Cumincad : CUMINCAD Papers : Search Results

CumInCAD is a Cumulative Index about publications in Computer Aided Architectural Design
supported by the sibling associations ACADIA, CAADRIA, eCAADe, SIGraDi, ASCAAD and CAAD futures

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_id	eb5f
authors	Al-Sallal, Khaled A. and Degelman, Larry 0.
year	1994
title	A Hypermedia Model for Supporting Energy Design in Buildings
source	Reconnecting [ACADIA Conference Proceedings / ISBN 1-880250-03-9] Washington University (Saint Louis / USA) 1994, pp. 39-49
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1994.039
summary	Several studies have discussed the limitations of the available CAAD tools and have proposed solutions [Brown and Novitski 1987, Brown 1990, Degelman and Kim 1988, Schuman et al 1988]. The lack of integration between the different tasks that these programs address and the design process is a major problem. Schuman et al [1988] argued that in architectural design many issues must be considered simultaneously before the synthesis of a final product can take place. Studies by Brown and Novitski [1987] and Brown [1990] discussed the difficulties involved with integrating technical considerations in the creative architectural process. One aspect of the problem is the neglect of technical factors during the initial phase of the design that, as the authors argued, results from changing the work environment and the laborious nature of the design process. Many of the current programs require the user to input a great deal of numerical values that are needed for the energy analysis. Although there are some programs that attempt to assist the user by setting default values, these programs distract the user with their extensive arrays of data. The appropriate design tool is the one that helps the user to easily view the principal components of the building design and specify their behaviors and interactions. Data abstraction and information parsimony are the key concepts in developing a successful design tool. Three different approaches for developing an appropriate CAAD tool were found in the literature. Although there are several similarities among them, each is unique in solving certain aspects of the problem. Brown and Novitski [1987] emphasize the learning factor of the tool as well as its highly graphical user interface. Degelman and Kim [1988] emphasize knowledge acquisition and the provision of simulation modules. The Windows and Daylighting Group of Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (LBL) emphasizes the dynamic structuring of information, the intelligent linking of data, the integrity of the different issues of design and the design process, and the extensive use of images [Schuman et al 19881, these attributes incidentally define the word hypermedia. The LBL model, which uses hypermedia, seems to be the more promising direction for this type of research. However, there is still a need to establish a new model that integrates all aspects of the problem. The areas in which the present research departs from the LBL model can be listed as follows: it acknowledges the necessity of regarding the user as the center of the CAAD tool design, it develops a model that is based on one of the high level theories of human-computer interaction, and it develops a prototype tool that conforms to the model.
series	ACADIA
email
last changed	2022/06/07 07:54

_id	c7f4
authors	Bancroft, Pamela J. (ed.)
year	1988
title	Computing in Design Education [ACADIA Conference Proceedings]
source	ACADIA ‘88 Conference Proceedings /Ann Arbor (Michigan / USA) 28-30 October 1988, 311 p.
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1988
summary	Progress is being made towards integrating computing into architectural design. This progress is not being made in a coordinated and systematic manner, which is actually a positive factor. Architects will never be scientists or engineers, who hold the distinguishing characteristic of being masters of the scientific method. We have never been so incumbered, although we certainly have given it our best effort. Architects are creative problem solvers, primarily driven by intuition, while coming from a sense of the past and the logic of the present. Our initial attempts at integrating computing into the studio, as evidenced by this collection of papers, is very diverse, based on differing pedagogical assumptions, and the achieving of significantly different results. This would appear to be evidence of a revolutionary approach to the problem rather than a scientific evolutionary approach. Terrific! This is when we as architects are at our best. Although we reach a great number of emphatically dead ends, the successes and discoveries achieved along the way are significant. The diversity and quality of papers submitted suggest that we are indeed pursuing the task of integration in our typical, individual, intuitive, logical manner. I commend all of the authors who submitted proposals and thank them for expanding the envelope of integration into their personal exploration.
series	ACADIA
last changed	2022/06/07 07:49

