The document discusses the need for computer applications in architecture. It describes how computers are used for construction documents, 3D models, presentation preparation, and allow architects to access more information about building projects through software programs. Specific applications discussed include CAD/CADD for drawings, SketchUp and Revit for 3D modeling, Photoshop for rendering and image editing, and Lumion for architectural visualization. The advantages of using computers include increased accuracy, consistency, ability to understand complex designs, and information access.

1. NEED OF COMPUTER
APPLICATIONS IN
ARCHITECTURE
ADITI SHARMA DIPITA GUPTA. OVILEENA DAS. RUDRANI KUNDU SHREYA SAHA
3RD SEM, B. ARCH

2. • Construction Documents
Blueprints, originally drawn by hand, have largely been replaced by computer-
generated construction documents.
Benefits of using CAD include consistency of graphic elements and accuracy of
dimensions.
• 3-D Models
Architects can illustrate either segments or entire projects for the client by
creating a virtual 3-D model on the computer. Rendering options allow
accurate representations of lighting, texture and color.
With the ability to look extremely realistic, clients can often better understand
the building proposals and discuss any problems with the architect before
construction.
• Presentation Preparation
Architects prepare presentations of building proposals for the clients on the
computer.
Additionally, architects utilize graphic design software to facilitate the layout
of each proposal.
• Increased Information
Computer generated designs allow the architects to know more information
about the building projects without having to work out long and complex
problems.
Before the building is constructed, software programs can test structural and
energy systems.
NEED OF COMPUTER IN ARCHIECTURE

3. CAD, or computer-aided design and
drafting (CADD), is technology for
design and technical documentation,
which replaces manual drafting with
an automated process.
 Starting around the mid 1960s, with
the IBM Drafting System, computer-
aided design systems began to provide
more capability than just an ability to
reproduce manual drafting with
electronic drafting, the cost-benefit for
companies to switch to CAD became
apparent.

4.  Eventually, CAD
provided the designer
with the ability to
perform engineering
calculations
 CAD technology is used
in the design of tools
and machinery and in
the drafting and design
of all types of buildings,
from small residential
types (houses) to the
largest commercial and
industrial structures
(hospitals and factories).

5. ADVANTAGES OF
CAD
Increased accuracy and speed - the
major reason behind the utilisation
of computers in this field.
Architects are able to create
presentations, 2-D construction
documents and 3-D models in
addition to typical business
documents on the computer.
Understanding and implementing
complex structures have become
easier and more interesting with
the help of CAD

6. AUTOCAD
AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) program used for 2-D and 3-D
design and drafting. AutoCAD is developed and marketed by Autodesk Inc.
and was one of the first CAD programs that could be executed on personal
computers.
HISTORY
AutoCAD was initially derived from a program called Interact, which was
written in a proprietary language. The first release of the software used only
primitive entities such as polygons, circles, lines, arcs and text to construct
complex objects. Later, it came to support custom objects through a C++
application programming interface.
CURRENT VERSION
The modern version of the software includes a full set of tools for solid
modeling and 3-D. AutoCAD also supports numerous application program
interfaces for automation and customization.

7. FEATURES
Compatibility with other software
ESRI ArcMap 10 permits export as AutoCAD drawing files. Civil 3D permits export as AutoCAD objects and
as LandXML. Third-party file converters exist for specific formats such as Bentley MX GENIO Extension, PISTE
Extension (France), ISYBAU (Germany), OKSTRA and Microdrainage (UK); also, conversion of .pdf files is
feasible; however, the accuracy of the results may be unpredictable or distorted. For example, jagged edges
may appear. Several vendors provide online conversions for free such as Cometdocs.
Language
AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT are available for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese
Simplified, Chinese Traditional, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Czech, Polish and Hungarian (also through
additional language packs). The extent of localization varies from full translation of the product to
documentation only. The AutoCAD command set is localized as a part of the software localization.
Extensions
AutoCAD supports several APIs for customization and automation. These include AutoLISP, Visual
LISP, VBA, .NET and ObjectARX. ObjectARX is a C++ class library, which was also the base for:
• products extending AutoCAD functionality to specific fields
• creating products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Civil 3D
• third-party AutoCAD-based application
There are many AutoCAD plugins (add-on applications) available on the application store Autodesk Exchange
Apps. AutoCAD's DXF, drawing exchange format, allows importing and exporting drawing information.

8. ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
1. Accurate and Reduces Errors. AutoCAD software is not so much suited
for 3D as it has fewer options.
2. Save Time & Money. It can not be used in the complex
designs.
3. Easier Data Transfer. A large amount of memory and speed is
required.
4. Controllable in nature. Consumes large amounts of the
computer processing power.
6. Easier Import/ Export of files. Not easy for first-time users to learn the
software

9. ADOBE PHOTOSHOP
• Adobe Photoshop is a raster graphics editor developed and
published by Adobe Inc. for Windows and macOS.
• It was originally created in 1988 by Thomas and John Knoll.
In architecture, Photoshop can be used for all manner of tasks and in many
architectural practices is the primary image creating and editing tool.
Photoshop can be used at a basic or expert level.
How architects can use photoshop?
In architecture, Photoshop is predominately used for image and
graphic creation, helping to produce architectural renders,
visualisations and diagrams for presentations and client documents.
Photoshop for architectural visualization
• Photoshop can be used to create renderings and visualisations from
just a SketchUp model.
• Photoshop can be used to enhance or hide certain areas of the
rendering. For example the image sharpness could be increased, or
the reflections/shadows made stronger.
• Another area where Photoshop helps with architecture visualisations
is the placement of people within an image.

10. Photoshop floor plans, section and elevation
• Adding materials and texture to create depth and interest to 2D
drawings is particularly relevant to architecture students producing
elevations and sections of their work.
• Photoshop is just about the best software with its layering and
blending modes in achieving this.
Architecture presentation diagrams
• Photoshop is an excellent programme for producing architectural
diagrams that aim to communicate design concepts, thought
processes and site analysis.
• Again its layering system provides a very flexible and simple
workflow that allows for easy annotation of site maps and
photographs.
Photoshop for architectural photography
• Photoshop has the ability to mask off individual areas and use separate adjustments
that can change the appearance of selected elements in your photograph in a non-
destructive manner.
• The mask simply sits over the selected part of the photograph, and when tuned off the
adjustment is removed and the image is back to its original state.

11. SKETCHUP
• Sketchup (formerly Google Sketchup) is a 3D modeling software
that’s easy to use and has an extensive database of user-created
models available for download. You can use it to sketch (or import)
models to assist with all kinds of projects—furniture building, video
game creation, 3D printing, interior design, and whatever else you
can think of.
• What Are the Different Versions of Sketchup?
SketchUp comes in three different versions to suit different needs:
• SketchUp Make: This is a freeware version that you can download
after signing up for a free account. Make is free-to-use for home,
personal and educational use and it begins with a free 30-day trial
of SketchUp Pro.
• SketchUp Pro: This is the premium version of the software. It
contains added functionality like the ability to import and export
different file formats, access to a 2D documentation software,
layout tools, and a Style Builder that lets you create custom edge
styles for models.
• SketchUp Free: The successor to Make, this was released in
November 2017 as a web-based application. To use it, you must
sign up for a free Trimble ID with a valid email address, It may not
have all the features that Pro has, but if you’re just building and
viewing 3D models for personal use (or looking for something that
can print to your 3D printer), this is a great place to start.

12. ADVANTAGES
• SketchUp allows the creation of a large number of 3D models and is
also suitable for large architectural projects (e.g., landscape design).
• Easier to learn, the tool is a good pick for interior design thanks to the
impressive 3D visualization tools. SketchUp has an OpenGL renderer for
creating realistic 3D models.
• SketchUp is known for its superlative customer support. Stuck with a
tech glitch? Just connect with the support team, and you could find a
way out in a jiffy! SketchUp also offers a free version.
• Sketchup also provide a warehouse that has pre-made components
that users can upload into their drawing or even make one for others to
use.
• Many hobby designers and students love the experience SketchUp
provides.
DISADVANTAGES
• Professionals complain that it lacks the ability to talk to other popular
tools like AutoCAD and Canva.
• Complex modeling or sketch customization can become a tall order on
SketchUp.
• Furthermore, it lacks certain vital architectural tools (e.g., house
wizard).
• It doesn’t have useful features like Revit has that helps you understand
and study the architectural properties and materials as it is not
specifically made for architects.
SKETCHUP AND ARCHITECTURE
Sketchup 3D Warehouse

13. REVIT

14. W h a t i s R E V I T ?
■ Autodesk Revit is Building Information
Modeling (BIM) software for Microsoft Windows,
which allows the user to design with parametric
modeling and drafting elements.
■ Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a new
Computer Aided Design (CAD) paradigm that
allows for intelligent, 3D and parametric object-
based design. In this way, Revit provides full bi-
directional associativity. A change anywhere is
a change everywhere, instantly, with no user
interaction to manually update any view.
■ A BIM model contains the building's full life
cycle, from concept to construction to
decommissioning. This is made possible by
Revit's underlying relational database
architecture which its creators call the
parametric change engine.

15. Use and Implementation
Revit can be used as a very powerful collaboration tool between different disciplines in the building design
sphere. The different disciplines that use Revit approach the program from unique perspectives.
Each of these perspectives is focused on completing that discipline's task. Companies that adopt the software
first examine the existing work flow process to determine if such an elaborate collaboration tool is required.
The user can also begin with a "Generic" material. With this, the user can set the
rotation, size, brightness, and intensity of textures, gloss maps (also known as
shinemaps), transparency maps, reflection maps, oblique reflection maps, hole maps,
and bump maps, as well as leaving the map part out and just using the sliders for any
one (or all or none) of the aforementioned features of textures.

