Towards More Accurate Space-Use Prediction: A Conceptual Framework of an Agent-Based Space-Use Prediction Simulation System

Size of building has a direct relationship with building cost, energy use and space maintenance cost. Therefore, minimizing building size during a project development is of paramount importance against such wastes. However, incautious reduction of building size may result in crowded space, and therefore harms the functionality despite the fact that building is supposed to satisfactorily support users' activity. A well-balanced design solution is, therefore, needed at an optimum level that minimizes building size in tandem with providing sufficient space to maintain functionality. For such design, architects and engineers need to be informed accurate and reliable space-use information. We present in this paper a conceptual framework of an agent-based space-use prediction simulation system that provides individual level space-use information over time in a building in consideration of project specific user information and activity schedules, space preference, ad beavioural rules. The information will accordingly assist architects and engineers to optimize space of the building as appropriate.