Autmod3: An Automatic 3D Modularization System

This paper presents the new automatic system called AUTMOD3 for automatic design of modular buildings. The system permits to obtain in an automatic way, and with guided assistance the dimensions and position of the 3D and/or 2D modules that are needed to construct a building starting from the traditional architectural design. The system is based on the well-known CAD system commonly used by designers. Specially developed software modules, menus and libraries are linked to the CAD system. A library of several types of modules assists and guides the designer through the process. It contains structural 3D modules, 2D facade modules, 3D roof modules, etc. The selection of the modules will be carried out responding to several production criteria: minimum number of modules, minimum number of different modules, module size limitation due to pre-fabrication process, etc. Other criteria are also taken into account: module size limitation due to transportation restriction, limitation due to on-site assembly, etc. The proposed modularization system does take into consideration only technical aspects of the designed building. Nevertheless, future developments will include some aesthetic aspects.