_id	c568
authors	Balachandran, M.B. and John S. Gero
year	1987
title	A Model for Knowledge Based Graphical Interfaces
source	AI '87: Proceedings of the Australian Joint Artificial Intelligence Conference. 1987. pp. 505-521. Also published in Artificial Intelligence Developments and Applications edited by J. S. Gero and R Stanton, North-Holland Pub. 1988. -- CADLINE has abstract only.
summary	This paper describes a model for knowledge-based graphical interface which incorporates a variety of knowledge of the domain of application. The key issues considered include graphics interpretation, extraction of features of graphics objects and identification of prototype objects. The role of such knowledge-based interfaces in computer-aided design is discussed. A prototype system developed in Prolog and C is described and its application in the domain of structural engineering is demonstrated
keywords	user interface, computer graphics, knowledge base, systems, civil engineering, structures
series	CADline
email
last changed	2003/06/02 13:58

_id	c6d5
authors	Balachandran, M.B.
year	1988
title	A Model for Knowledge-Based Design Optimization [PhD dissertation]
source	Dept. of Architectural Science, University of Sydney
summary	Unpublished. CADLINE has abstract only. This dissertation is concerned with developments in design decision methodologies applied to computer-aided design. The major aim of this research was to design and develop a knowledge-based computer-aided optimization system that has the ability to emulate some of the human performances in design decision processes. The issues and problems involved in developing a knowledge-based system for design optimization are addressed. A knowledge-based methodology to aid design optimization formulation is investigated. The major issues considered include representation of design description, the variety of knowledge required for the formulation process, recognizing optimization formulations, and selection of appropriate algorithms. It is demonstrated that the knowledge-based control of numerical processes leads to efficient and improved decisions in design. In developing knowledge-based systems for computer-aided decision applications an effective human-machine interface is essential. A model for knowledge-based graphical interfaces is proposed. This model incorporates knowledge for graphics interpretation, extraction of features of graphics objects and identification of prototypical objects. An experimental system developed in Prolog and C is demonstrated in the domain of structural design. The system shows one way of combining knowledge-based systems technology with computer graphics and indicates how knowledge-based interfaces improve the system's interactive capabilities. Finally, the system, OPTIMA, is presented. The system is designed as an integrated knowledge-based decision system using frames, rule bases, menu inputs, algebraic computation and optimization algorithms. The system has been written in LISP, Prolog and C and implemented on SUN Microsystems workstations. The performance of the system is demonstrated using two example problems from the domains of structural and architectural design respectively. The knowledge-based approach to design optimization is shown to be considerably easier and more efficient than those using conventional programs.
keywords	Knowledge Base, Systems, CAD, Representation, Design, Frames, Computer Graphics, User Interface, Decision Making
series	CADline
last changed	2003/06/02 13:58

