Architectural Design Research Articles

Evolving trends and challenges in sustainable architectural design; a practice perspective

Architects play a crucial role in shaping sustainable built environments that balance utility and aesthetics without compromising ecological integrity. Hence embracing sustainability remains an urgent imperative as construction activities expand to meet Nigeria’s development needs. This research examines how architects in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria are assimilating principles of sustainability within their design practices against a transforming professional backdrop. The study utilized primary data targeting 126 registered architectural firms in the study area through a questionnaire survey and achieved 88.9% response rate. Data were analyzed using JASP and Pearson product moment correlation. Results revealed high conceptual awareness of sustainability among architects, with 32.2% consistently applying strategies like renewable energy systems in designs. Economic considerations and supportive regulations emerged as key assimilation motivators. However, uneven integration levels underline lingering barriers. While 40.6% rated sustainability incorporation in education as very good, 13.5% perceived it as moderate, indicating gaps in practical competencies. Statistical analysis (P-value = 0.001) showed a significant positive relationship between architects' awareness of sustainability concepts and their implementation of sustainable design practices. These findings highlight the need for strengthened educational programs, policy incentives, and industry collaborations to accelerate sustainable architecture adoption. Recommendations include updating curricula, mandating green ratings for public projects, incentivizing developers, and promoting interdisciplinary knowledge transfer. By addressing identified gaps, it implies that architects can lead the sustainability transition while meeting local built environment needs, ensuring a more climate-compatible and socially equitable habitat creation.

Diffusion-Cap: A diffusion model for image captioning

Abstract While autoregressive image caption generation models have achieved remarkable success, they are still constrained in generation speed, which may become a bottleneck in practical applications. To address this challenge, our research introduces the Diffusion Image Captioning Model (Diffusion-Cap). This innovative, non-autoregressive framework conceptualizes image captioning as a process that unifies continuous and discrete diffusion. By exploring two distinct architectural designs, our research investigates optimal strategies for the image captioning diffusion process. Comprehensive assessments on the MSCOCO dataset confirm the superior performance of our Diffusion-Cap, surpassing existing non-autoregressive benchmarks in crafting accurate captions.

Dynamic MIMO Architecture Design for Near-Field Communications

Dynamic MIMO Architecture Design for Near-Field Communications

Efficient security interface for high-performance Ceph storage systems

Ceph portrays a resilient clustered storage solution with supporting object, block, and file storage capabilities with no single point of failure. Despite these qualifications, data confidentiality defines a concern in the system, as authentication and access control are the only data protection security services in Ceph. CephArmor was proposed as a third-party security interface to protect data confidentiality by adding an extra protection layer to data at rest. Despite the added layer, the initial design of the API needed to be more efficient in addressing security and performance simultaneously. In this study, we propose a new architectural design to address the associated issues with the preliminary prototype. Comprehensive performance and security analysis verify the improvement of the proposed method compared to the initial approach. The benchmark result has indicated a 37% improvement on average in IOPS, elapsed time, and bandwidth for the write benchmark compared to the initial model.

INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL FABRICATION LABORATORIES AND COMPUTATIONAL DESIGN INTO THE ARCHITECTURE CURRICULUM IN TÜRKİYE

The discipline of architecture undergoes transformation practically, cognitively, and pedagogically due to the widespread use of digital design and fabrication technologies in design processes. This paper aims to eluctade the integration of digital fabrication and computational design with architectural design education at undergraduate level. For this purpose, this study examined the undergraduate course contents and spatial conditions of leading universities with digital fabrication laboratories under three headings: digital design, digital fabrication, and spatial reflections. In addition, this research applied semi-structured interviews with the relevant faculty members of three universities that have robotic tools to obtain more detailed information about their pedagogical approaches. According to this study, the curriculum and laboratories are rapidly changing. As a result, architecture departments are expanding their facilities by building laboratories and tools that have the potential for architectural education to fill the gap between practice and theory. However, there are economic limitations to implementing digital fabrication technologies in terms of the tools and materials used by hundreds of students. This research discusses the requirements, potentials, and limitations of theoretical and practical training through digital fabrication tools that should be included in these courses in the curriculum.

