Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research: Summary of Proposed Research Plan

The potentials of recent advancements in computer-driven, information-rich technologies have begun to effect the disciplines of architecture, planning, and design. The roles of computer-aided design tools are, however, still not completely specified, and it is the responsibility of research institutes, and in particular schools of architecture and design, to explore, define, and develop the uses of computers in architecture, planning, and design. The CAD program at the School of Architecture and Planning is based on the premise that research and education are both essential and interdependent components which provide students with necessary technical skills, improve methods of teaching fundamental design knowledge, and foster the exploration and development of new technologies and methodologies for computers in design. The program has been implemented in what the authors have termed the'Triad Methodology'of computer-aided architectural design: the teaching of CAD principles to students, the development of a strong research program, and the use of computer tools to enhance the school's general curriculum. The CAD Lab functions as a conduit for basic and advanced research intended to enhance architecture and planning through the use of computers. The faculty and graduate students have already demonstrated their interest and ability to undertake state of the art research in CAD. It is expected that these interests will continue and proliferate in the future. This paper briefly outlines the direction, scope, and required resources for computer related research at the School of Architecture and Planning in Buffal