Facilitating integration of computational design processes in the design and production of prefabricated homes

ABSTRACT

This research utilizes computational design concepts to address dysfunction in the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) sector. The goal is to identify solutions by focussing on the integration of computational design concepts into computer-aided design (CAD) processes and into compatible prefabrication strategies. Precedents are examined and project work is used to set up the modelling framework of a three-storey, prefabricated residential building, allowing reflection and speculation on solutions to the problems identified. The computational design concept of the ‘design domain’ is employed to assist with set up of the modelling framework, while computational ‘design rules’ are implemented during the developed design stage, including the ‘declarative format’ which improves accessibility using visual programming graphs, and the ‘modular format’ which reveals combined effects between programming and prefabrication strategies. The intensity of integration between these computational design, AEC CAD and prefabrication processes is assessed, allowing solutions to be developed which could improve conventional AEC CAD practice and traditional AEC prefabrication processes.

KEYWORDS:

• Integration
• computational design
• AEC CAD
• prefabrication

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Queensland Government Accelerate Partnerships from 2014–16.