Energy Efficiency of Educational Buildings Through Envelope Design Based on Field Observations and Sefaira Simulation (Case Study: FIP B Building)

Abstract The dense activity in the FIP B Building makes energy optimization in the building very important because it will impact faculty operations. This research shows deficiencies in the design of the existing FIP B building, which can be corrected through a number of aspects of change based on field observation and Sefaira Simulation that can increase the building’s energy efficiency in the form of adding skylights, creating an atrium, and increasing the window-to-wall ratio. The value of increasing the efficiency of the new model compared to the existing one is known by the Sefaira energy performance simulation for both model envelopes. The results of the simulation show that the greatest increase in efficiency is in the use of AHU fans, the second is in AHU cooling, and the lowest is in interior lighting and equipment. However, lighting usage has the potential to be more efficient with the relatively improved daylight accessibility in the new design model. The overall annual energy use and EUI level in the new model are slightly more efficient than the existing model. The result of this study provides aspects of consideration in the architectural design of campus buildings with large masses.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Dynamic Facades for Natural Daylight and Energy Usage in Buildings

Abstract In this research, we explore the integration of dynamic facades to enhance both aesthetics and energy efficiency in buildings. The study introduces two dynamic facade designs, one employing a triangular shape and the other inspired by origami folds, aiming to compare their effectiveness in optimising natural daylight and overall energy usage. The triangular facade features movable wings that dynamically regulate natural light, balancing visual appeal and practical functionality. Similarly, the origami-inspired design adapts to external conditions, creating a symbiotic relationship between form and function. The research employs Python and Rhino 7 with Honeybee and Pollination plug-ins for a comparative analysis. The evaluation includes Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA300,50) exceeding 55%, Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE1000,250) no more than 10%-20%, and optimal facade opening angles based on daylight factor (df) values. The dynamic facades are examined for their impact on energy efficiency, encompassing factors like natural daylight, and operational energy. Through this analysis, the study aims to determine which dynamic facade design, triangular or origami-inspired, proves superior in optimising natural daylighting and overall energy usage. This research contributes valuable insights into the balance of innovative architectural designs and sustainable energy practices, potentially influencing future building designs.

Comparative Analysis of the Distribution of Natural Lighting with Artificial Lighting in Auditorium at Indonesia University of Education, at Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences Building

Abstract This article provides an indepth analysis of the lighting conditions in the auditorium at the Indonesia University of Education, specifically within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of both natural light from windows and artificial light from lamps in accommodating large gatherings of up to 300 people. Using AutoCAD and DIALux, we conduct a simulation experiment to visualize the lighting system, considering factors such as the distribution of natural light and the impact of artificial lighting. Our methodology involves specific parameters for data analysis to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. While observing the auditorium, we note potential challenges, such as the limited impact of natural light. This finding raises questions about the need for adjustments to the architectural design or the inclusion of additional natural light sources. Conversely, the artificial lighting appears to be abundant and sufficient for illuminating the entire space. Considering the broader implications, the study addresses the significance of optimizing lighting conditions in auditoriums for improved user experience and potential energy efficiency. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on effective lighting design in educational spaces. This research is not without limitations, and future work could explore more nuanced aspects of lighting design or investigate the feasibility of implementing sustainable lighting solutions. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights into auditorium lighting, guiding future research and practical interventions for enhanced lighting conditions in similar settings.

Software Architecture Design of ASV Rybitwa: Development of an Autonomous Surface Vehicle for Dynamic Navigation and Task Execution

Abstract This paper introduces the software design of an Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV) named ASV Rybitwa. It was designed as an easily transportable platform capable of autonomous navigation and performing tasks during the RoboBoat 2024 competition, with emphasis on its modularity, generality and extendibility. The paper presents a software architecture for a small autonomous surface vehicle using novel tools that provide easy system integration and expansion. To meet such requirements, a generic control box connecting an autopilot (PX4) and a onboard computer (NVIDIA Jetson Nano) was developed so as to host the Robot Operating System 2 (ROS2) and to interact with sensors and actuators. Computer vision from three Oak-D cameras, equipped with AI algorithm support (YOLOv8), was used for navigation and obstacle avoidance. The decision-making system was designed using behavioural trees and computer vision, allowing the vehicle’s capabilities to be adapted to the needs of the current tasks and mission. In addition, an Omni X propulsion system was proposed, providing full holonomy and enhancing dynamic positioning and navigation capabilities in complex navigational conditions. In addition this paper describes lessons learned from ASV Rybitwa’s real-world testing during the aforementioned competition.

