This paper proposes a concept of layo凱 design automation by focusing on hierarchy in functional and spatiaI s 恤 ctures of a system such as an energy plan し This concept is based on the emergent synthesis that any design solutio 皿 is generated through interactions between the whole . and parts . Under its methodelogy , various elements that compose a layout design problem such as 呈 ayout components , their partial sets, layout space and layout conditions are respeCt 孟 vely mOdeled as independent

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... autonomous agents . Layout design is deployed through recursive iteration of assumption of a tentative layout , recognition of partial situations for individua 乳agents , their evaluation and layout refinement . In this pTocess such situations are dynamically and refiexively formed through various interactions among agents . This methodology for computational design is applied to a prototype systern for plant layout design in order to demonstrate its promises and poss三 bilitles .