Computing in Architectural Design

Computing in Architectural Design…..by Yehunda Kalay

provided a history of computing in architectural design dating back to Mesopotamia around 5000-2000 BC. There was as much of a need for precision in geometry while building that structure as there is now with the Apple store in New York City. Kalay discusses the evolution of computer-aided design in terms of “generations”.

The first generation CAD systems concentrated on [1] geometric modeling, geared toward supporting the needs of mechanical industries; and [2] buildings, geared towards supporting the needs of the construction industry. Therefore this generation of systems was often referred to as “building design systems”. While the second generation CAD systems became known as “drafting and modeling systems”. This was primarily due to the needs of the architectural community. Similar to the first generation, CAD systems required large and powerful computers to support the calculation-intensive computations needed to manipulate and display geometrical constructions. These systems also required expensive display hardware, specialized input devices, and graphic oriented input devices; thus, could only be afforded by large companies. As the personal computer became smaller and affordable due to the Apple II the demand for useful software became prevalent. In January 1984 Macintosh was introduced and they soon developed early CAD systems like MacDraft. While this was a giant stepping-stone the capabilities of these systems were limited and non-professional. Autodesk and other software companies began to introduce/write software that bridged the gap; and supported architectural design. With this progression architects gained the ability to draft and communicate designs with photo-realistic renderings. Kaylay says, Third generation CAD systems “seem very similar to the first-generation CAD system, which were centered on architectural objects and were intended to support the design, not merely the representation of buildings.” Meanwhile, the electronics industry developed software that could truly aide in the design in ways that no human can do so. This development left an impact on the architectural industry as well as many other disciplines. While there’s always room for improvement I believe we should approach with caution the demands we place on the computer [aid-ing] human designers.

With that notion, Kalay expresses the roles of computing in architectural design.

Computers are instruments with no intelligence of their own as humans we use them as design tools, means of communication, and as a design assistants.

Design Tools

Ex: Drafting and modeling tools are examples of, see what can’t be seen by naked eye, realistically visualize buildings that do not yet exist, measuring instruments

Communication

Ex: members of design team can communicated efficiently and effectively

Design Assistant

Ex: human designer can be relieved of performing mundane tasks

The roles of computers are significance regarding architectural design and are still rapidly changing….thus effecting architects, designers, as well as the environment.