COCSY I: CAM-Oriented CAD System

Abstract

Computers are playing an increasing role in the construction process, especially in the design phase. Designers still use computer-aided design (CAD) systems as drafting tools, mimicking manual drafting to a large extent. Automatic integration of design and construction is not possible without a radical change in this procedure. This paper presents a different approach to design, one that allows automatic extraction of construction-related data from the design database. A CAM (computer-aided manufacture) oriented CAD model is described together with a prototype system that implements the model. The model and the system contribute to improvement of the design process, consequently lowering design costs and improving the design product, increasing compatibility of design and improving communication with construction, etc. The paper describes the first stage of a multistage project; the plans for future development are briefly specified.