Environmental Constraint of Human Movement: A New Computer-Aided Approach

Abstract

This session demonstrates a computer program, called MacISOKIN, that reveals where and how the physical environment constrains the movements of inhabitants. An associated research paper explains how ISOKIN measures of environmental constraint are related to the environmental satisfaction of office workers. MacISOKIN was recently developed to facilitate a research project sponsored by Steelcase, Inc. at the University of Michigan.

The demonstration emphasizes how this computer-aided approach can assist designers and planners with the critical design tradeoffs inherent in limited space scenarios. MacISOKIN provides color graphics and numerical reports to identify areas in a floorplan where furnishings or the activities of other inhabitants are a likely source of interference. The “object-oriented” user interface allows the user to quickly change numerous analysis variables. For example, the impact of alternative layouts may be tested by adding, deleting or moving a wall or furnishing. Alternative activity scenarios may be explored by cutting and pasting “body-motion envelopes” from a library of pre-analyzed activities.