Some computer aids to architectural practice

[摘要] This study builds a case for an inner-office computerized information system that would increase the efficiency of the design process in the context of an architectural firm. The problem is looked at from two levels: (1) The overall operation of the office. (2) The detailed working of one division of the office -- in this case, the architectural programming and planning division which deals with the initial stages of the design process. At the division level, the development of and specifications for three computer programs are discussed. All three have a hierarchical tree-like data structure and are used for storage of the inventory of spaces in a project, building efficiency analysis and a plotting routine, respectively. At the overall level, the general approach towards developing an information system for shared data is outlined and one module of the proposed system, the space-type file, is described in further detail. Also demonstrated is the use of Linear Programming as a tool in solving architectural problems involving decision making. An example of a space allocation problem for a community college is formulated in Linear Programming terms.

[发布机构] Rice University