A conceptional framework for rapid prototyping system for architectural visualization

Abstract

Visualizing design through various mediums such as model building, rendering and drawing has always been the primary means of communication in the field of architecture. Recently, computer technology has became one of the important methods for conveying ideas space and form. Architects are always faced with the unenviable task of creating a design that not only meets the requirements of the client or prospective users, but with meeting various regulations such as zone laws, fire codes etc. In addition, they are constrained by other issues such as the surrounding context, economics etc. These requirements are frequently contradictory and no single design can meet all these requirements satisfactorily. Architects are often forced to make changes and compromises that effect the quality of the final design. Computing tools can help make these decisions easier by allowing the designer to analyze the designs for various considerations such as aesthetics, building systems and regulatory issues. Currently available computing technologies such as CAD packages allow architects to visualize their final designs through the medium of the computer. Most of these technologies perform specific tasks and involve tedious and complex input procedures which makes them unsuitable for use during the design process. Rapid prototyping technologies can play an important role in the architectural design process. These technologies, currently being used in the manufacturing sector have proven useful in reducing the design development cycles. They can assist in several aspects of the design process, from the conceptual design through the execution of the final design. This study analyses the use of existing prototyping technologies, identifies the required components of a rapid prototyping system and discusses a conceptual framework for architectural visualization.