Possibilities and Problems in Applying Decision Support Systems for Special Challenges in the Design of Building Constructions

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine the possibility of using DSS in the engineering design of a special group of building constructions: 'cladded roofs'. These are roofs whose cladding is the same as the façade’s, giving buildings a homogeneous appearance. For architectural impression the roof is made of unusual materials and complex structures thus cannot be designed with traditional guidelines. The goal of using DSS is to facilitate and simplify the range of possible materials and structures, to assist and expedite finding the optimal version and to reduce the likelihood of design flaws. In addition to eco-efficiency in production, transportation, and energy consumption of buildings, we hold it to be important to reduce the amount of materials used to a necessary minimum. [1] To achieve this all materials should be used at places where their specific characteristics prevail most effectively. The criteria for applying DSS for ‘cladded roofs’ is the successful structuring of the necessary constructional data and variations. We propose a method to generate numerous proposed solutions and rank them based on their technical performance and value. The result is a kind of 'guided decision-making' which may be an important aid in the design of nonstandard structures.