Bridging the Gap - A Design Process study for an 'intelligent' footbridge

Abstract

This paper presents details of a research project that has been undertaken at the University of Technology, Sydney by a multidisciplinary team to develop a framework model that synthesises architectural, engineering and construction processes for intelligent buildings with sustainable performance characteristics. A significance aspect of this project is the bridging of the traditional gap that exists between Architecture, Engineering and Construction professions in Australia. The focus of the first stage of this research has been to undertake design of a complex form footbridge using various software packages to undertake concept design using digital architecture, visualisation and modelling of structural performance of the finished bridge. In order to achieve this synthesis in design, a number of interoperability issues have been identified. The paper presents details of the project and discuss how various design and knowledge creation issues have been addressed, as well as how it is proposed to develop the framework model in the future, for more complex problems.