Interpretation Objects for Multi-Disciplinary Design

A conceptual approach and a prototype implementation, Semantic Modeling Extension (SME), for representing multi-disciplinary semantic meaning of a shared 3D graphic building model and an open system integration architecture which enables designers to share a graphic 3D model, yet dynamically support multiple interpretations of the design.

Abstract

The computer-based representation of semantic meaning for multi-disciplinary design remains a difficult problem. Commercial computer-aided design (CAD) systems which emulate the drafting metaphor are inadequate for representing complex semantics and accommodating dynamic changes during the design stage. Research computer systems which impose a formal symbolic approach for representing designs typically are unable to support fast, multi-faceted visualization and feedback that designers can obtain with pencil and paper. By building upon design theory literature and observation of a case study of an actual building design project, we have identified and devised computational strategies for addressing these needs. We describe a conceptual approach and a prototype implementation, Semantic Modeling Extension (SME), for representing multi-disciplinary semantic meaning of a shared 3D graphic building model. SME is part of an on-going research project which explores the development of an Interdisciplinary Communication Medium (ICM) for collaborative design. Our approach distinguishes sharply between the interactive graphic model necessary for creative design and the symbolic models necessary for automated reasoning, yet provides a dynamic link between the graphic model and the symbolic models. The fundamental concepts discussed in this paper include: (1) Context, a domain of relatively independent reasoning about the design performance; (2) Feature Object, a pointer to a graphic entity and an associated symbolic object, representing the meaning of that graphic entity within a particular Context; (3) Interpretation Object, a Context and an associated list of Features; and (4) Interpretation Manager Object, a list of Interpretation Objects associated with a shared 3D building model to support multiple points of view. The prototype provides an open system integration architecture which enables designers to share a graphic 3D model, yet dynamically support multiple interpretations of the design. We describe the operation of SME with an illustrative example.