Algorithmic redesign of structures with box-shaped compartments

Abstract

The nature of a geometric structural model described by box-shaped compartments and the reordering of such a model is explored in this paper. By constructing the model within a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, the internal structure of the model can be redesigned in an efficient manner through consideration of the characteristics of the changes in wall dimensions and positions. Each change results in the intrusion of one compartment into the space occupied by one or more of its neighbors. There is a finite number of variations of intrusions of one box-shaped compartment into another. Space within an intruded neighbor can always be divided into a number of smaller box-shaped volumes, and that number can be minimized. An algorithmic method designed for computer use optimizes redesign when a large number of changes to the model are required. The method emphasizes a specified order to the search for intruded neighbors and optimizes the number of intrusion classes required in storage through coordinate translation and rotation.