Video-Computer Imaging Techniques: the Effect of Presentation by Animation and Multiple Views on Comnnunicative Effectiveness of an Architectural Design

Abstract

In an attempt to enhance the communication between architect and client, research was conducted in the use of computer modelling and video imaging techniques for the final architectural presentation process. By superimposing the painted building design from the computer-aided design (CAD) system onto a digitized image of the intended location, a composite image was achieved. These techniques have advantages in creating realistic composite images of proposed building designs in their intended location within a short period of time. In order to provide more visual clues, a multiple view presentation was examined. In addition, the research attempted to present the video-computer in an animation sequence. This was done by creating a series of sequential composite images, and recording them frame by frame onto the video tape. Then, the animation presentation was played back in real time. The animation presentations were evaluated by comparing them with the multiple view presentations. Manual rendering and single viewpoint displays were also included in the comparisons in order to aid in interpretation of the results. Questionnaires were used to measure the capability of each presentation format in communicating the building design information to non-architecturally trained persons. The results indicate that video-computer presentations were equal to or better than manual rendering. The video-computer presentations, with their short production time, were more practical to use in the architectural process than the conventional presentations. The results of the comparisons revealed that video-computer presentations in animation format were superior to those of multiple view format in the depth cue category. On the other hand, video-computer presentations by multiple view format was found to be superior to animation format in communicating both size and scale. These results occurred under the different complexity levels of the buildings used.