A virtual product model for conceptual building design evaluation

An investigation of the process used by architects and engineers to evaluate conceptual designs of a building has contributed to knowledge of computer methods in support of design. The first contribution, the Interpret-Predict-Assess model of the design evaluation process, describes activities performed by designers. The argument for the model of the design evaluation process is supported by theory and by a software prototype, the Semantic Modeling Extension (SME). The software demonstrates that the model is sufficient for implementation as software. The second contribution is the invention and demonstration of the concept of a Virtual Product Model that is based upon form, function and behavior. During operation, SME collects elements of a building description into a shared repository that acts as an electronic product model of the design. The Virtual Product Model is a comprehensive and non-redundant representation that arises from the actions of drawing and evaluating a building design and can adapt to changing information needs during the design process. The research provides a theoretical argument in support of the Virtual Product Model and software to demonstrate that it can be implemented. The third contribution, the Charrette Test Method, was devised to provide empirical evidence that designers could use the SME software and that the software could improve the design process. The Charrette Test Method compares an innovative process to a conventional process by using multiple trials with multiple participants and measuring speed of trials and accuracy of results. A charrette was conducted that compared a manual process for evaluating building designs to a process aided by SME. SME was demonstrated to be somewhat slower than the manual process but much more accurate.; In contrast to accepted practice of deriving product models by representing physical components, this research illustrates that a model of the design evaluation process can serve as a framework for a product model. The resulting Virtual Product Model provides a higher degree of flexibility than other product models and may better support creative design. The Charrette Test Method is a way of collecting evidence regarding computer-aided design processes that is theoretically superior to commonly used methods.