16. Benefits-
■ Each component you create in the Revit BIM
software has parametric qualities.This means your
elements are 3D, but you can also modify the
associated 2D planes to change the 3D model.
■ The key here is that the information used to build the
model all comes from a single database.Whenever
you make a change, that database gets updated.This
dynamic modification saves lots of time, plus you
won’t run into the conflicts that arise when you try to
match the information you have across lots of
different drawings.
PARAMETRIC DESIGN

17. LANDSCAPE
DESIGN
■ The Revit BIM software excels when it comes to creating realistic
visualisations. Primarily, you’ll place your focus on all the data you
enter into the model. This results in the creation of models that
incorporate all the data you need to create real-life structures.
■ However, Revit also allows you to do a lot of the little things that can
make your models more appealing to your clients. For example, you
can use it to build landscapes around your models.

18. ENERGY EFFICIENT DESIGN
■ Sustainable building design is crucial in the modern
world. People are much more aware of the effects of
their buildings on the environment. As a result, many
of your clients will want you to prove that your designs
are sustainable. If you can’t, you may find you lose out
on their business, even if the design itself is attractive.
■ This is where the Revit BIM software can help you. It
features several analytical tools, which you can use to
measure the environmental impact of your models. In
particular, the GreenBuild engine will ensure that
sustainability is a core component of your design
process from the moment you start working on the
model.

19. HEAVY FOCUS
ON
STRUCTURAL
DESIGN
■ While Revit’s focus on accuracy is one of its biggest highlights, it does take
away from some other areas of the software. For example, other digital design
software packages tend to create more fleshed out models.This is because
they have access to more general design tools, such as commands and
meshes, that aren’t built into the Revit package.
■ This means Revit is primarily a tool for providing insight into a project, and
getting the prototyping completed accurate. Alternatively, you may be able to
use rendering software to make your Revit models stand out.
DISADVANTAGES

20. DIFFICULT PERSPECTIVE EDITING
■ While the Revit BIM software will prove useful for architects and engineers, interior
designers may find themselves feeling frustrated.This is because Revit isn’t the easiest
software to use if you want to work on building interiors from a different perspective.
■ Revit has a default isometric perspective, which can make it hard to see the planes
that it doesn’t show.Yes, you can rely on the software to make changes automatically.
However, many people prefer to have more flexibility in their digital design software
packages.You may find it difficult to edit from the perspective you want.

21. VRAY
■ VRay is a biased computer-generated imagery rendering software application developed by Bulgarian
Chaos Group that was established in Sofia in 1997.
■ V-Ray is a commercial plug-in for third-party 3D computer graphics software applications and is used for
visualizations and computer graphics in industries such as media, entertainment, film and video game
production, industrial design, product design and architecture.
The desktop 3D applications that are supported by V-Ray are:
Autodesk 3ds Max
Autodesk Revit
Cinema 4D
Maya
Modo
Nuke
Rhinoceros
SketchUp
Unreal
Houdini
Blender

22. Rhinoceros 3D
■ Rhinoceros is used in processes of computer-aided
design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing
(CAM), rapid prototyping, 3D printing and reverse
engineering in industries
including architecture, industrial
design (e.g. automotive design, watercraft
design), product design (e.g. jewelry design) as well as
for multimedia and graphic design.

23. LUMION IS A POWERFUL, EASY, FUN-TO-
USE, EFFECTIVE ARCHITECTURAL
VISUALIZATION TOOL THAT ALLOWS
ANYONE TO BUILD A 3D ENVIRONMENT
AND THEN CREATE BEAUTIFUL IMAGES,
IMPRESSIVE VIDEO PRESENTATIONS,
AND LIVE WALKTHROUGHS. IT IS THE
FASTEST WAY TO PICK UP YOUR 3D
MODEL AND CREATE A SCENE IN A
MATTER OF MINUTES.

24. • Advantages:
1. Saves time
• 2. Easy to edit:
• 3. Decrease in error percentage:
• 4. Decrease design effort
• 5. Code re-use
• 6. Easy to share
• 7. Improved accuracy
Disadvantages :
•Work can be lost because of the sudden
breakdown of computers
•Work is prone to viruses
•Work could be easily “hacked”
•Time taking process to know how to
operate or run the software
•High production or purchasing cost for new
systems
•Time and cost of training the staff which
will work on it
•Need of regular updating of software or
operating systems

25. BIBLIOGRAPHY
■ Http://careertrend.com/about6601447/computers-used-architecture.html
■ https://en.Wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design
■ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoCAD

26. THANK YOU