Inferring Architectural Designs from Physical Sketches: Application to Daylighting Analysis

We present the algorithms and implementation of an interactive system to capture and interpret an architectural design from a collection of small-scale physical elements. The user sketches a proposed design by arranging 3D wall modules and simple markers for windows, materials, and other design features on a table. The color-coded elements are captured by a camera mounted above the scene and recognized using computer vision techniques. The architectural design is automatically inferred from this rough physical sketch and a closed, 3D triangle mesh representation is constructed. We apply the system to architectural daylighting analysis using an interactive global illumination simulation that allows designers to explore alternative designs and new technologies for improving the sustainability of their buildings. The participants may interactively redesign the geometry and materials of the space by manipulating the physical design elements and visualize the revised lighting simulation.