Dynamic simulation in virtual environments as an evaluation tool for architectural design

Abstract

Prediction and evaluation of future performance of buildings are essential aspects of an efficient design process. This paper discusses dynamic simulation as a prediction and evaluation tool for architectural design. It is proposed that since buildings are living entities, whole life cycles of buildings should be dynamically simulated in a highly visualized virtual environment to evaluate the future performance of prospective designs. The media of architectural design (paper-based media: drawings and physical scale models; and digital media) are compared in terms of their capacity to support dynamic simulations. Some promising application areas are mentioned and some proposals are presented for the future use of dynamic simulations in virtual environments.