Component-Based Spatial Reasoning

Abstract

The design process and ordering of individual components through which architecture is realized relies on the use of abstract “modelsi to represent a proposed design. The emergence and use of these abstract “models” for building representation has a long history and tradition in the field of architecture. Models have been made and continue to be made for the patron, occasionally the public, and as a guide for the builders. Models have also been described as a means to reflect on the design and to allow the design to be in dialogue with the creator.  The term “modeli in the above paragraph has been used in various ways and in this context is defined as any representation through which design intent is expressed. This includes accurate/ rational or abstract drawings (2- dimensional and 3-dimensional), physical models (realistic and abstract) and computer models (solid, void and virtual reality). The various models that fall within the categories above have been derived from the need to “view” the proposed design in various ways in order to support intuitive reasoning about the proposal and for evaluation purposes. For example, a 2-dimensional drawing of a floor plan is well suited to support reasoning about spatial relationships and circulation patterns while scaled 3-dimensional models facilitate reasoning about overall form, volume, light, massing etc. However, the common denominator of all architectural design projects (if the intent is to construct them in actual scale, physical form) are the discrete building elements from which the design will be constructed. It is proposed that a single computational model representing individual components supports all of the above “models” and facilitates “viewing” the design according to the frame of reference of the viewer.  Furthermore, it is the position of the authors that all reasoning stems from this rudimentary level of modelling individual components.  The concept of component representation has been derived from the fact that a “real” building (made from individual components such as nuts, bolts and bar joists) can be “viewed” differently according to the frame of reference of the viewer. Each individual has the ability to infer and abstract from the assemblies of components a variety of different “models” ranging from a visceral, experiential understanding to a very technical, physical understanding. The component concept has already proven to be a valuable tool for reasoning about assemblies, interferences between components, tracing of load path and numerous other component related applications. In order to validate the component-based modelling concept this effort will focus on the development of spatial understanding from the component-based model. The discussions will, therefore, center about the representation of individual components and the development of spatial models and spatial reasoning from the component model. In order to frame the argument that spatial modelling and reasoning can be derived from the component representation, a review of the component-based modelling concept will precede the discussions of spatial issues