Innovating Traditional Patterns through Computational Design: Generation and Evaluation of Xilankapu Brocade Patterns using Shape Grammar

This study investigates a computational approach to the innovative design of Xilankapu patterns.Xilankapu faces challenges such as transmission difficulties and insufficient innovation as a recognized national intangible cultural heritage.Existing research has largely concentrated on cultural interpretation, preservation, and inheritance, while systematic methodologies for design innovation remain underexplored.This study constructs a design innovation framework for Xilankapu patterns based on Shape Grammar theory to bridge this research gap.The research methodology comprises four key components: (1) Literature review and field investigatio-A systematic analysis of 86 original pattern samples, leading to the extraction of four representative patterns as initial shapes; (2) Application of Shape Grammar-development of an evolutionary design system incorporating five fundamental rules, resulting in the generation of 16 basic units and six innovative patterns; (3) Design practice-product design implementation using silk scarves and pillows as application carriers, followed by the production of physical prototypes; (4) Scientific evaluation-Construction of a fourdimensional evaluation framework addressing innovation, cultural value, artistic quality, and practicality.Weight coefficients were determined using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation was conducted with participation from 120 evaluators.The results demonstrate that the Shape Grammar-based approach enables effective innovation while preserving essential cultural attributes.The silk scarf design achieved an overall satisfaction rate of 88.50%, with cultural value receiving the highest score (90.27%).In comparison, the pillow design attained an overall satisfaction rate of 85.40%, with practicality rated highest (88.94%).Quantitative and qualitative analyses confirm that Shape Grammar facilitates modernizing traditional patterns by supporting systematic innovation and cultural preservation.This study proposes a replicable methodological framework for pattern innovation and offers practical insights into the creative transformation of traditional cultural elements in contemporary design.These findings hold significant implications for the sustainable development of intangible cultural heritage.