Integrating Building Code Compliance Checking into a 3D CAD System

Abstract

This paper outlines an integrated framework for a building design system capable of automatically building code compliance checking. Most previous studies have focused on the processing of design codes for conformance checking. In this work, the author investigates 3D CAD (three dimensional Computer-Aided-Design) techniques to support automated code compliance checking during the design process. In particular, the paper addresses the following issues (1) Extraction of the knowledge from a building code document (e.g. International Building Code), and representation of the knowledge in a computer-interpretable format; (2) Data representation of building designs in a 3D CAD system. (3) Mapping building code information with building design information that enables the computer to assist designers with the automatic code compliance checking; and (4) Integration of the knowledge in building codes and the design knowledge into a computer framework. The proposed framework will be able to identify code requirements relevant to a particular building design and notify designers whether the design violates the building code.