RAPPRESENTAZIONI DINAMICHE I Nuovi scenari virtuali navigabili

Recently architects have placed three-dimensional models beside their traditional graphic elaboration of plans, prospects and sections. This paper illustrates the use of these models to represent the existing or projected environments of urban or architectural complexes. 3D models have the advantage of being able to be strongly linked to the fourth dimension, time. The usual method of going beyond the traditional static images is to construct animated dynamic views. These can be passive when the animated progression is fixed beforehand. Or, they can be active when the user is free to move inside a virtual space, to explore it, and interrelate with the simulated environment. The dimension of time is something that enables us to overcome the stasis of 3D perspective views through the creation of animated films. Dynamic simulation can be divided into two different kinds of progressions in the learning process, characterized by different level of interactivity – linear and non-linear progressions. In linear progressions the users get to understand the project by following a pre-set pathway. The users have to adopt a passive attitude towards what they are looking at. Non-linear progressions have a different and more complex narrative structure. The users freely decide where they will walk, what objects they will approach and how the will interact with the objects by using the correct computer tools. Technology that comes from areas not directly related to the area of representation is what gives us the chance to explore a virtual environment randomly in real-life time. As new research tools spread, our need for critical reflection on the topic of the digital media becomes more and more evident. In this way, we will be better able to understand emerging phenomena, to adapt such phenomena to architectural representation, and to assure for ourselves the complete control of our processes of communication and invention.