visualizing the building code

A Virtual World Application

Visualizing the Building Code

International Residential Code

• The International Residential Code was first published by the International Code Council in 2003 in an effort to consolidate codes used in the U.S.

2006 edition is 600+ pages

Primarily text and illustrations such as this one

Gettting from Code to House

+ +

=Requires Human Interaction & Understanding

Virtual Worlds allow for 3-D visualization

In a virtual world, we can build a home that shows the code and distributes code requirements

Code translation examples:

This bathroom is located in the code house. Clicking the info button distributes a note card with specific requirements.

Examples of illustrating egress requirements

Work in Progress

• Some other ideas:

Script object for interaction: lights turn on/off, water faucets stream water, etc.

Pull out specific components with more detailed displays. For example a glazing display that demonstrates specific areas in which tempered glass is required.

Code training opportunities

• Some other ideas:

Training code inspectors

Training builders not only on code but on construction methods or installation requirements

Training the public

Ultimate Build Out

• Construct code homes for different codes/countries

• Construct eco-code homes to illustrate differences between them and standard code homes

• Offer space for suppliers to demo/display their products

Benefits? Challenges?

Benefits include:•Easy to access•Cost effective•Easy to change/edit•Allows for collaboration•Easy to export images/illustrations•Open 24/7

Challenges are:•Perception of the interface – the idea that this is a “game”•Not enough people yet in virtual worlds to allow for faster implementation

Contact Information

• The code house is located on Public Works Island in Second Life

Second Life Avatars:Pam Renoir (Pam Renoir)Brand Woodin (Martin Brown)

E-mail: pwg@publicworksgroup.comWebsite: www.publicworksgroup.comTwitter: pbroviak