_id	696c
authors	Beheshti, M. and Monroy, M.
year	1988
title	Requirements for Developing an Information System for Architecture
source	CAAD futures ‘87 [Conference Proceedings / ISBN 0-444-42916-6] Eindhoven (The Netherlands), 20-22 May 1987, pp. 149-170
summary	This paper discusses possibilities of developing new tools for architectural design. It argues that architects should meet the challenge of information technology and computer-based design techniques. One such attempt has been the first phase of the development of an architectural design information system (ADIS), also an architectural design decision support system. The system should benefit from the developments of the artificial intelligence to enable the architect to have access to information required to carry out design work. In other words: the system functions as a huge on-line electronic library of architecture, containing up-to-date architectural design information, literature, documents, etc. At the same time, the system offers necessary design aids such as computer programs for design process, drawing programs, evaluation programs, cost calculation programs, etc. The system also provides data communication between the architect and members of the design coalition team. This is found to be of vital importance in the architectural design process, because it can enable the architect to fit in changes, brought about in the project by different parties. Furthermore, they will be able, to oversee promptly the consequences of changes or decisions in a comprehensive manner. The system will offer advantages over the more commonly applied microcomputer based CAAD and IGDM (integrated graphics database management) systems, or even larger systems available to an architect. Computer programs as well as hardware change rapidly and become obsolete. Therefore, unrelenting investment pressure to up-date both software and hardware exists. The financial burden of this is heavy, in particular for smaller architectural practices (for instance an architect working for himself or herself and usually with few or no permanent staff). ADIS, as an on-line architectural design aid, is constantly up-dated by its own organisation. This task will be co-ordinated by the ADIS data- base administrator (DBA). The processing possibilities of the system are faster, therefore more complex processing tasks can be handled. Complicated large graphic data files, can be easily retrieved and manipulated by ADIS, a large system. In addition, the cost of an on-line system will be much less than any other system. The system is based on one model of the architectural design process, but will eventually contain a variety of design models, as it develops. The development of the system will be an evolutionary process, making use of its users' feed-back system. ADIS is seen as a step towards full automation of architectural design practices. Apart from being an architectural design support system, ADIS will assist the architect in his/her administrative and organisational activities.
series	CAAD Futures
last changed	2003/11/21 15:16

_id	c57b
authors	Bier, Eric A.
year	1988
title	Snap-Dragging. Interactive Geometric design in Two and Three Dimensions
source	University of California, Berkeley
summary	Graphic artists, mechanical designers, architects, animators, authors of technical papers and others create geometric designs (illustrations and solid models) as a major part of their daily efforts. Some part of this shape construction must be done with precision. For instance, certain line segments should be horizontal, parallel or congruent. In recent years, interactive computer programs have been used to speed up the production of precise geometric designs. These programs take advantage of high-speed graphics, equation solving, and computer input peripherals to reduce the time needed to describe point positions to the machine. Previous techniques include rounding the cursor to points on a rectangular grid, solving networks of constraints, and supporting step-by-step drafting-style constructions. Snap-dragging is a modification of the drafting approach that takes advantage of powerful workstations to reduce the time needed to make precise illustrations. Using a single gravity mapping, a cursor can be snapped to either points, lines or surface. The gravity algorithm achieves good performance by computing intersection points on the fly. To aid precise construction, a set of lines, circles, planes, and spheres, called alignment objects, are constructed by the system at a set of slopes, angles, and distances specified by the user. These alignments objects are constructed at each vertex or edge that the user has declared to be hot (of interest). Vertices and edges can also be made hot by the system through the action of an automatic hotness rule. When snap-dragging is used, shapes can often be constructed using a few more keystrokes than would be needed to sketch them freehand. Objects can be edited at arbitrary orientations and sizes. The number of primitive operations is small, making it possible to provide keyboard combinations for quickly activating most of these operations. The user interface works nearly identically in two or three dimensions. In three dimensions, snap-dragging works with a two-dimensional pointing device in a single perspective view.
series	thesis:PhD
email
last changed	2003/02/12 22:37

_id	8c6d
authors	Brooks, H. Gordon
year	1988
title	A New Communication Model for Architecture Using Video and 3D Computer Animated Graphics
source	Computing in Design Education [ACADIA Conference Proceedings] Ann Arbor (Michigan / USA) 28-30 October 1988, pp. 263-274
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1988.263
summary	The University of Arkansas School of Architecture has produced a half-hour television program describing Richard Meier's Atheneum in New Harmony, Indiana. The program uses an analysis technique developed by Dr. Geoffrey Baker, RIBA. The treatment for the material is a combination of on- site video and computer generated 3D animated graphics. An instrument was developed to evaluate the video and its 3D graphics. Based on analysis of the test data several conclusions are apparent. Students believe the video to be very helpful in understanding this building. This video appears to be paced too quickly for understanding in one viewing. Repetitive viewings of the video are helpful in understanding the content. Some students are able to understand principles presented visually better than those presented verbally, but best learning happens when information is reinforced visually and verbally.
series	ACADIA
last changed	2022/06/07 07:54

