This study is concerned with the development of a practical and effective
form of computer-aided analysis of the visual impact of building
development in rural areas. Its contribution is fourfold. Firstly, a
conceptual model has been developed for the process of seeing in the
context of visual impact analysis. Secondly, a mathematical model for a
consistent series of visual descriptors has been devised. Thirdly, a
suitable design tool has been devised to make use of visual descriptors
in visual impact analysis. Fourthly, visual descriptors have actually been
implemented as computer software.
The concept of visual impact analysis is defined and placed within the
wider context of landscape research. The problems faced by a designer in
the context of visual impact analysis are identified and the concept of a
'design tool' is introduced and defined. A number of existing computer
software packages, intended or used for visual impact analysis, are
reviewed critically. The concept of 'visual descriptors' as measures to be
used by designers is introduced and examined critically. A conceptual
model is presented for the process of seeing in the context of visual
impact analysis. A range of possible measures for use as visual
descriptors is presented and developed further into a series of precise
definitions. A method of implementing visual descriptors is presented
together with formal algorithms for the derivation of eight visual
descriptors. A software package incorporating these descriptors is
presented and verification and case studies of its use carried out. Visual
descriptors, as implemented, are assessed for their effectiveness as a
design tool for visual impact analysis.Strathclyde University
Dept. of Architecture and
Building Scienc
