A Parametric Approach To Simulating Use-Patterns in Buildings - The Case Of Movement

Abstract

We describe one of the three core use-pattern building blocks of a parametric approach to simulating use-patterns in buildings. Use-patterns are modeled as events which use specified descriptions of spaces, actors and activities which constitute them. The simulation system relies on three fundamental patterns of use move, meet and do. The move pattern is considered in detail in this paper with specific reference to what we term the partial knowledge issue. Modeling decision making about how to move through the space (what path to take) depends on modeling the actor's partial access to knowledge. Visibility is used as an example of partial knowledge. The parametric approach described in the paper enables the clear separation of syntactical and semantic conditions which inform decisions and the coordination of decisions made by agents in a simulation of use-patterns. This approach contributes to extending the analytical capability of Building Information Models from the point of view of evaluating how a proposed building design may be used, given complex, interrelated patterns of use.