Developing architectural visualization using virtual environments

Abstract

This thesis anticipates the emergence of virtual reality (VR) technology as an economical alternative to architectural presentation. As professionals, designers are trained to interpret two dimensional media spatially. Experience has shown that client (or user) interpretation of traditional media (two dimensional drawings and physical models) has led to discrepancy. Controlled two dimensional media may also serve as a seduction, often portraying unrealistic views. In the case of highly technical spaces, participatory design is a necessity. Successful communication of need and intent are critical to the overall success of the project in concept and in detailed design. The smallest error in communication may result in costly penalties, often at the expense of an architectural amenity or in material quality. This investigation attempts to eliminate the need for client translation by providing a more intuitive design environment via VR. The goal is to examine several types of environments/scenarios and to design an experiential/interactive envirorunent, three-dimensionally linking the user to the designer's solution and thought processes. Shared models will be posted over a network using VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language). The client will be able to use the model as a reference "book" by hyperlinked information attached to model geometry. Projects (not yet built) would be viewed at full scale (some in total immersion), from the same perspectives of their future reality i.e., allowing the client and designer to interact within the space during the design process. The intent is not to entirely recreate reality or to automate what is now performed manually, but to immediately express thought in a three dimensional world, enhancing collaboration and critique. The pursuit of this thesis is based on a theory which alters the conventional design-communication process to dynamically and positively impact the final product. Final data analysis will examine the process of creating and employing simulated environments for architecture, the pros/cons of implementing such a system, and the feasibility. The conclusion will recommend improving processes, systems, and the techniques employed for future "world building" of architectural space. As operating systems become more economical and simultaneously more powerful, computer modeling will enhance visualization. The design process approach will then turn from the "bird's eye/plan view" to the eye level perspective view. The model itself will evolve with the design as experiential scenes to ultimately be used as a design tool, as a communication tool, and perhaps finally as a resource --as cad and database information are linked today. --to be accessed throughout the project life cycle.