optimum solutions among conflicting building performance objectives. The MOO result is 57 generations with 90 genes identified in the last generation. The first near-optimum design options are capable of obtaining daylighting as much as 87% with UDI metric, flowing wind velocity up to 1.98 m/s, and experiencing structural displacement until 0.36 mm. This study provides a valuable contribution to form-finding a high-performance building element, in this regard roster brick.