_id	caadria2011_061
id	caadria2011_061
authors	Celani, Gabriela; José P. Duarte and Carlos V. Vaz
year	2011
title	The gardens revisited: The link between technology, meaning and logic?
source	Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Computer Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia / The University of Newcastle, Australia 27-29 April 2011, pp. 643-652
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.caadria.2011.643
summary	The objective of this paper is to compare the computational concepts present in three books published by Mitchell between 1987 and 1990: The art of computer-graphics programming (1987), which has Robin Liggett and Thomas Kvan as co-authors, The logic of architecture (1990), probably his most influential work, and The poetics of gardens (1988), which has Charles Moore and William Turnbull as coauthors. By looking at the concepts that are presented in the three books and establishing a comparison between them, we expect to show that The poetics of Gardens should not be seen as a detour from Mitchell´s line of research, but rather as a key piece for understanding the relationship between technology, meaning and logic in his very coherent body of work.
keywords	Computational design concepts; technology; meaning; logic
series	CAADRIA
email
last changed	2022/06/07 07:55

_id	e1e2
authors	Danahy, John
year	1988
title	Engaging Intuitive Visual Thinking in Urban Design Modelling: A Real-Time Hypothesis
source	Computing in Design Education [ACADIA Conference Proceedings] Ann Arbor (Michigan / USA) 28-30 October 1988, pp. 87-97
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1988.087
summary	This paper will present prototypical software being used in the teaching of urban design to students and for use by professionals in the early stages of a project. The system is intended to support a heuristic approach to design. That is, it supports a process of refining ideas and understandings through a process of trial and error. The support or aid to design comes in the form of a didactic real-time programme. Its power lies in its ability to provide instantaneous response to operations on the data that can allow one to develop threedimensional spatial ideas in an intuitively driven manner. This condition appears to occur for both novice and expert computer operators. The presentation will present our experience to-date in using conventional computer graphic tools to represent design ideas and contrast it with a video demonstration of our prototypical dynamic urban design modelling software for the Silicon Graphics IRIS computers.
series	ACADIA
email
last changed	2022/06/07 07:55

_id	sigradi2018_1762
id	sigradi2018_1762
authors	de Albuquerque Montezi, Rafael; Tanoue Vizioli, Simone Helena
year	2018
title	Digital morphogenesis and tectonics: an analysis of Peter Eisenman’s Aronoff Center
source	SIGraDi 2018 [Proceedings of the 22nd Conference of the Iberoamerican Society of Digital Graphics - ISSN: 2318-6968] Brazil, São Carlos 7 - 9 November 2018, pp. 359-366
summary	The concept of architectural tectonics relates simultaneously to pragmatic and poetic aspects of the materiality, aiming the expression of these concerns in the result of the Form. Far from only a theoretical concerning, these design decisions affect how our society employs its natural and human resources. This work takes the Aronoff Center for Design and Arts (1988-1996), by Peter Eisenman, as a case study for a graphical analysis, dealing with the consequences of a free-form morphogenesis to its construction and investigating the tectonics of the contemporary architecture.
keywords	Contemporary Architecture; Digital Project; Tectonics
series	SIGRADI
email
last changed	2021/03/28 19:58

_id	6f1b
authors	De Floriani, Leila and Falcidieno, Bianca
year	1988
title	A Hierarchical Boundary Model for Solid Object Representation
source	ACM Transactions on Graphics. January, 1988. vol. 7: pp. 42-60 : ill. includes bibliography
summary	A new hierarchical model for solid object representation is described. This model, called a Hierarchical Face Adjacency Hypergraph (HFAH), is based on a relational description of the object boundary, called a Face Adjacency Hypergraph (FAH), which considers faces as the primary topological entities defining the object boundary. The HFAH consists of a hierarchy of FAHs describing the decomposition of the boundary of an object into form features. In this paper the HFAH is described together with its internal encoding structure. Two basic transformations, called refinement and abstraction, are defined on the hierarchical model; these allow effective and efficient modifications of the hierarchical boundary model
keywords	representation, computational geometry, solid modeling, algorithms, design, data structures, graphs, features, B-rep
series	CADline
last changed	2003/06/02 13:58

