Abstract

This paper presents the results of collaborative research between architects and computer scientists. The objectives of this research effort are to: 1) Develop a Virtual Environment (VE) to be used as a collaborative design and analysis tool (Virtual-SAP); 2) Using this software, study the behavior of Structural elements such as partitions and ceiling systems subjected from low to moderate levels of earthquake excitation.

The immersive VE under development here can provide realistic representations of the building components such that architects, engineers, contractors and students can walk-through and observe the class consequences of design alterations. This paper focuses on the development of Virtual-SAP and its use as a collaborative design tool.