Alan Bridges

On architectural design in virtual environments

Abstract This paper considers the domains of architectural design and film theory for the purpose of informing the design of virtual environments (VEs). It is suggested that these domains may form a background for the consideration of possible metaphors for the design of VEs. Firstly, the paper investigates the relation between architecture and virtual reality technology, through the nature of drawings and virtual environments as means of representing three-dimensional spaces. Then, differences between VEs and physical environments (PEs) are identified for the purpose of understanding the intrinsic nature of VEs, by comparing them to our familiar everyday spatial experience. This step is considered essential in helping us understand how we might be able to develop an architectural conception of designing spaces, in the context of VEs. The paper then presents two directions towards informing VE design by means of theoretical and practical architectural design knowledge. Finally, the use of film-related studies is considered as a means of enhancing our conception of time and movement in VEs.

Implications of the internet for the construction industry

Abstract This paper is an adaptation of a section of the Building IT 2005 multimedia CD-ROM ( Building IT 2005, Construction IT Forum , Cambridge, 1995). The paper discusses the implications of network technology for the construction industry. Introductory material about the Internet (and links to interesting resources) is included in the publication cited and a much more extensive guide is available in A.H. Bridges, The Construction Net E. & FN Spon, London 1996.

THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN OF VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS

The paper discusses the use of precedents from architecture, urban design and film to propose guidelines for the improvement of navigation and wayfinding in virtual environments.

3D Modelling of a Famosa Fortress, Malaysia Based on Comparison of Textual and Visual Data

This paper presents an attempt to model the “A Famosa Fortress” in Malaysia into 3D. This building was built in 1511 by the Portuguese and went through several architectural developments and changes before being largely destroyed during the British occupation in 1824. The biggest challenge in this research is to determine the original fortress layout due to the lack of any authoritative documentation pertaining to the fortress. Detail analysis has been conducted to identify reliable sources for references which are available in the form of text and visual. In this paper, we focus on comparison of selected textual and visual data to come out with a verifiable conjectural layout of the fortress. We then pre-visualized the layout in 3D model. Some samples of the model are presented here however there are still rooms for improvements before it is finalized. The output of this research will be tested for application in tourism and education.

3D modelling of the A Famosa fortress in Melaka, Malaysia

This paper presented our approach to developing the 3d model of A Famosa Faortress in Melaka, Malaysia. As the physical remnant of the fortress are minimal, a traditional 3D modelling technique based on collected data has been adopted. This method has been adopted based on case studies of three comparable reconstruction projects namely Michelsberg synagogue, The Jewish Quarter in Regensburg and Reconstruction of the old main church in Curitiba, Brazil. In this paper we discussed the 3D modeling technique used and presented some output of the model.

Digital preservation of a famosa fortress in malaysia

In this paper, we described an attempt to preserve the A Famosa Fortress in Malaysia in 3D model. First, a brief background of the A Famosa fortress is presented to justify the importance of preserving this historical heritage. Then the stages involved in the digital preservation process are discussed and some images of the 3D model of this fortress are illustrated. To evaluate the importance of the digital preservation of A Famosa and to find out its potential application in the tourism and education industry in Malaysia, a human evaluation has been conducted and the results are presented and discussed in detail.

Computer Numerical Control, Mass Customization and Architectural Education in an Emergent Economy

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate that digital fabrication has had little impact in the Brazilian architecture so far, as compared to other countries, not because of an alleged unavailability of CNC technology in this country’s construction industry, but for other reasons that must be investigated. We show in this paper the results of a preliminary survey carried out in the region of Brasilia that reveals a significant presence of CNC technology in the local construction industry which points to new opportunities for innovation in the architectural field. We will also show that some experiments in architectural education involving rapid prototyping and digital fabrication may provide a lead towards the solution of this problem.

Computer graphics for building energy analysis

Abstract Two interactive computer programs, using extensive graphics, for the determination of thermal loads and other building characteristics are described. GOAL (General Outline Appraisal of Layouts) gives general input facilities and measures cost and performance attributes, including energy, at an early design stage, whilst the Environmental Systems Performance (ESP) model provides detailed energy analysis techniques applicable later in the design process. ESP consists of an input management section, a climate model, a dynamic thermal analysis module, and graphics output routines all linked by a common database. This paper discusses the use of graphics techniques in engineering software with particular examples from GOAL and ESP.

Human-Computer Interaction and Neural Networks in Architectural Design

Design research has demonstrated that neural networks are able to support creativity. However, there are two main problems with using neural networks in design. One is how you interact with such systems. The second relates to the integration between neural network techniques and other approaches. This paper will describe an integrated model in which those problems are addressed. The resulting system provides an interface in which the neural network output is translated into textual and graphic representations that can play a meaningful role in the design process.