_id	sigradi2009_1055
id	sigradi2009_1055
authors	Ferreira, Jane Victal
year	2009
title	Pensando o tempo e o espaço [Thinking time and space]
source	SIGraDi 2009 - Proceedings of the 13th Congress of the Iberoamerican Society of Digital Graphics, Sao Paulo, Brazil, November 16-18, 2009
summary	This paper compares the musical and architectural languages exploring the similarities between works related to Twelve-tone music and Descontruction. To do this, first looks at Opus 27 by Anton Webern whose goal was to explore the spatiality in the context of sound perception by using a topology based on a square matrix of twelve rows and columns. Next, compares these procedures to those adopted by Peter Eisenman to design the conceptual model Guardiola House (1988), demonstrating the affinity between spatial and temporal constructions in the works of these two authors.
keywords	Peter Eisenman; Anton Webern; Dodecafonismo; Deconstrutivismo
series	SIGRADI
email
last changed	2016/03/10 09:51

_id	c057
authors	Ganter, John H.
year	1988
title	Interactive Graphics : Linking the Human to the Model
source	GIS/LIS'88 Proceeding accessing the world (3rd. : 1988 : San Antonio). December, 1988. Vol. 1: pp. 230-239 : ill. includes bibliography
summary	Discovery and innovation, which have traditionally involved thinking visually and producing images, increasingly benefit from labor-saving devices like GIS and CAD. As new visualization technologies are implemented, it is particularly important to understand the human faculties which use pictures as tools in thinking. Science and engineering define problems, explain processes, and design solutions through observation, imagination and logic. This conceptual thought relies on a cognitive `database' of sensed verbal and non-verbal information, which is retained, managed, and updated within the short and long-term human memories. Research suggests that the individual must actively manipulate a phenomenon under study and its representations to enhance and maintain this database, and to produce abstractions and generalizations. Graphics are particularly important in this process of discovering correlations, contradictions and connections, and subsequent communication to others. Graphics offer high information density, simultaneity, variable detail and the capacity for showing multivariate relations. A `gestalt' property leads to the discovery of new relationships since the graphic whole always exceeds the sum of its parts. A cycle occurs in which the individual interacts with the phenomenon and produces explicit knowledge in the form of graphics and text, testing and refining each against knowledge and abstractions held in the mind
keywords	information, computer graphics, perception, user interface, visualization, cognition, abstraction
series	CADline
last changed	2003/06/02 13:58

_id	c085
authors	Goldman, Glenn and Zdepski, M. Stephen
year	1988
title	Abstraction and Representation: Computer Graphics and Architectural Design
source	Computing in Design Education [ACADIA Conference Proceedings] Ann Arbor (Michigan / USA) 28-30 October 1988, pp. 205-215
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1988.205
summary	While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nature, there remains a long history of design exploration dependent on representation. Furthermore, methods of imager 3While there is evidence to support that many important aspects of architectural design are not graphically based, but analytical in nat
series	ACADIA
email
last changed	2022/06/07 07:51

_id	cc50
authors	Gossard, D.C., Zuffante, R.P. and Sakurai, H.
year	1988
title	Representing Dimensions, Tolerances, and Features in MCAE Systems
source	IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications. March, 1988. vol. 8: pp. 51-59 : ill. includes bibliography
summary	Presented is a method for explicitly representing dimensions, tolerances, and geometric features in solid models. The method combines CSG and boundary representations in a graph structure called an object graph. Dimensions are represented by a relative position operator. The method can automatically translate changes in dimensional values into corresponding changes in geometry and topology. The representation provides an important foundation for higher level application programs to automate the redesign of assemblies and to automate tolerance analysis and synthesis. A prototype interactive polyhedral modeler based on this representation was implemented
keywords	CAE, B-rep, representation, CAD, CAM, features, dimensioning, tolerances, graphs, topology, geometric modeling, assemblies
series	CADline
last changed	2003/06/02 14:42

