Szymon Filipowski

The paper presents a usage of civil laser scanning systems in architecture. Nowadays high performance equipment in terms of data acquisition, accuracy and speed is primary dedicated for surveyors. A new method of automated, current inventories of architectural objects is presented by using their characteristic geometrical features.

The aim of the following article is to find the relation between natural and man-made shape (especially in architecture and its surroundings), which, in a more distant perspective, allows to draw up and develop measuring methods for interpretation of real forms by man and move the process onto a computer. A computer programme requires precise tasks and particular data, hence the attempt to systematize the rules, which govern shapes and their reception. The search involves both source rules, such as geometry and mathematics, but also the psychological side of reading shapes by humans. The author, referring to authorities in the field of psychology in architecture, explains the rules of perception, which, even though they concern humans, are being translated to rules that would facilitate the creation of an algorithm, which could read shapes in real space. The article is the beginning of further research of adapting the rules of human perception of outlines, edges and the course of a surface into the possibility of automatized reading of shapes by a computer.

Night illuminations of historical architectural objects have been discussed. In order to simulate light effects on the existing object of the Royal Palace in Łobzów, renderings with a defined illumination were made. The author proves that illumination is not only a matter of engineering, but also an art. The possibility to influence the reception of architecture through illumination and the possibilities to simulate illuminations using computer software are investigated. It tries to answer the question whether the method of work, which requires utilization of precise data, deprives the designer of artistry.