Heuristics for the Knowledge Base of a CAD System in Architecture

We have developed a knowledge base for a CAD system in architecture using an object oriented environment associated to Prolog. The aim of this research was to make the system a true assistant for the architect. The mock-up we have done shows that this approach is possible if the user is able to control easily the reaction of the knowledge base. Our answer to this problem came from a cognitive analysis of architectural knowledge. It is contained in two architectural heuristics: the working modes and the knowledge masks.