A model-driven, metrics-based approach to assessing support for quality aspects in MLOps system architectures

In machine learning (ML) and machine learning operations (MLOps), automation serves as a fundamental pillar, streamlining the deployment of ML models and representing an architectural quality aspect. Support for automation is especially relevant when dealing with ML deployments characterised by the continuous delivery of ML models. Taking automation in MLOps systems as an example, we present novel metrics that offer reliable insights into support for this vital quality attribute, validated by ordinal regression analysis. Our method introduces novel, technology-agnostic metrics aligned with typical Architectural Design Decisions (ADDs) for automation in MLOps. Through systematic processes, we demonstrate the feasibility of our approach in evaluating automation-related ADDs and decision options. Our approach can itself be automated within continuous integration/continuous delivery pipelines. It can also be modified and extended to evaluate any relevant architectural quality aspects, thereby assisting in enhancing compliance with non-functional requirements and streamlining development, quality assurance and release cycles.

Integration of structural designers workflows into BIM

BIM has revolutionized architectural design workflows. In this process, the work of structural engineers is based on the work of many other disciplines, and their decisions are input data for them. However, these data are not always provided in a structured form. Live load and composite load values are typically such data, which may change very frequently during the design process. This research explores BIM-based tools for interdisciplinary collaboration between architectural and structural disciplines, focusing on managing design changes. In this article, automatic load definition possibilities were explored and adapted to the BIM methodology by using Archicad, Revit and Allplan. The software options and their logic differed greatly, but the principled methodology can be applied in each case. It was demonstrated that by linking the database-based load values to the model, the load cases can be generated more or less automatically for which the structural analysis can be run.

TOGAF's Approach in Developing an Enterprise Architecture for the Information Technology Security Industry

The information technology security industry, encompassing various activities such as risk identification and assessment, policy development, and solution implementation, plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of information systems. This study aims to develop and implement an efficient and effective enterprise architecture within the information security sector, focusing on three key core processes identified as the major revenue contributors: risk identification and assessment, security policy development, and security solution implementation. Utilizing the TOGAF-based Enterprise Architecture framework, this research identifies and designs architecture that integrates various systems, applications, and business processes, facilitating better alignment within the organization. The architecture design process involves a thorough analysis of operational needs and business strategies, leading to the development of a model that enhances efficiency and reduces the risk of failure in technology implementation. The outcomes of this study are intended to provide practical guidance for information security companies to optimize operations, simplify system complexities, and achieve strategic goals more effectively. It is anticipated that the application of the designed architecture will have a significant positive impact on the company's ability to address challenges and dynamic needs within the information security industry.

Intelligent Generation and Reinforcement Learning Strategy of Architectural Design CAD Models

Intelligent Generation and Reinforcement Learning Strategy of Architectural Design CAD Models

The Silicon Architect: Transformation Towards a Data-Centric Mindset

This paper investigates the emergence of a novel ‘data-centric’ mindset within architecture and its implications for the architectural design process. Defined by engagement with new technology (Data Science, Big Data, Machine Learning) this mindset is driving new insight toward novel aesthetics and ultimately new disciplinary hypotheses. The literature review first tracks distinguishable transitions in the architectural mindset through the architects that have embodied them (Master Builder, Beaux-Art, Modernist, and Parametric Architect) culminating with what is here termed the ‘Silicon Architect’. Next, three archetypal case studies reveal how the architectural design process is re-potentialized through a data-centric mindset, allowing architects to ultimately escape their imaginative limits and arrive at new disciplinary ambitions. The data-centric inclinations of these architects have resulted in a fusion of human-machine cognition. Through this ‘composite’ cognition, architects can now push beyond more typical ambitions (i.e. the creation of novel forms) toward an encounter with notions of ‘hypotheses generation’ and ‘disciplinary prospection’ via non-human cognitive input. This new mindset emerging in the Silicon Architect is set to re-direct the architectural design process, and in doing so, help the discipline escape the limits of its own paradigmatic imagination in ways that operate beyond human cognitive capabilities. In this sense, research sheds light on the influences that may shape future architectural design processes and the architects who may evolve.