_id	cd7b
authors	Hopgood, F. and Duce, D.
year	1988
title	Future Developments in Graphics and Workstations
source	CAAD futures ‘87 [Conference Proceedings / ISBN 0-444-42916-6] Eindhoven (The Netherlands), 20-22 May 1987, pp. 217-252
summary	The application of Computer Aided Design has been fragmented so far due to the lack of standards at the hardware and basic software level. The most impressive products have been turn-key systems using custom-built hardware with large software suites developed over a number of years. Such systems have often been difficult to modify and maintain. The very nature of such systems is that they are expensive to produce, have a limited market and, consequently, are expensive. Hardware and software advances over the last few years point to a change in this environment. The trend is towards hardware and software compatibility from the computer suppliers allowing software suppliers to target their offerings at a wider range of products. This produces a competitive market and the downward trend in hardware costs gives the possibility for systems of much lower cost and, consequently, opens up the market to a larger customer base. This paper will concentrate on the developments in single user workstations and graphics standards which should provide a firm base for this new environment.
series	CAAD Futures
last changed	1999/04/03 17:58

_id	6424
authors	Katz, Genevieve
year	1988
title	Paint Systems as a Design Tool .... "Oh Wow!"
source	Computing in Design Education [ACADIA Conference Proceedings] Ann Arbor (Michigan / USA) 28-30 October 1988, pp. 224-233
doi	https://doi.org/10.52842/conf.acadia.1988.224
summary	The use of computer graphics paint systems is investigated as a primary design tool in the architecture studio. Paint programs are more conducive than CAD systems to providing a supportive environment for the exploration of design concepts.
series	ACADIA
email
last changed	2022/06/07 07:52

_id	67ac
authors	Koivunen, Marja-Riitta and Mantyla, Martti
year	1988
title	Hut Windows : An Improved Architecture for a User Interface Management System
source	IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications. January, 1988. vol. 8: pp. 43-52 : ill. includes bibliography
summary	The design of Hut Windows, a user interface management system intended for applications in mechanical CAD, is the subject of this article. Hut Windows features a three-layered internal architecture, where the presentation, dialogue- control, and application processing layers are clearly separated from each other. This leads to increased simplicity and flexibility in user interface design over the more traditional situation where all of these layers are closely coupled
keywords	user interface, CAD, windowing, mechanical engineering
series	CADline
last changed	2003/06/02 13:58

_id	21b9
authors	Landsdown, J.
year	1988
title	Computers and Visualisation of Design Ideas: Possibilities and Promises
source	CAAD futures ‘87 [Conference Proceedings / ISBN 0-444-42916-6] Eindhoven (The Netherlands), 20-22 May 1987, pp. 71-80
summary	Drawing in all its various forms, from freehand sketching to detailed technical layout, is a type of modelling that designers find indispensable. In many cases, indeed, drawing is the only form of external modelling a designer uses. It has two basic functions: to assist in the externalisation and development of mental concepts and to help in the presentation of these concepts to others. The current thrust of work in computer graphics - although valuable - tends to concentrate almost exclusively on the presentation aspects and it is now possible to create images almost resembling photographs of real objects as well as production drawings of great accuracy and consistency. This paper summarises some of this presentation work as well as developments which might go further in assisting the activities and processes of design.
series	CAAD Futures
last changed	1999/04/03 17:58

