Model and implementation of CSCW system for AEC design

The informatization in AEC (architectural engineering construction) design has addressed a critical need for CSCW. In the paper, we explore its characteristics and demand and propose a logical model. The model acts as the key for solving the problems such as controlling cooperation, managing data resource, modeling version, propagating change and so on. By employing the technologies of computer network, CAD, data warehouse and multimedia, we also develop a prototype system named TH-CSCDP which demonstrates the concepts we mentioned. It has been adopted by several main institutes of architecture and engineering design in China to act as a main practical platform for AEC remote collaborate design. The platform also has the capability to organize project-related resource, which include humanity and files. Our system encourages the human resources react by message, email, conversation and virtual workspace which used as a substitution of face to face negotiation. To manage file resource, this system provides modules to model and manage files history so as to understand better and reuse them. It has been proved to be a made-to-order system for CSCW of AEC design.