The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

AI-Based Hospital Design Process through Neuro-Symbolic Strategies

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors
Ameneh Sadat Fattahi Maassoum 1
Hero Farkisch 1
Mohammad Taji 2
1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran
2 Department of Mining, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Shahrud Branch, Shahrud, Iran
10.22038/abjs.2024.83867.3815
Abstract
Objectives: Hospitals represent one of the most complex subjects in architectural design. Over time,
many hospitals undergo changes in their initial spatial layouts to accommodate evolving needs. This 
process often presents various challenges and problems, and the absence of an optimal design process 
for hospitals is a primary contributor to these issues. Artificial intelligence (AI), with its advanced
capabilities, can offer highly accurate and rapid solutions. This research aims to present an integrated 
approach that combines architecture and AI for AI-based hospital design through neuro-symbolic 
strategies.
Methods: This research employs a theoretical-applied framework, and utilizes a descriptive-analytical method to 
investigate the role of artificial intelligence in the design process, particularly within hospitals. The data collection 
methods include a literature review and an examination of texts and studies related to architectural design and AI. 
Furthermore, by analyzing the data through content analysis, integrated neuro-symbolic strategies were introduced 
as a comprehensive approach to AI. The final model of the hospital design process, based on this approach, was
subsequently presented.
Results: Unified and hybrid techniques are two methods for integrating symbolic and sub-symbolic algorithms 
within the integrated neuro-symbolic approach. This innovative methodology leverages the strengths of both 
categories of algorithms while mitigating their respective weaknesses. Among the six methods presented in this 
paper, the hybrid strategy—method number three (neuro-symbolic) — emerges as the most effective means of
achieving an integrated process that merges AI and architecture in hospital design.
Conclusion: In this process, the designer's interventions are minimized, allowing AI to produce the most optimal 
architectural design for a hospital by leveraging its capabilities.
 Level of evidence: V
Keywords
AI generative design process
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Hospital design
Hybrid technique
Neuro-symbolic
Unified technique
Subjects
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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 13, Issue 7
July 2025
Pages 442-456

  • Receive Date 12 November 2024
  • Revise Date 31 December 2024
  • Accept Date 11 December 2024