تحليل وتصميم شبكة محلية لاسلكية آمنة للحرم الجامعي في الجامعات الليبية

This research presents the wireless university campus network and discusses about the strengths and weaknesses of Design a secure wireless campus networks for ABC University in Libya, and about the costs and advantages of different vendor solutions. Wireless offers mobility and is available in locations where a wired outlet doesn't exist. The disadvantages of wireless include some minor interference problems and a quickly evolving and competitive group of standards. The purpose of the research is designing and implementing a secure campus network for Libyan university based on Cisco equipments. Moreover, the research can provide practical experience in network design, configuration, and security for helping organizations and institutions protect their network resources and data. Two end products or deliverables will result from the research: the first is a new architectural design for an efficient and advanced WLAN-friendly network to ensure the high performance of the data transaction process and ensure high availability of data transmissions. The second product is a report for network administrators or network architecture to guide users towards the achievement of WLAN-friendly by utilising advanced networking tools and technologies. Keywords: - Campus network; Wireless Mesh Network; wireless network; Encryption; Cisco equipment; security.

Certification considerations and sound field simulation of civil aircraft cabin passenger address

Abstract In the design of a civil aircraft cabin passenger address system, it is quite necessary and very important to sufficient consider and demonstrate the system design architecture, equipment selection and arrangement to ensure that the system sound quality complies with the requirements of CCAR25.1423(c). In the design phase, the certification considerations of the passenger address system should be researched in advance to comply with CCAR25.1423(c). The cabin sound field distribution and STI of the civil aircraft cabin passenger address system should be simulated through professional tools to predict, demonstrate and judge the sound quality before the system preliminary design review (PDR). In this paper, the certification considerations of passenger address are developed and elaborated from the system equipment arrangement, automatic gain design, and inhibit method of the Larsen effect. Based on two loudspeaker arrangement options, the cabin sound field distribution and STI of the passenger address are simulated to indicate its compliance with CCAR 25.1423(c) from the proposal design level theoretically.

Maintenance factory platform for in-space manufacturing: Conceptualizing design architecture

Commerce, long-term habitation, and far-location explorations are the objectives of the next space era, also called Space 2.0. These objectives are the focus of in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) research. Current research in this area is focused on demonstrating various manufacturing processes under microgravity using the International Space Station (ISS) as a platform and relies on an Earth-based supply chain. Building operational infrastructure and supply chains enabling in-space manufacturing is critical for the sustained growth of ISAM to meet the goals of Space 2.0. This paper is specifically focused on discussing the need and potential architecture for a maintenance factory in space to enable servicing, maintenance, and repairs in space environments. Space presents a hostile environment and a new set of challenges to establish a robust infrastructure necessary for supporting these objectives. The realization of such an infrastructure, including physical and digital footprints, is demanding new manufacturing science and engineering tools and platforms for maintenance. The authors present requirements of a robust maintenance platform, called a “factory in space” to deliver multi-functional maintenance service station(s) across various operational points in space such as low-earth orbit, lunar surface, and Martian surface. Such factories are projected to be an essential part of the in-space infrastructure for short as well as long-term commerce, habitation, and exploration. A critical analysis of this concept is proposed through an analysis of the state of the art, boundary conditions in space and requirements of maintenance, the role of manufacturing, and the design as well as sustainability considerations for a maintenance factory in space.

