Distributed Representation of an Architectural Model

This thesis proposes a new strategy for design representation that uses dynamically decentralized design objects, distributed over the web and instantiated just-in-time, instead of the traditional centralized, static and local CAD model. It addresses the problem of coping with dynamic information changes that architects face when designing with increasingly time-sensitive product information from multiple suppliers. The dissertation describes the new distributed architecture for design representation, and outlines a corresponding new process model to address the needs of AEC (Architectural, Engineering and Construction) industries'architectural designers during design and procurement phases. The feasibility of the process was tested in a prototype system that combines existing state-of-the-art technologies. The prototype integrates the direct manipulation functionality of Autodesk's i-Drop technology with the Internet communication protocols HTTP and TCP/IP, and a VBA macro running from within AutoCAD 2000i. In the proposed model, libraries of AEC objects, representing suppliers'products, are located in multiple suppliers'databases and are made available to CAD designers remotely over the Web. Suppliers using the system are expected to produce product information as XML documents. This standardizes the interface with the remote designers.