_id	c7e9
authors	Maver, T.W.
year	2002
title	Predicting the Past, Remembering the Future
source	SIGraDi 2002 - [Proceedings of the 6th Iberoamerican Congress of Digital Graphics] Caracas (Venezuela) 27-29 november 2002, pp. 2-3
summary	Charlas Magistrales 2There never has been such an exciting moment in time in the extraordinary 30 year history of our subject area, as NOW,when the philosophical theoretical and practical issues of virtuality are taking centre stage.The PastThere have, of course, been other defining moments during these exciting 30 years:• the first algorithms for generating building layouts (circa 1965).• the first use of Computer graphics for building appraisal (circa 1966).• the first integrated package for building performance appraisal (circa 1972).• the first computer generated perspective drawings (circa 1973).• the first robust drafting systems (circa 1975).• the first dynamic energy models (circa 1982).• the first photorealistic colour imaging (circa 1986).• the first animations (circa 1988)• the first multimedia systems (circa 1995), and• the first convincing demonstrations of virtual reality (circa 1996).Whereas the CAAD community has been hugely inventive in the development of ICT applications to building design, it hasbeen woefully remiss in its attempts to evaluate the contribution of those developments to the quality of the built environmentor to the efficiency of the design process. In the absence of any real evidence, one can only conjecture regarding the realbenefits which fall, it is suggested, under the following headings:• Verisimilitude: The extraordinary quality of still and animated images of the formal qualities of the interiors and exteriorsof individual buildings and of whole neighborhoods must surely give great comfort to practitioners and their clients thatwhat is intended, formally, is what will be delivered, i.e. WYSIWYG - what you see is what you get.• Sustainability: The power of «first-principle» models of the dynamic energetic behaviour of buildings in response tochanging diurnal and seasonal conditions has the potential to save millions of dollars and dramatically to reduce thedamaging environmental pollution created by badly designed and managed buildings.• Productivity: CAD is now a multi-billion dollar business which offers design decision support systems which operate,effectively, across continents, time-zones, professions and companies.• Communication: Multi-media technology - cheap to deliver but high in value - is changing the way in which we canexplain and understand the past and, envisage and anticipate the future; virtual past and virtual future!MacromyopiaThe late John Lansdown offered the view, in his wonderfully prophetic way, that ...”the future will be just like the past, onlymore so...”So what can we expect the extraordinary trajectory of our subject area to be?To have any chance of being accurate we have to have an understanding of the phenomenon of macromyopia: thephenomenon exhibitted by society of greatly exaggerating the immediate short-term impact of new technologies (particularlythe information technologies) but, more importantly, seriously underestimating their sustained long-term impacts - socially,economically and intellectually . Examples of flawed predictions regarding the the future application of information technologiesinclude:• The British Government in 1880 declined to support the idea of a national telephonic system, backed by the argumentthat there were sufficient small boys in the countryside to run with messages.• Alexander Bell was modest enough to say that: «I am not boasting or exaggerating but I believe, one day, there will bea telephone in every American city».• Tom Watson, in 1943 said: «I think there is a world market for about 5 computers».• In 1977, Ken Olssop of Digital said: «There is no reason for any individuals to have a computer in their home».The FutureJust as the ascent of woman/man-kind can be attributed to her/his capacity to discover amplifiers of the modest humancapability, so we shall discover how best to exploit our most important amplifier - that of the intellect. The more we know themore we can figure; the more we can figure the more we understand; the more we understand the more we can appraise;the more we can appraise the more we can decide; the more we can decide the more we can act; the more we can act themore we can shape; and the more we can shape, the better the chance that we can leave for future generations a trulysustainable built environment which is fit-for-purpose, cost-beneficial, environmentally friendly and culturally significactCentral to this aspiration will be our understanding of the relationship between real and virtual worlds and how to moveeffortlessly between them. We need to be able to design, from within the virtual world, environments which may be real ormay remain virtual or, perhaps, be part real and part virtual.What is certain is that the next 30 years will be every bit as exciting and challenging as the first 30 years.
series	SIGRADI
email
last changed	2016/03/10 09:55

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