Sketching Versus Digital Design Tools in Architectural Design

Sketching is a design tool that can be assumed to be ill-structured, does not offer exact solutions, is intuitive, and is open-ended in the initial stages of architectural design. Sketching creates an opportunity for architects to release their creativity and intuition, giving rise to spontaneous ideas and concepts in an organic and natural way. During the initial design phases, like in the conceptual stage of the design, designers receive aid from conventional sketching as their concepts and ideas can easily transform into tangible, real-world forms. With the development of digital design methods like CAD (computer-aided design) in pursuit of AI (artificial intelligence), it has been accepted that manual sketches are no longer the only method used in the design process, and the trend toward using new methods has begun. The diversity and evolution of tools used in architectural design, together with the integration of CAD, AI, and traditional sketching techniques, have contributed to the development of architectural design and facilitated enhanced collaboration, visualization, and efficiency across the design process. As a result, it has evolved to embrace the use of CAD, which was the first method adopted from these developments, as a basic skill in the field of architectural design education. This shift places a strong emphasis on the professional field of architectural design while also encouraging students to explore the innovative potential of CAD for design purposes. CAD presents architects with a robust platform that facilitates the creation of intricate designs and precise measurements during the initial stages of the design process. Following CAD, the development of AI-driven design tools motivates architecture students and designers to transform their concepts into concrete designs. Although it is known that each method mentioned has its own positive or negative aspects, it is not possible to say that any of them is used alone in architectural design processes. At this point, combining the design process with CAD and AI-supported design tools, as well as traditional manual sketching in architecture, helps develop a diverse and adaptable skill set in design. Integrating digital design tools into the architectural field emphasizes the enduring importance of traditional sketches, especially in terms of inspiration and conceptualization in architectural design, while also updating the design process. This document aims to explore the progression of employing diverse design tools, namely manual sketching, CAD, and AI-driven design tools, throughout the architectural design process. This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of using computational design tools instead of traditional sketching with pen and pencil, aiming to juxtapose their respective benefits and drawbacks. In conclusion, although it is not yet possible to assert the superiority of one method over the other, it is evident that traditional sketching continues to hold significant relevance and effectiveness in the design process despite its long-term use.

A Framework to Enhance Flexible Blended Architectural Design Education

In the last few years, there have been lots of challenges facing the world from pandemics and wars that have raised a series of challenges facing architectural education, which create a challenge for both teachers and students and to which extent they can adapt to the post-digital adaptation period, as well as the future of architectural education in general. Architecture and design environments mainly require face-to-face learning and teaching techniques that depend on the interaction between the student and the teacher, where application and practical education take place. Furthermore, studio-designed spaces provide solidarity, positive energy, and motivation for students. Therefore, activating the distance learning process that affect the architectural education strategy and directed institutions and teachers to the necessity of flexibility and adaptation as a part of the structure of architectural education curricula. this study is a humble try to evaluate the role of blended learning experiences incorporating architectural design programmes that were first applied after the last pandemic. It focuses on the importance of flexible architectural education through the overlap between the traditional studio and the virtual studio to achieve a positive experience for students and staff members. This is done by observing a design studio procedure during a blended learning period and with the help of a questionnaire for a diverse number of students and faculty members on the subject of architectural design at one of the Egyptian universities that host the architecture department. It is conducted for the purpose of flexible handling through the integration of distance learning with architectural design education in relation to the era of pandemics, the digital age, and the like in the future. The research contributes to developing a future framework that enhances the flexibility of architectural design education, supports self-education, and turns the architectural design studio into an opportunity for reproduction and renewal.

Enhancing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Success: The Crucial Role of Architectural Design in Transplant Units and Hematology Departments

Aim: This paper aims to explore the critical role of architectural design in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) procedures, focusing on how various aspects of design influence patient outcomes, staff efficiency, infection control, and overall safety. The study seeks to understand how the physical environment impacts both the immediate and long-term recovery of patients undergoing HSCT and to advocate for design principles that enhance patient and caregiver experiences. Discussion: Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) has emerged as a vital therapeutic modality for a diverse spectrum of hematological disorders and malignancies. As medical and technological advancements continue to evolve, the significance of the physical environment in which HSCT procedures are conducted becomes increasingly evident. This paper delves into how architectural design affects patient well-being, staff efficiency, and infection control, emphasizing the importance of creating environments that support psychological well-being. It examines the impact of design on infection prevention, safety during emergencies, and the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery. The discussion also highlights the role of sustainability and green design principles in minimizing the environmental footprint while promoting patient recovery. Conclusions: The paper concludes that architectural design plays a transformative role in enhancing patient experiences and healthcare outcomes in HSCT settings. It underscores the need for a patient-centric approach to design that integrates wellness-focused elements and advanced technology. The study advocates for a collaborative effort among healthcare institutions, architects, designers, and policymakers to create supportive, efficient, and sustainable healthcare environments. By prioritizing these design considerations, healthcare environments can significantly improve the HSCT journey and contribute to the broader realm of healthcare excellence.