B. Whitehead

Nuisance restrictions in the planning of single-storey layouts

Abstract Previous papers in this journal have described a computer program for the planning of single-storey layouts using data derived from human movement as the sole criterion. Other factors obviously affect building layout and this paper attempts to integrate some of those factors into a logical planning process.

Productivity in brick and block construction—a literature survey

Abstract A research project is under way to determine methods of brick and block laying which will, through the training of new and existing operatives, lead to greater productivity and to set these methods down in a Training Manual. This literature survey has been carried out as a first step in this process.

A study of movement in a school building

Abstract The authors (members of the Department of Building Science, University of Liverpool) have studied the movement of staff, pupils and others in a Secondary Modern School and have drawn tentative conclusions, which suggest that some assumptions generally made in planning the layout of such schools may not be valid. Suggestions leading towards a plan involving minimum movement cost are given.

A program for practical layout planning

Abstract Previous papers in this journal [ 1–3 ] have described the development of a computer program for the planning of single storey layouts. Recent improvements to the program logic, and additions to the number of facilities available, have however reduced the computer time required by the program and increased its usefulness as a practical planning tool. This paper describes both the improvements and additions and illustrates, with the aid of examples, how the program is now able to cope with most planning problems.

Automation of data preparation in computer programme for the planning of single-storey layouts

Abstract A previous paper in this journal (Vol 1. pp. 127–139) described a computer programme for the planning of single-storey layouts and said it eas probable that future work would extend the programme to cover a considerable amount of the manual working-up of data then necessary. This paper describes that extension.

The use of cluster analysis in multi-storey layout planning

Abstract The logical design of the layout of a multi-storey building is a conceptually and numerically complex task which, if an acceptable algorithm can be devised, is ideally suited to a computer-aided approach. Previous work in multi-storey layout planning at Liverpool [1] has been concerned with methods of defining vertical links. The present work considers the problem of allocation of activities to the various levels of a multi-storey building and computer-aided solution based on the use of techniques of cluster analysis is proposed. The principles of the computer program are described and its use in multi-storey layout planning is assessed.

Three dimensional layout planning

Abstract The design of the layout of a multi-storey building is a most complex task and the chances of manually achieving a design which provides a good solution in terms of the movement and inter-communication of people within the building are small. Three ways of tackling this problem were formulated and have been described. It is thought that they could, in their present state, provide help to practising designers but it is hoped in the future to integrate all aspects of the work done in Liverpool to produce a single, practical, economic and reliable approach to layout planning problems.

Provision for daylight in layout planning

Abstract This paper attempts to add a further factor to the work on layout planning described in previous papers in this journal [1–4]. Some spaces need to be provided with daylight and to be located accordingly; the merits of various methods of handling this requirement are discussed.

Data for generative layout planning programs

Abstract The use of computer programs for the layout planning of buildings requires some form of input data defining the relationships between activities. This data may be given on a derived rating scale (subjective data) or in terms of measured movement interchange (continuous data). The collection of continuous data can be a time consuming and costly process. Experimental work using a generative (construction-type) layout planning program identifies the effects of varying the precision of continuous data and indicates that more approximate forms than those presently employed may yield acceptable layout solutions.

Productivity in bricklaying

Abstract A literature survey revealed many aspects of the bricklaying process, in which previous work had shown improvements to be potentially possible but limitation of funds caused attention to be focused on the manual methods employed by the bricklayer himself. Analysis of film along with site studies resulted in the synthesis of a proposed method which has now been tested on a significant scale and shows promise of a considerable increase in productivity if the difficulties associated with training and tradition can be overcome.